Do you or a loved one need an attorney who specializes in Elder Law?

You may if you are dealing with issues regarding real estate, gift or
estate taxes, trusts, wills, powers of attorney documents, Medicare, Medicaid, supple-mental or long-term care insurance, assisted living centers, nursing homes or in-home care. These issues can be confusing and overwhelming to you and your family, especially if you become less able to manage your own affairs.

These attorneys are trained to review and pull together information from a variety of sources to put together an action plan. Most elder law attorneys bring together a team that might include the older adult's
doctor(s), a social worker, a geriatric case manager, an accountant, financial planner and insurance agent. It all depends on the situation and your and your family's goals.

Elder law attorneys need to know about all the government programs for seniors, various types of care giving options for seniors, as well as financial management. Just as doctors are certified in specialties, elder law attorneys should meet requirements as a Certified Elder Law Attorney (CELA), which includes a qualifying exam, practicing elder law for at least five years and a review by a panel of peers.

Years ago, we didn’t have a need for specialized attorneys (or doctors) because people did not live as long!

According to a Work and Family Life newsletter article written by elder law attorney Daniel Fish, there are more than 4 million Americans age 85 or older; and one of the fastest growing groups is people in their 90’s. While some of these folks enjoy relatively good health and are somewhat independent, many are not. Growing old in America can be expensive. An elder law attorney for yourself or your loved one may help you put together a plan with short-term and long-term benefits.