A loved one’s death is a traumatic event, regardless of the death being expected or sudden. We all need a period to grieve and adjust to the loss. It’s difficult to consider the legal, financial and business elements, which is why estate planning is so important. One role of estate planning is deciding who receives your property and assets after you are no longer here. This is known as the transfer of property after death. It can also involve designating a guardian for young children as well … [Read more...] about The Transfer of Property After Death
The Long Term Care Crisis in Massachusetts
Fifteen years ago, there were around 40 long term care providers that offered these types of insurance policies in Massachusetts. Today, there are less than twelve. Genworth is the latest provider of long-term care insurance that has opted to cease offering these types of policies in the state. Unfortunately, it was also the largest insurer in the state. Massachusetts consumers in search of this type of insurance with the goal of helping to pay for the rising prices for nursing homes and elder … [Read more...] about The Long Term Care Crisis in Massachusetts
State of AL Opens Elder Abuse Investigation for Harper Lee
The moment it was announced renowned author Harper Lee had decided to publish another work, the literary community cheered. Almost simultaneously, questions about her ability to make such a decision began surfacing. For fans, we all hoped it wasn’t true. We love Harper Lee. We grew up on Harper Lee, despite her having published just one award winning work, To Kill a Mockingbird. The fact that she was an introvert and loathed the public eye was only endearing to her fans. Now, though, those … [Read more...] about State of AL Opens Elder Abuse Investigation for Harper Lee
Have the Dutch Figured Out Aging in Place?
Have you ever wondered to yourself what life looks like once the kids are raised, out of the house and raising families of their own; or what you’ll be doing years after retirement? Many people say they’re not quite sure that should look like; no one knows, after all, how long they’ll live and who they might outlive. It’s overwhelming at times, but one country has a solution that is the epitome of “win –win”. The question is, could aging in place look like this in the US at some point? Living … [Read more...] about Have the Dutch Figured Out Aging in Place?
Telehealth Enhancement Act of 2013
When you step away from all of the tremendous advances in medicine over the past 50 years, the perspective reveals the contributions by the world’s most brilliant minds; it’s amazing to realize we’re living in an incredible time in history. These days, we have telehealth, remote monitoring and telemedicine to guide the way in all things related to elder care. Already, technology has made it possible for these advances to really play a significant role in the health and well-being of our loved … [Read more...] about Telehealth Enhancement Act of 2013
Supplemental Security Income
Did you know that there are more than 8 million Americans over the age of 65 who are disabled and rely on Social Security for survival? It’s true. Many may recall President Nixon signing into law the Supplemental Security law in 1972. A lot has changed since then. The program is now 43 years old and some say it’s long overdue for an overhaul.It’s alarming to realize how many of those who receive these benefits but who are also living in deep poverty. There are more than 50 national organizations … [Read more...] about Supplemental Security Income
Casey Kasem a Victim of Elder Abuse?
The peculiar final months of Casey Kasem’s life was like something out of a 1980s hair band “love gone wrong” ballad. Now, though, there are accusations that he may have been a victim of elder abuse. Casey Kasem's daughter Kerri Kasem and other family members held a press conference at a courthouse in Los Angeles with a request for the Los Angeles Police Department to arrest Kasem's widow Jean Kasem. The charges they claim are startling. They say the widow removed Kasem, along with his … [Read more...] about Casey Kasem a Victim of Elder Abuse?
Fact or Fiction: Understanding Medicaid Guidelines
The Medicaid qualification process often gets a bad rap. It’s true that there’s a certain amount of tedious detail work that goes into qualifying, but understanding Medicaid guidelines before you begin that journey can ensure it’s a smoother process and with the help of your elder law attorney, you’re less likely to face the appeals process. This week, we explore a few of those misconceptions. Going Broke for Medicaid This is often the most misunderstood aspect for seniors wishing to apply … [Read more...] about Fact or Fiction: Understanding Medicaid Guidelines
Depression and Suicide in the Elderly
Elderly suicide is a very serious – and growing - problem. The elderly, those age 65 and older, comprise about 13% of the U.S. population, yet they account for over 18% of all suicides. This, according to the American Association for Marriage and Family Therapy, is a trend that could be on the rise as more boomers begin to enter retirement. Suicide in the Elderly That’s a powerful statement and heartbreaking, too. The most common cause for elderly suicide is the same as it is in the total … [Read more...] about Depression and Suicide in the Elderly
What is Medicaid Estate Recovery?
Medicaid estate recovery is front and center these days. The reasons why are just as important as the rule itself. What does it mean for Medicaid recipients and what can they do to protect themselves are the questions everyone is asking. This week, we explore what this clause in Medicaid agreements really means. This particular Medicaid element is back in the news for the same reasons anything else associated with the American healthcare sector hits the evening news: politics. There … [Read more...] about What is Medicaid Estate Recovery?
