I practice Elder Law, which, in general, means that I assist elderly and/or disabled people find the help and the resources to live as independently as possible, with respect and dignity. Long-term care can be devastating to a person’s lifestyle, finances and security. It drastically alters or completely eliminates the three principal retirement dreams of elderly Americans, which are:
1. Remaining independent in the home without intervention from others
2. Maintaining good health and receiving adequate health care
3. Having enough money for everyday needs and not outliving assets and income
Have you considered the following:
What do you want your children or friends to do on your behalf?
When it comes time for them to help, what if you can't say what you want because of a physical or mental disability? This is where a written estate plan comes into effect.
Do you have a financial plan or long term care insurance? Retirement savings can disappear quickly when used for care services.
What types of care services and facilities are available and what are the costs?
What will government programs pay for and how do you qualify?
When you make directives, assignments and arrangements in advance of needing elder care, then everyone involved can follow the prearranged care plan. In a best-case scenario, an individual has made financial, legal and personal long term care plans years before. Without such planning, families often find themselves in crisis where time, money and lifestyle are sacrificed, and caregivers suffer both emotionally and medically themselves.
There are a lot of new services and programs available to draw from, and it’s my pleasure to work with families and assist them in navigating the maze of pressing health care and financial needs.
Sincerely,
Denise Kent
“Helping people, one family at a time.”
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