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They not only help write wills, they also support families by navigating long-term care plans, Medicare and Medicaid planning, Social Security benefits and more, the National Academy of Elder Law Attorneys says.
NAELA says some of the key services an elder care attorney offers include:
• Drafting wills, trusts, power of attorney documents and developing strategies to preserve assets.
• Understanding eligibility requirements and health care benefits for long-term care.
• Advising families on assisted
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living, nursing home care and home-based care options.
• Helping families establish legal guardianship.
• Identifying and preventing financial exploitation and abuse.
• Assisting with disability benefits and income support.
FINDING AN ELDER CARE ATTORNEY
NAELA has a lawyer search on its website to help families find representation. A NAELA member attorney, the organization says, understands elder law and is committed to providing effective,
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ethical legal representation. They have specialized training in elder law and actively participate in continuing education programs. They also agree to uphold NAELA’ s Aspirational Standards when navigating difficult ethical issues.
You can also use your state’ s bar association or Council on Aging to find an attorney, and some states even have free legal helplines for older people needing legal help.
WHEN TO HIRE AN ELDER CARE ATTORNEY Don’ t wait for a crisis to establish a relationship with an elder care
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attorney. Powers of attorney and other health care directives must be made while the person still has the capacity to sign documents.
An elder care attorney can also help protect the person’ s assets before assisted living care or nursing home care before permanent penalties apply. They can also fill in the blanks and help spot any signs of elder abuse or exploitation. The attorneys can also make sure your plan stays up to date.
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