When it comes to caring for an elderly parent, spouse, or other loved one, you know how difficult it can be to keep up with the costs of healthcare, housing, and financial security, not to mention long-term care. An elder care attorney is well-versed in the intricacies of aging, so you can spend your time with your loved one instead of worrying about these difficulties.
Check out the following sections to learn more about what a South jersey elder care attorney can do for you and see whether you can benefit from their services.
The benefits of dealing with an elder care law attorney
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Making a long-term care strategy a priority
Families are often divided on the type of care they want for their parents. An elder care attorney can objectively assess a long-term strategy without being influenced by personal feelings. There are instances when staying at home isn’t the greatest option for a parent. First and foremost, the lawyer must identify ways to be implemented to ensure that the elderly loved one is protected.
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Assuring that a long-term power of attorney has been established
Alzheimer’s disease or another kind of dementia can make it difficult for a loved one to make decisions about their care. It is possible to have a durable power of attorney prepared by an elder law attorney with you and your loved one. Even if your loved one becomes disabled, an appointed person can make medical or financial choices on their behalf. It’s possible that an elder lawyer can start guardianship proceedings for you or another family member if your loved one became incompetent and did not create a durable power of attorney.
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Application for veterans benefits
Aid and Attendance, a long-term care benefit for veterans, may be overlooked by many veterans. An elder care attorney can assist you in applying for this benefit or obtaining information about other government programs and advantages.
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Protecting assets from financial exploitation
To avoid financial exploitation, the assistance of an elder law attorney might be invaluable. Unpleasant neighbors and adult children may try to gain access to money accounts when parents are unable to work, or their health deteriorates.
Protecting their assets against dishonest predators is a must for any business. In order to curb criminal conduct or fraud, an elder law attorney may be able to report it or counsel the children.
Living trusts can also be set up.
If your loved one wants to leave their money to family members or charities they care about, it’s understandable. Probate can be a time-consuming process if you don’t have an estate plan in place when a loved one passes away. As part of a living trust, you can give your loved ones control over their assets even after they’ve passed away. You’ll need an elder law attorney to help you through the procedure of setting up a living trust in your state.
