5 Ways an Elder Law Attorney Can Help You

By Kirk Brechbiel

As you start to get older, there are lots of details -- from paying for potential care to creating wills—that can get confusing for you and your family. Hiring an elder law attorney may help.

Elder law issues usually go beyond the typical estate-planning issues. Lawyers who focus on this area can help deal with long-term care planning, public benefit issues, advance health care planning, guardianship/ conservatorship issues, special-needs planning, etc.

There are a number of benefits to hiring an elder law attorney. Here are five.

Provide Skillful Planning

Elder law attorneys can inform clients about the need to think and plan for long-term care needs. A good understanding of the nature of the continuum of care from in-home care to independent living to nursing homes is vital.

Decode the Law

Hiring a professional who understands the language of the law can help you or your loved one move forward in the right direction. 

Mediate Impartially

A lawyer can act as a mediator and problem-solver. Should mom go into a nursing home or assisted living? Arguments about such important issues can quickly escalate and result in resentment among the family and stalled progress in implementing needed care. 

Navigate Available Benefits

Elder law attorneys are well-versed in the current state of public benefits that may pay for long-term care and senior housing such as Medicare, Medicaid and Veterans benefits. 

Recruit Outside Sources

It may be useful to have the assistance of someone who is used to appearing before administrative agencies and obtaining public assistance. Elder law attorneys frequently collaborate with other specialists involved in providing services to the elderly. 

You can ensure that you and your loved ones are prepared for the unpredictable by consulting an elder law attorney as you plan for the future. 

For more tips for seniors, go to Ella Home Care at www.ellahc.com. Kirk Brechbiel, Owner of Ella Home Care a home-care agency serving Cumberland and Northern York Counties.