ELDER LAW
Elder law is designed to help senior citizens handle personal and financial affairs to their satisfaction. At times, close friends or family members may have to assist their elderly loved ones in legally preparing for their golden years. At Penny, Botticello, & O'Brien, we can help you accomplish this important goal. Our attorneys offer the following related services:
•Application for government benefits. Many different types of financial assistance are available for the elderly through federal and state government. Social Security, Supplemental Security Income, and energy assistance programs to help seniors pay for utilities are just a few options. However, the applications for these benefits can be complex, and at times, overwhelming. Our law firm can help you decide which, if any, of these applications to pursue and can guide you through their completion.
•Assistance obtaining health insurance. Medicare is an insurance program for those age 65 and older, while Medicaid assists low-income individuals in receiving necessary health care. As the elderly are more likely to face chronic and costly illnesses than the younger generation, obtaining one or more of these insurances for your loved one is of paramount importance.
•Discussion of housing options. At times, a home health aide or occasional visiting nurse is all that is needed to keep your loved one living safely at home. If finances are a consideration, renters may even be able to obtain Section 8 vouchers for assistance in paying their landlords. However, overwhelming medical or financial issues may necessitate seeking the personal attention available in a nursing home, a choice that is becoming more and more common for many elders.
•Formation of living wills and a durable power of attorney. A living will allows your loved one to make health care decisions, or assign a proxy to do so, in the event that he or she becomes incapacitated. A durable power of attorney, on the other hand, typically specifies someone to handle financial decisions for the elder. Both are important documents that elder law firms can draw up for you.
•Crafting of an estate plan. An estate plan can encompass making a legal will, forming living or irrevocable trusts and planning for the dispersal of assets after death. It is important to have a well-made plan in place in the event that your loved one passes in order to maximize asset retention, as well as minimize any taxes due.
