Elder Law is defined as those legal issues relating to the
I’m a Baby Boomer. Like many of us I’ve watched my father and Carolyn’s mother suffer painful deaths. Deaths that were painful not only physically but also mentally and emotionally. Deaths that were painful not only for themselves, but also for their family members and loved ones. Some of the pain I have witnessed could have been avoided by proper planning. As a result I have started researching what is referred to as Elder Law.

Elder Law is defined as those legal issues relating to the long term care planning and funding for elderly individuals and their families. These issues include the Federal programs of Medicaid, Social Security, and Medicare along with many other areas affecting the elderly. These may include long-term care insurance, wills, asset transfers, life estates, trusts, living wills and powers of attorney.

There are a myriad of Federal and state laws and regulations that may pose a financial minefield for the unwary that try to access government programs for themselves or a loved one. Some requirements are well known. You must be 65 to qualify for full Social Security. You must be 65 or on disability to qualify for the national health insurance program Medicare. However, there are stringent requirements for the Medicaid program.

Pitfalls may be encountered as you deal with these agencies. If you fail to list certain asset transfers you could be forced to refund all benefits. A simple gift of property may result in the loss of government benefits. The lack of a power of attorney may leave the wrong person in charge of the finances when their mental health fails. I have seen firsthand the problems and lack of care when money intended for the elderly is siphoned off for other uses. The breadth and depth of greed is impossible to understand until you have seen it in a family member.

Careful financial and legal planning is a necessity is the elderly are to be able to maintain their quality of life. Nursing home and medical costs are increasing at a dramatic rate. Tight budgets are forcing cutbacks in federal and state programs. The advice of an elder care attorney is vital in order to preserve assets, access all available programs, and insure proper care. All of this at a time when the person may not be able to make their wishes known.

An elder care attorney is in the best position to provide the guidance needed to prepare for those tough decisions. Unfortunately, many of the elderly and their families have failed to seek legal assistance because of the cost. Now there is a reasonable and cost effective way to access the advice of an elder care attorney.

The American Bar Association says: "Americans have come to view legal assistance as a necessity. The best way for the majority of Americans to be able to assure themselves of legal assistance when they need it... is through a prepaid legal plan." To find out more visit:

http://www.prepaidlegal.com/info/carolynpatterson

About the Author

Wayne Patterson is the author of "Solidgoldmonthly" home business newsletter. Home business news and views that you can use. No scams allowed! Subscribe now to receive FREE book of eBay Marketing Secrets, sold on other sites for $27.00.