How to protect ourselves from the cost of healthcare as we age really does require legal advice. People that I know made a decision to live in community as a multi-family household so they could help their parents. They made this decision in good faith with the best of intentions. Between the time they made the decision, started legal paperwork on the house they will modify … [Read more...]
When Guardianship is the Only Alternative, How Does It Work?
One family's story of financial elder abuse. You have worked with an estate planning attorney to have all your loved one’s legal documents complete: Last Will & Testament, Financial Power of Attorney and Healthcare Directive. You have all the provisions in place in the event your loved one becomes incapacitated with the prognosis of death. Thank heavens that was done, because … [Read more...]
The Importance of End of Life Planning as an Elder Orphan
Sponsored Blog Post Elder Orphans: "An older person who is socially or physically isolated, without an available family member or caregiver to help them manage aging." A recent study from the University of Michigan found that an estimated 22% of all American over 65-years-old are at a significant risk of becoming an elder orphan. This is mainly due to the amount of people … [Read more...]
VA Aid and Attendance: Money That Can Help Your Veteran or Their Spouse
Understanding the VA Aid and Attendance Benefit. Deb's Note: Mom is benefiting from VA Aid and Attendance Benefits as the widow of a veteran. This money has made a huge difference in being able to keep her at home. She qualifies under several of the criteria outlined below: spouse of a veteran, requires aid to perform several activities of daily living and she is legally … [Read more...]
The Pitfalls of Hiring a Caregiver Directly (Private Pay)
Why We Decided to Use an Agency Keeping mom at home is the core of our care plan. After dad died, I struggled with how to make that happen safely and affordably. Mom needs 24/7 live in help, but I needed to keep working. (Jump to Lessons Learned) Concerned about finances, I figured hiring someone directly (private pay) would be less expensive. And it can be. What I didn’t … [Read more...]