Land O’Lakes Elder Law Attorney
After assessing recent data, the US Census Bureau predicts that the number of individuals 65 years and older will double over the next few decades. By 2060, this age group will hit 95 million people and rise from 16 to 23 percent of the total US population. As a result, Floridians of all ages will probably face elder law issues at some point in the coming years. From Medicare/Medicaid planning and long-term care to estate planning and probate, you probably have questions about how to leverage elder law concepts to achieve your goals as you grow older.
At The Law Office of Laurie R. Chane, elder law is a core practice area, so we are dedicated to helping you understand the many legal topics that fall under this umbrella. Please contact us to set up a consultation with a Land O’Lakes elder law attorney who can assess your situation and point out opportunities for planning. Some general information may also be helpful.
Elder Law Issues as You Grow Older
Even if you do not view them as being problems, there are certain matters that will require your attention in different ways as you age. One key issue will be Medicare/Medicaid coverage for health-related expenditures and medical care, since you may be eligible for benefits. Medicaid does pay for nursing home costs if you are eligible because your assets and income fall below a certain level. You may need to consider strategies to “spend down” your estate legally, which may require creative planning to transfer or otherwise protect assets. Medicaid regulations impose serious penalties if you attempt improper transfers solely to qualify for benefits.
Another key issue for many aging seniors is planning for incapacity, as individuals are living longer and are more likely to suffer memory loss or dementia. When you are not capable of making decisions regarding your health care and finances, you must consider ways to have someone else handle your affairs. With proper planning, you can avoid the other alternative for handling incapacity: Going through a court case to have a guardian appointed to act on your behalf. The guardianship process can be time-consuming and costly.
Assistance from a Skilled Land O’Lakes Elder Law Attorney
The Law Office of Laurie R. Chane can counsel you on these and many other elder law considerations, including:
- Asset protection for tax purposes and long-term care planning;
- Wills, trusts, and other estate planning options;
- Designation of Health Care Surrogate, advance directives, and powers of attorney;
- Assessing your needs related to different levels of assisted living care;
- Guardianship; and
- Elder abuse and exploitation.
You Can Rely on a Land O’Lakes Elder Law Attorney for Legal Help
If you would like more information about elder law issues in Florida, please contact The Law Office of Laurie R. Chane. You can call 352-567-0055 or fill out an online form to schedule a consultation with a member of our team. Our elderly law attorneys assist clients throughout Pasco County, so we can advise you on the relevant concepts.
