Elder Law Insights
Estate Planning 101: Wills & Trusts
Monday, 23 April 2012 12:55
As we age, one of the uncomfortable truths we have to face is that at some point we may not be able to independently manage our own affairs. Thinking about losing control of our assets and health care decisions isn't ever easy, but by planning ahead, we can ensure that everything is managed according to our wishes. Through an Estate Plan, you can line up all the documents necessary to ensure that your wishes are fulfilled both during your lifetime and after your death. A custom-fitted Estate Plan benefits not only you, but also your loved ones, by protecting your assets and making sure your personal and financial goals are met.
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Recent controversy about the conservatorship of Nashville songwriter Danny Tate may leave some caregivers cringing at the very mention of the word "conservator." Families of elders for whom conservatorship has been petitioned may fear that, like Tate, their loved one will be subjected to a kind of "civil death," being suddenly stripped of all rights without due cause. But is Tate's situation the norm in conservatorship or a rare exception to the rule?
As an elder loved one ages, one of the best ways to ensure that they receive the full care and support they need is to get all their caregivers on the same page. In an ideal situation, the whole family works together to decide on a solid care plan and to delegate responsibilities. But often the reality is far from ideal. Families are complicated, and many times they approach the challenges of elder care from different perspectives and with different opinions about what choices should be made. Tension runs high, and the results can be disastrous for both family relationships and the elder who needs care.
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No one likes to think about the possibility of their own disability or the disability of a loved one. However, as we'll see below, the statistics are clear that we should all plan for at least a temporary disability. This blog entry examines the eye-opening statistics surrounding disability and some of the common disability planning options. Disability planning is one area where we can give each and every person and family we work with great comfort in knowing that, if the day comes for themselves or a loved one, they will be prepared.