Alzheimer’s is a disease that affects everybody it touches—husbands, wives, children and grandchildren—they all bear witness to their loved one’s slow demise. Sadly, emotional stress is not the only stress that accompanies Alzheimer’s disease; those loved ones serving as caretakers may carry a huge amount of financial stress as well. The cost of caring for an Alzheimer’s patient can run anywhere from $64 a day to over a $100,000 a year, and because Alzheimer’s disease can be such a long-lasting disease (a person can suffer from Alzheimer’s for up to 20 years) the costs of care can end up being…
I recently attended a seminar on the Transitions in Care: Perspectives for Clinicians and Caregivers. The programme examined one of the most critical topics in healthcare today and its impcat on idividuals, care providers and the health care system as a whole. As an elder law attorney it's important for me to remain abreast of new research findings and best practices, to examine the future care of delivery, and to share the best practices for those navigating thro the health care system.
David Wingate, Elder Law Attorney of the Elder Law Office of David Wingate presented to social workers, home help agencies and others, a seminar entitled Understanding MOLST.
“Caregiving Contracts” are legal documents between your aging parent and a family member that spells out in very specific details the kinds of services and tasks the caregiver will provide, over what course of time and the rate of pay for the services performed by the caregiver. If you choose this option, I highly recommend using an elder law lawyer to draft up the contract and that other family members, especially siblings, should be aware of what is being agreed upon. To prevent conflicts, this type of arrangement should be transparent to all family stakeholders invested in your parent’s…
The common symptoms of mild stage Alzheimer’s disease are: Having trouble following multi-step processes i.e. cooking recipe. Getting lost, even in places where they are familiar. Having trouble performing household chores i.e. cleaning, laundry, etc. Avoiding social situations or having trouble remembering names, appointments or recent events. You can help your aging parents and/or loved one by taking the following steps: manage your loved one’s money to remove the stress and anxiety of bill paying etc. write reminders to your loved one in the same place i.e. calendar or notepad keep a list, near the telephone, of the names and…
As you grow older, your legal needs increase dramatically. You need to think about protecting your aging parents, your family, securing your assets for the future, and planning for your own future retirement and ongoing needs. With all these things to consider, you need a life care planning lawyer, not just an elder law attorney, who has the knowledge and experience to guide you through this confusing aging maze. With some basic tips, you can find an excellent life care planning lawyer that will give you peace of mind through sound advice. All life care or elder law attorneys are…
Most lawyers do not concentrate only elder care issues. Asking the right questions at a consultation can help you choose the right elder care attorney for your needs. What Elder Care Services Does The Firm Provide? Many law firms state they handle elder care cases. However, most firms do not have lawyers or staff who specifically work in the needs of the elderly. Therefore, ask about the firm's attorney and staff, what specifically do they do, Medicaid, Asset Protection, Life Care Planning, Care Advocacy, Veterans Benefits? The State of Maryland and the Federal Government has numerous laws affecting the elderly….
If you are dealing with some of the thorny family issues that often arise as loved ones age – such as disputes over inheritances, where an elderly parent may live, what type of care may be necessary, and who will pay for it – you are not alone. And if you think your family could use a “professional referee,” it may be time to consider consulting an “elder mediator.” According to a recent Wall Street Journal article, elder mediators say their profession is growing as baby boomers seek help with their aging parents. “Our clients tend to be well-educated, successful…
The Life Care Plan includes the services of an elder care attorney and an elder care coordinator, who work together, to enhance your, your loved one, or family member’s quality of life.
The VA is now requesting documentation of all assets transfered prior to the date of a veteran’s application to show that all of these rights have been relinquished.
Frederick, MD 
301-663-9230
