By Brad & Dara Trout

Did you know that May was Elder Law month?

The National Academy of Elder Law Attorneys (NAELA) sponsors this recognition. NAELA is not only a trade association for elder law attorneys but also provides advocacy and education for consumers regarding all matters of elder law.

Why do families and seniors contact attorneys?

Legal issues faced by seniors are often complex. And they are often dealt with at a time in life when financial resources need to be protected. Likewise, quality of life issues become very important as people face failing health.

Accordingly, the top reasons seniors engage lawyers include:

• Wills, Living Wills, and Powers of Attorney
• Estate Planning and Trusts
• Social Security, Medicare and Medicaid Applications and Appeals
• Elder Abuse/Fraud Recovery
• Long Term Care Planning

Did you know that a recent poll found that only 16.2% of Pennsylvanians have a Living Will (also known as an Advance Health Care Directive)? Yet this is one of the least expensive legal tools to prepare and can bring an incredible amount of peace of mind to a senior!

In our home care business, we frequently encounter seniors at a time in life when they have just faced a medical crisis. And, yet, when we ask if they have discussed their wishes with their families and doctors, the most common answer is no.

While facing our own mortality is always a difficult conversation for any of us, we strongly recommend doing so before the crisis. Imagine the peace of mind that can bring to the whole family, clearly knowing the wishes of your family member!

Can I get help paying for legal services?

In Chester County, there are programs designed to help low-income seniors access attorney services. The Chester County Bar Association’s (CCBA) website explains how to access those programs.

How do I find the right lawyer?

The CCBA, NAELA, and The National Elder Law Foundation all offer “lawyer finders” on their web sites.

For more information or help with any of your senior home care needs, contact Dara or Brad Trout at (610) 590-4888 or via email at daratrout@heart4helpingseniors.com. You can also visit Seniors Helping Seniors blog on senior care topics on the web at www.seniorcareexton.com/blog