Category Archives: Elder & Special Needs
Medicaid Strategies: Personal Services Contracts
For many Florida families, caring for an aging parent begins long before nursing home care becomes necessary. Adult children often spend months or even years helping with grocery shopping, transportation, medication management, meal preparation, housekeeping, and personal care. While these services are frequently provided out of love, they also represent real work that would… Read More »
Hurricane Preparedness for Florida Seniors: Legal and Care Planning Guide
Hurricane season is part of life in Florida, and hurricane preparedness for Florida seniors is often overlooked. For older adults, and for the adult children who love them, planning ahead can mean the difference between a stressful scramble and a safe, orderly response. This guide walks through the essential steps families in Florida can… Read More »
How to Help Seniors Protect Their Assets
The need for long-term care is an inevitable reality for many individuals, but the cost can be overwhelming for families. Nursing homes, assisted living facilities, and extended in-home care services can quickly drain a lifetime of savings. For seniors who need ongoing care, Medicaid is often the only realistic way to cover these expenses…. Read More »
Planning for the SSI Benefit
Understanding SSI Eligibility and Asset Limits To qualify for Supplemental Security Income (SSI), a recipient’s total countable assets or “resources” cannot exceed $2,000. Some resources are excluded from this limit, such as a primary home, a vehicle of limited value, certain personal property, or a bank account set aside for burial expenses. When a… Read More »
Planning for the Adult Disabled Child
Transitioning to Adulthood: SSI and Medicaid John, age 17, has autism and lives with his parents. His mother is his full-time caregiver, but due to his father’s high income, John is not eligible for Supplemental Security Income (SSI) as a minor. However, when John turns 18, only his own income and resources are considered… Read More »
Suggested Questions to Ask the Doctor on Your Behalf or for Someone You Represent
Making informed health care decisions, whether for yourself or a loved one, requires asking the right questions and understanding the answers. The following guide will help you gather essential information from medical professionals, so you can confidently navigate treatment options and advocate for the best possible care. Questions to Ask About Medical Tests Why… Read More »
Can I Stay on Medicaid if I Sell My Home?
For many Florida seniors, Medicaid is a crucial resource for covering healthcare costs, in particular the costs of long-term care. If you’re considering selling your home, you might be wondering how this action will impact your Medicaid eligibility. The answer depends on several factors, including how the sale proceeds are handled and whether the… Read More »
What Is the “Lookback Rule” and How Does It Affect Planning Strategy to Protect Assets and Expedite Medicaid Eligibility?
When planning for long-term care, one of the most critical aspects to understand is the Medicaid Lookback Rule. This rule can significantly impact how assets are protected and how quickly one can become eligible for Florida Medicaid. Conversely, failing to abide by the rule can set your eligibility back by years. Below we offer… Read More »
What Is the Relationship Between Guardianship and Medicaid in Florida?
When planning for the future, it’s essential to understand the intricate relationship between guardianship and Medicaid. Both legal systems could end up playing critical roles in ensuring the well-being and financial stability of individuals who may not be able to care for themselves due to age, disability, or illness. Below we delve into the… Read More »
What Does It Mean to Be a Certified Elder Law Attorney?
If you are caring for an elder adult or a person with special needs, or if you yourself are a senior or person with special needs, getting quality legal support from an attorney you can trust is probably at the top of your list as you navigate the multitude of vital legal issues you… Read More »