Our Clearwater Elder Law Attorney Identifies Three Areas Older Adults Need To Address

The end of the year is fast approaching, and the upcoming holiday season makes time go even quicker. However, before you begin holiday preparations and make plans with family, friends, and loved ones, there are likely some practical matters that should be dealt with first, especially if you are an older adult in Pinellas County.

William Rambaum has over 40 years of experience helping older adults in our community protect themselves, their independence, and their assets. Our board-certified Clearwater elder law attorney identifies important areas to address before the holiday season.

Important Matters To Address As An Older Adult In Clearwater

Older adults in Clearwater live busy, active lives. It is easy to get so busy that you either forget or put off attending to important matters that impact your future.

Our board-certified Clearwater elder law attorney guides older adults in our community, identifying individual needs and putting the appropriate legal documents in place. If you have not already done so, areas to address before the busy holiday season include:

1. Health and Safety Assessments

The end of the year is a good time to undergo free health screenings and medical tests, which are often more affordable as deductibles are met. Pay attention to mental health as well. The National Institutes of Health warns that approximately one in every five older adults struggles with depression or other mental health disorders. Help is available throughout our community.

Protecting your financial health, now and throughout the holiday season, is also a top priority. The Federal Bureau of Investigation warns that millions of older adults are targeted by scammers each year. Our Clearwater elder law attorney offers asset protection strategies to thwart their efforts.

2. Preparing for Your Future

Is the home you currently live in going to be suitable for you as you age? Does it offer close contact with friends or family, who may be able to help with transportation and other needs, if required? Unfortunately, even if your home is easy to navigate and you have plenty of support, medical or other needs may necessitate additional care.

Paying out-of-pocket for long-term care can quickly deplete all your assets. Creating a trust now can help meet Medicaid eligibility requirements and offset future visiting nurses, nursing homes, or other costs.

3. Putting Estate Planning Documents In Place

Estate planning for older adults in Clearwater helps protect your assets and your independence. This includes creating a will, advance directives that dictate your medical preference regarding care, and powers of attorney, which ensures assets are appropriately managed if you are incapacitated and can help prevent guardianship.

Schedule A Consultation Today With Our Board-Certified Clearwater Elder Law Attorney

Clearwater elder law attorney William Rambaum is board-certified by the Florida Bar and the National Elder Law Foundation. With over 40 years of experience, he is uniquely qualified to provide the trusted legal guidance and representation older adults need. To protect yourself, your independence, and your assets, contact our office and schedule a consultation today.

Sources:

pmc.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/articles/PMC3822658/

fbi.gov/news/stories/elder-fraud-in-focus

medicaid.gov/medicaid/eligibility-policy/index.html