A son tells of life situations that force a nursing home choice on a family

I would like to share another story from the New York Times series on compulsory consumer arbitration. In this case, Elizabeth Barrow, an active 100 year old resident was killed by her roommate. The roommate had a history of violent confrontation, the most recent involved her. The resident was charged with murder but was found…

An Annuity Is an Investment Before I get into my opinion let’s first establish an understanding. When I refer to Veterans benefits, I am referring to the special improved pension that most folks know by “VA Aid and Attendance.” Let’s also understand that annuities are investments and as such have a place in one’s investment…

Over the 22 plus years I have been in elder law I have too often received the call from the family “Dad died last night.” He went to a nursing home after a hospitalization and they planned he would return home after a few weeks. But, it didn’t happen. It is true, seriously ill elders…

Many healthy seniors choose a low monthly payment for a Medicare Advantage plan. But when a health emergency strikes -say a broken hip that requires post surgery rehab – the co-pays and deductibles can be horrific! But, you can change your plan without waiting for the end of year open enrollment. A little known provision…

On March 6, 2024 Representative Jan Schakowsky reintroduced the “Stop Unfair Medicaid Recoveries Act.” That means if someone in your family who is age 55 and over and receives Medicaid long term care services, when they die their “estate” must pay back Medicaid every dollar.   As some folks say “the government gets your home.” What…

It’s a fact. Everybody knows that many elder seniors can only remain in their homes with help. It might be help with general upkeep, or financial matters,  or it might be for personal assistance items like help with bathing or preparing meals. What if Mom pays a neighbor or daughter to help her and some…