What is Elder Law?
Elder Law Service has developed over the past three decades to meet the specialized needs of our older population, particularly addressing potential long-term care cost planning. Originally considered a sub-specialty of estate planning, this field of law has since become independently recognized.
Under the umbrella of “Elder Law,” our Elder Law Attorneys in Portland handle general estate planning issues and counsel clients about planning for incapacity with alternative decision making documents. Attorneys also assist clients in planning for possible long-term care needs, including nursing home care, locating the appropriate type of care, coordinating private and public resources to finance the cost of care, and working to ensure the client’s right to quality care are all part of the Elder Law practice.
When an individual is no longer capable of handling activities of daily living – eating, dressing, bathing, mobility, and cognition – high emotional and financial costs are associated with providing for these needs in an appropriate setting.
As everyone lives longer, the number of persons needing care grows. Today there are about five and a half million older people who require long-term care. By 2025, there will be more than eight million people in that category, and by 2050 there will be more than ten million.
Elder Law attorneys plan to ensure that an individual’s assets are sufficient to provide for the individual and his or her healthy family members over the remainder of their lives. For many, this goal includes planning that will allow the individual to qualify for various public and private benefits. The planning process provides solutions for families during what is generally a difficult time.
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“The attorneys, paralegals and staff are thoughtful, caring & attentive. Everything a client needs when faced with life’s most difficult and important decisions. There is no one better in the industry.”
— Carolyn M.