Guardianship is a legal arrangement in which one adult takes responsibility for another. A legal guardian has authority over the ward in their care. They can make decisions about that person's daily life and their medical treatment. A conservator, on the other hand,...
Elder Law
Why is your parent resisting evaluation for guardianship?
As parent ages, a possible need to have a conversation about their well-being and potential need for additional support draws nearer. Suppose you bring up this issue but they resist an evaluation; you may wonder what to do next. The solution likely lies in...
3 signs it may be time to pursue guardianship of a loved one
Guardianships often attract negative attention. People associate adult guardianships or conservatorships with controversy and sometimes even elder abuse. There have been numerous high-profile cases where guardianships have led to financial abuse. However, New York...
When it might be time to hire an elder law attorney
Many challenges arise as people age, some of which may require outside help. People tend to think of financial professionals and medical professionals as the main sources of support that they will require in their golden years. However, quite a few people nearing...
What is elder law?
Most people have never heard the term elder law and only learn about elder law matters when they start approaching retirement age or step into a caregiver role for older family members. Some people conflate the term elder law with probate law or estate planning, but...
Does your parent’s medical diagnosis mean they need a guardian?
Guardianship is a way for family members to protect someone who cannot act in their own best interests. As people grow older, they may struggle to take care of themselves as they once did and may require more support than when they were younger. Sometimes, older...
How does the Medicaid lookback period work in New York?
Medicaid is a government insurance program that helps those unable to afford necessary medical care. Strict limitations on who can qualify for Medicaid help limit the overall costs for this important medical safety net. Limiting who can qualify for benefits and also...
Can you make medical decisions for a parent declining care?
It's hard for anyone to watch their parents decline, but for some people, the experience can be particularly traumatic. Older adults struggling with cognitive function sometimes become despondent and might begin refusing medical care or failing to take care of...
The many responsibilities as guardian of an elderly parent
It remains a decision that you and your family have struggled with and pondered for a few months. What to do about your father, who is losing his memory and shows signs of dementia. The other day, he planned to drive to your house to see his grandchildren. However, he...
What Are Medicaid’s Asset Rules?
The Medicaid requirements may appear like an additional indignity when entering an assisted living facility or placing a loved one in long-term care. The majority of the remaining money you have left is liquidated before that Medicaid initiates. Medicaid is...