When a loved one begins to show signs of cognitive decline, life changes in quiet but profound ways. The routines that once felt simple now require planning. The choices that once seemed far off — about care, home, and money — start to feel urgent. Yet few families realize that the very systems meant to protect them were never designed for this kind of journey.

Some individuals believe that every dollar must be spent before Medicaid will provide assistance. Others assume Medicare alone covers all extended care needs, only to face unexpected bills later. These misconceptions can prevent people from learning about strategies that protect both assets and access to vital care.

Many people assume that creating a Will means they have everything covered, but a simple will often leaves important questions unanswered. This is especially true for seniors who don’t consider their own potential incapacity, prohibitive long term care costs,  and avoiding family disputes

We have all been inundated with advertisements begging seniors to call some hotline to see if they are eligible for "extra" Medicare benefits. Those advertisements are for enrollment in Medicare Advantage plans.

People who began 2024 and enrolled in a Medicare Advantage (MA) plan have an additional opportunity to switch plans or disenroll from an advantage plan and enroll in traditional Medicare with a Part D prescription drug plan

A potential client recently contacted my office. Her husband was recently admitted to a long term care facility (nursing home) and after Medicare stopped paying for her husband's care, she faced a bill of approximately $9,000 per month.

Corticosteroid injections, which are often used for relief of joint paid, may actually be associated with faster progression of the disease, according to new research. The most prevalent type of arthritis, Osteoarthritis occurs when cartilage cushioning a joint degrades over time.

CNN Business is reporting that there are seven possible changes to retirement plans that Congress is considering. Both the Senate and the House have passed similar legislation, so we will have to see if they can form it into a cohesive bill to send to President Biden for his signature.

Social Security benefits will change in a few ways this coming year (2023). Social Security recipients should see a significant increase in their checks next year, due to cost of living adjustments built into social security.

Often in Medicaid planning we will create irrevocable trusts with a "power of appointment."  A power of appointment is a clause in your trust which enables you, or someone you designate, to do various things.