Right now, you and your loved ones might be healthy and capable. But imagine how peaceful you would feel knowing you’ve planned for the unexpected. Planning isn’t just about facing life today; it’s about creating a buffer for whatever lies ahead, especially in case of a disability.  Contingency planning through special needs trusts ensures you protect yourself and those you love no matter what happens.

The closing of more senior care facilities in Maine spotlights concerns about long-term care options. For some healthy older adults, aging in place gives hope. But it might not be the right path for everyone.

A Wells Fargo survey found that nearly half of all Americans would rather discuss funeral plans than financial plans with their parents.  The discomfort about broaching these and similar topics can arise over concerns about appearing to expect an inheritance. Adult children might also wonder if they’re ready to handle responsibilities like caring for aging parents. And they could fear their parents will overreact or they will lead their parents to think they believe they’re experiencing health or financial troubles. To ensure you won’t need to guess in an emergency, find out your parents' financial, health-care, and legacy plans -- whether they’re already in place or should be considered. Here's how.

The end of the COVID-19 public health emergency has led to a return of Medicaid eligibility reviews nationwide. People often seek help with Medicaid planning in a health-care crisis – when they or a loved one become seriously ill or need nursing home care and can't afford it. State laws and eligibility requirements for long-term care (LTC) may be hard to understand without advice. Experienced elder law attorneys, like those at LWP&E, can offer ways to qualify for Medicaid while you protect your assets.

You might have planned for a career, a family, or retirement, but have you considered planning for a time when you can’t care for yourself? You might not like to think about that. You could stay healthy well into your golden years. Planning for long-term care, however, can minimize the costs should the need for it ever arise.

The older you get, the more likely you are to be affected by legal issues involving aging. An elder law attorney can help you address some of them. An elder law attorney offers guidance on matters that concern the elderly, their families and caregivers, and adults with special needs, including long-term care and estate planning.

The recent closing of long-term care facilities in the Pine Tree State has highlighted concerns about what's happening to the industry. If you or a loved one need care now or later, you may wonder what to do and where to go. Knowing what's in-store for long-term care in Maine and nationwide can help you explore your options.