Elder law is a specialized area that focuses on assisting older individuals and those with disabilities to preserve their dignity, protect their assets, and make good decisions despite increasingly complicated laws.  This specialty encompasses such areas as planning for and paying for long-term care, asset preservation, housing options, disability planning, estate planning (including the use of financial and health care durable powers of attorney), and when necessary, the involvement of the probate court.

Important Issues Concerning the Elderly


The elderly are often victims of fraud and abuse.  Keep in mind that they may no longer be competent to handle their own affairs.  Listen and watch for potential trouble areas such as family members or other paid caregivers gaining access to and/or control of credit cards, checkbooks, property or other assets of the elderly person.   
 
While many elderly are disabled and/or unable to take care of themselves some refuse, or are kept from, being treated by a doctor.  Listen for incoherence, evidence of delusions, especially if you are speaking with them alone.  If they are accompanied by someone, gauge the relationship of the parties.  Watch for situations where an adult child is disrespectful or the parent is resentful towards the child.   
 
Ensure you know whether the elderly person is competent or has been declared incompetent by a doctor or a court of law.  Verify if a guardian or conservator has been appointed for the person.

Disclaimer
The content of this website has been prepared by Jay Ott, LLC for informational purposes only and should not be construed as legal advice. The material posted on this website is not intended to create, and receipt of it does not constitute, a lawyer-client relationship, and readers should not act upon it without seeking professional counsel.  No representation is made that the quality of legal services to be performed is greater than the quality of legal services performed by other lawyers.
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