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Estate planning for older adults in Connecticut

On Behalf of | Jan 27, 2025 | ELDER LAW - Estate Planning

Many people have heard of estate planning attorneys but are not aware of estate planning attorneys that specialize in elder law. Elder law attorneys often focus on the needs of older adults by making sure they have a plan for the future, helping to protect their rights, and making sure that their affairs are in order.

Elder law attorneys may advise their clients to include certain documents in their estate plans and assist with preparing these documents. These documents may include:

  • Wills: A will is intended to specify how your assets will be distributed at the time of your death. You will name an executor to handle your estate, as well as beneficiaries to receive your assets. If you already have a will in place, it is important to make sure it is up to date to account for any significant life changes (e.g., divorce or new children in the family).
  • Trusts: Both revocable and irrevocable trusts are available to avoid probate. However, an irrevocable trust can also provide asset protection and allow elder adults to plan for Medicaid.
  • Financial and medical power of attorney: You can choose one or more people to have financial and medical power of attorney to help manage your affairs if you are incapacitated. The person with financial power of attorney can manage your finances, while the person with medical power of attorney can make medical decisions on your behalf.
  • Healthcare directives: These are used to outline your wishes for medical treatment if you ever become incapacitated. You can specify the types of treatment you would want or not want.

In addition to assisting with estate planning, an elder law attorney can assist with issues relating to long-term care. Your attorney can help you have a better chance at qualifying for public assistance (e.g., Medicaid) and help you protect your assets from nursing home care costs.