Trusts can be a useful tool when planning for long-term care needs and estate planning. There is no one size fits all trust, and the best trust is one that is custom built to meet the needs of an individual. A trust, by definition, is a relationship between a settlor, a trustee and the beneficiaries. [...]
Choosing who will be your power of attorney for healthcare and durable power of attorney for financial matters is often a tough choice. Ideally, you will choose the person who has your best interests at heart and can best manage your health and finances. These powers of attorney can be the same person, or two [...]
One of the common questions that comes up when planning for a durable power of attorney for an Alzheimer’s or Parkinson’s patient is when to make the document effective. Generally speaking, it is best to make the power of attorney effective immediately, as there is no way to guess how these diseases will progress. Many [...]
The durable power of attorney is the legal document that designates a person to handle legal, business, financial and real estate matters on behalf of the principle who signed the document. For those diagnosed with Alzheimer’s or Parkinson’s disease, this is one of the most important documents to be completed, and it needs to be [...]
When your loved one receives a diagnosis of Alzheimer’s or Parkinson’s disease, it is important to understand that the progression of both diseases is completely unpredictable. Some people live years with mild symptoms, while others decline quickly. It is imperative to make sure that you waste no time in planning for legal and financial concerns, [...]
When a loved one is diagnosed with Alzheimer’s or Parkinson’s disease, many challenges come along with the diagnosis. This month we will help you determine the answers to questions such as: What types of treatment and care are best for your loved one? How will you deal with the constant worry over care and finances? [...]
Parkinson’s disease is a disease that causes a loss of brain cells that produce the chemical known as dopamine. The lack of dopamine prevents the brain from transmitting the signals that produce controlled and smooth movements to the major muscles. Without dopamine, the neurons fire without the control needed to direct movement. Parkinson’s is most [...]
A diagnosis of Alzheimer’s may come as a surprise, or may be confirmation of what you have been suspecting for some time. Regardless of how the news comes, it leaves the loved ones of the person with the diagnosis feeling lost, confused and worried. Many questions are likely running through your mind. Common questions include: [...]
Alzheimer’s and Parkinson’s disease are two very serious, and sadly fairly common, diseases that slowly rob a person of physical and mental abilities. When you learn that your loved one has been diagnosed with either of these diseases, it’s very important to being planning for the future at once. Eventually, a person with Alzheimer’s or [...]
Spend down is the term used to explain the amount of assets a person must spend before they fall within the limits for qualifying for Medicaid. What can be challenging is making sure you are properly spending down the assets so that Medicaid doesn't give you a disqualification period, but also making sure the assets [...]