Elder Law

The elder law attorneys at Poznak Dyer Kanar Schefsky Thompson, PLC in Midland, MI are experienced in all aspects of elder law, including wills and living wills, long-term care, Medicaid, and nursing home issues.

Long-Term Care Planning

Careful planning is essential to ensure that your long-term care needs are met with minimum disruption to the standard of living of your spouse and loved ones. Long-term care includes in-home care by professionals and/or your family, assisted living, nursing homes, and senior day centers, to name a few options.

It is vital to discuss your goals and values with a qualified elder law attorney to make sure that your wishes are carried out. Do you want to qualify for Medicaid coverage for your nursing home expenses, allowing your spouse to keep as much of the family income and assets as possible? Do you want to consider long-term care insurance to protect the rest of your investments and hopefully avoid nursing home care at all? Do you have family members who are willing to provide substantial care, but need some guidance and relief from local professionals? Your attorney is connected to the resources of the community and has worked with families in a variety of circumstances.

Planning for Incapacity

You always hear people talking about “avoiding probate” at death, but few realize that it is much more important, and easier, to avoid a “living probate” in the event of your incapacity. If you are unable to manage your own affairs due to ill health or declining mental faculties, no one, not even your spouse, has the authority to act for you without court consent. Your spouse, family member, friend, or a stranger will have to be appointed to make decisions for you in a public hearing at expense to you and your family. You can take charge and prevent this process by asking your estate-planning attorney to draft up-to-date business and healthcare powers of attorney.

If you’re looking for information on Medicaid, are considering long-term care for yourself or a loved one, or need help with estate planning, the elder law attorneys at Poznak Dyer Kanar Schefsky Thompson, PLC serving Midland, MI and Bay City, MI are here to help with all your legal needs.