The chances are that if you’ve ever heard the term “elder law” you automatically assume only elderly people need to know about it. While it is true that all of the issues elder law attorneys deal with apply most often to seniors, younger people should also be familiar with what elder law is and why it can impact their own lives. Here are some of the more common issues that elder law attorneys deal with.
Medical Choices
As we age we naturally lose the abilities we once had. This sometimes includes our ability to make our own decisions. If an elderly person loses cognitive abilities without taking precautionary measures, it can cause significant problems for both that person and his or her family. The cost of having to go to court and ask the court to appoint a guardian is often significant, especially if there are disagreements between family members.
On the other hand, someone who takes the time to create powers of attorney or medical directives before actually needing them will save both time and money if he or she is ever incapacitated and needs someone else to make decisions.
Financial Responsibilities
Like medical decisions, elderly people will also need someone else to take care of their financial responsibilities should they lose their ability to make choices. Financial powers of attorney are vital in this respect and can allow people to think about whom they want to trust with their financial choices well in advance of actually needing someone to step in.
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