Senior Citizens are one of the most valuable assets in our community. They possess a wealth of knowledge gained over a lifetime of experience. Unfortunately, we don’t always recognize how the needs of our loved ones change as they age. In order to properly plan for and help protect our aging relatives (or ourselves for that matter), it is vital that frank, often uncomfortable discussions are had and questions are asked, such as:

• Who do you want to help you manage your finances if you can no longer do so for yourself?
• What kind of end of life care do you want to receive if you are terminally ill or incapacitated?
• What is the likelihood you are going to need long term care and how are you going to pay for it if you do?
• Who do you want to give authority to if you are diagnosed with Alzheimer’s or dementia and need a guardianship and conservatorship?
• How do you want your possessions divided when you pass away?

The answer to these questions are as unique as each individual that asks them. In order to answer questions like these effectively, it’s always helpful and often necessary to enlist the help of an Elder Law Attorney. Effective representation of seniors must address a host of interrelated, often very technical issues. The question isn’t just “Do I need a will” (which you definitely do), it’s “how do I effectively plan for the host of life changes that may happen from now until I pass away, how can I protect what I’ve worked so hard to gain, how can I maximize the benefits I could be eligible for, and how can I protect and provide for my loved ones?” It’s also “How do I make sure mom or dad have what they need to be as happy, healthy and safe as possible as they age.” And as difficult as these questions and answers may be, a difficult answer to a tough questions is much better than no answer to a question unasked. For more information on how to effectively plan for the transitions that come with aging, contact the attorneys at Masterson, Bottenberg & Eichorn, LLP.

Information provided by Chad Eichorn, attorney for Masterson, Bottenberg & Eichorn, LLP. 14225 University Ave., Suite 210 515­216­0737, www.dsmlawyers.com. Mr. Eichorn is an Elder, Special Needs & Family Law Attorney and Partner at MBE Law. He is a member of the National Academy of Elder Law Attorneys, the International Academy of Collaborative Professionals, and is accredited by the Department of Veterans Affairs to aid in application for Veterans Benefits.