Preparing for future long-term care means understanding how medical needs may change, how much support will cost, and whether MassHealth will cover any portion of that care. Families across Southeastern Massachusetts turn to elder law attorneys for help evaluating nursing home expenses, arranging home support, and protecting assets through thoughtful planning. We represent clients who want a clear strategy that preserves their financial stability and ensures their wishes are respected as they age. If you’re seeking guidance to help you stay prepared and safeguard what you have built, Surprenant, Beneski & Nunes, P.C. is ready to assist.
Why Choose Surprenant, Beneski & Nunes?
Clients turn to our firm for long-term care planning because we offer:
- Deep knowledge of Massachusetts elder law and benefits programs
- Tailored planning that reflects your goals, family circumstances, and resources
- Guidance on avoiding common planning mistakes that can result in lost benefits
- Attorneys with CELA (Certified Elder Law Attorney) credentials through the National Elder Law Foundation, demonstrating advanced training in elder law and long-term care planning
- A team approach that keeps you informed throughout the process
- Long-standing experience serving families across Southeastern Massachusetts
What Does Long-Term Care Planning Include?
Long-term care planning brings together legal, financial, and care-related decisions so you can prepare for changes in health or independence. A comprehensive plan typically addresses:
- Where you want to receive care
- How care will be paid for
- How to protect assets while qualifying for benefits
- Who will make decisions if you cannot
We help you understand your options and build a plan that supports both your immediate needs and long-term goals.
How Can MassHealth Affect Long-Term Care Options?
Many families in Massachusetts rely on MassHealth to help cover nursing home and long-term care costs. Because the program is means-tested, eligibility depends on income, assets, and whether transfers were made within the look-back period.
We assist with:
- Evaluating eligibility
- Structuring assets appropriately
- Preparing MassHealth applications
- Using tools such as spousal transfers or annuities when appropriate
- Understanding Massachusetts-specific programs, including Institutional Medicaid, Home and Community-Based Services, and Waiver programs
Proper planning can prevent delays in approval and reduce the risk of denials that could interrupt care.
Does Medicare Pay for Long-Term Care?
Medicare provides limited coverage. It typically pays for short-term skilled nursing care after a qualifying hospital stay, but it does not cover custodial care in a nursing home or long-term assistance in an assisted living facility. It also does not pay for most non-skilled home support, such as help with meals, dressing, or housekeeping.
Because many people assume Medicare will handle these costs, a thorough review of long-term planning options is important.
Is Long-Term Care Insurance a Good Option?
For some individuals, long-term care insurance can help cover the cost of home care, assisted living, or nursing facility care. Policies differ widely in price and coverage. Factors such as age, health history, benefit caps, and daily coverage limits influence overall value.
We evaluate policies with you, explain what they cover, and determine whether insurance is an appropriate addition to your plan.
How Do We Approach Incapacity Planning?
A complete long-term care plan includes preparing for the possibility that you may be unable to make medical or financial decisions at some point. We work with you to create or update:
- Durable powers of attorney
- Health care proxies
- HIPAA releases
- Living wills or advance directives
These documents help your loved ones act on your behalf without needing court involvement, which can be costly and time-consuming.
How Asset Protection Plays a Role
Protecting resources is often a key concern. With proper planning, many families can preserve savings while still qualifying for benefits. Strategies may include:
- Irrevocable trusts
- Spousal transfers
- Caregiver agreements
- Personal services contracts
- Strategic spend-downs that comply with state requirements
We guide you through these options with clear explanations of how each approach works and what fits best with your financial picture.
Planning for Care at Home or in a Facility
Whether someone prefers to remain at home or anticipates transitioning to assisted living or a nursing home, long-term care planning should address both current and future needs. We support families in evaluating care options, anticipating costs, and preparing for potential changes over time.
Contact Our Southeastern Massachusetts Long-Term Care Planning Attorneys
At Surprenant, Beneski & Nunes, P.C., we help you understand your choices and create a plan that supports your independence, health needs, and long-term goals. If you are ready to prepare for the next stage of life with thoughtful guidance, contact us to speak with our long-term care planning team.
Frequently Asked Questions
Is there a best age to start long-term care planning?
Planning typically begins in your 50s or 60s, but it can be helpful at any age. Starting earlier gives you more flexibility with asset protection tools and insurance options.
Do adult children have to pay for a parent’s nursing home care?
Massachusetts does not have a filial responsibility law requiring children to pay a parent’s long-term care expenses, but poor planning can still place financial strain on families. Our team helps reduce this risk.
Can gifts to family members affect MassHealth eligibility?
Yes. Gifts made within the five-year look-back period may result in a penalty period. We explain how timing rules work and offer alternative strategies that meet state requirements.