Within the larger subject of estate planning is the concept of elder law. Essentially, elder law is estate planning that deals with issues more common amongst the senior population. Because they regularly address these issues, elder law attorneys are not...
It is well-known that seniors are especially vulnerable to scam artists. The reasons are quite clear: seniors are often retired and available, having the time and interest to be responsive to a stranger’s proposition. They are also much more likely to talk on the phone or reply to an email that piques...
Estate planning discussions often give the impression that every senior in America is married with two or more kids. That’s not true, of course, and those who do not fit the profile need estate planning guidance at least as much as the stereotypical couple does.
Unmarried people should put a...
If you or a close relative has been diagnosed with a disease that will interfere with your ability to be independent physically and/or mentally, you are at a serious crossroads. You can proceed blindly, pretending the inevitable will not happen, or you can take control and plan for incapacity.
When a loved one begins to show signs of dementia, one of the first questions many families ask is: “Can they still sign legal documents?” The answer depends on the person’s mental capacity at the time the document is signed. In Massachusetts, mental capacity isn’t judged by diagnosis alone—it’s about whether your...
According to Forbes Magazine, it is estimated that there are 12 million adults over age of 65 and are living alone, or 27% of the overall population. That is a staggering number. Of that population, most are women. Ironically, although they are now alone, most were at one time or another, caretakers to...
Financial abuse of the elderly is a growing problem in Massachusetts and throughout the country. Tragically, elder financial abuse often goes unreported, either because the victims are unaware they are being scammed, ashamed of having been taken advantage of, or fear retaliation. The best way to protect them is to contact Surprenant...
Most of us are aware of the profusion of scam artists who make continual attempts to steal from others by mail, by phone, and through the internet. We are also aware that the elderly, as the most vulnerable population, are perpetually targeted. Even so, it is extremely disturbing to find that...
A new year is upon us, and with it comes a host of New Year’s resolutions. A Neilson.com survey found that the top goals for the new year included: 1) staying fit and healthy, 2) losing weight, 3) enjoying life to the fullest, 4) spending less, saving more, 5) spending more time...
After a loved one dies, there are many issues which need to be addressed to wrap up the person’s legal and financial affairs. The following is a checklist of issues to consider:
The funeral home should take care of providing you with certified copies of the death certificate. The...
