Caregiving is one of the most personal and meaningful responsibilities a person can take on. Whether you’re helping an aging parent, spouse, or another loved one, the role can be both rewarding and overwhelming. The day-to-day demands, emotional toll, and long-term decisions can feel like a lot to manage—because they are. At Surprenant, Beneski & Nunes, P.C., we’ve worked with many families across Massachusetts who are walking this path. We offer practical solutions, legal guidance, and emotional support so you don’t have to carry it all alone.
Legal Planning to Support Your Role as Caregiver
Caring for someone often means stepping into their legal and financial world. Without the right documents in place, you may find yourself unable to make decisions during a health crisis or manage everyday needs. We help caregivers get the legal authority and protections they need, including:
- Powers of attorney for financial matters
- Health care proxies to make medical decisions
- Guardianship or conservatorship if your loved one can no longer make decisions on their own
- Long-term care planning to address future needs
- Updates to estate plans to reflect current circumstances
Putting these legal tools in place brings peace of mind. You’ll know you’re honoring your loved one’s wishes and that you have the authority to support them properly. We’ll guide you through every step and answer your questions along the way.
Compensation and Financial Support Options
Many caregivers reduce their work hours—or stop working altogether—to provide care. If this sounds familiar, you may be wondering if there’s a way to receive financial help. In many cases, there is. We can help you consider options such as:
- Caregiver agreements – These are formal contracts that allow a loved one to pay you from their own assets
- MassHealth planning – This can help protect the family home and qualify for long-term care benefits
- Veterans benefits – These may be available to spouses and caregivers of eligible veterans
- Tax relief – Some caregivers may qualify for deductions or credits
You shouldn’t have to sacrifice your financial future to provide care. We’ll help you understand what’s available and how to put a plan in place that works for everyone involved.
Respite Care and Resource Coordination
You can’t pour from an empty cup. Everyone needs a break now and then—and that’s where respite care comes in. Whether you need a few hours to run errands or a few days to rest and reset, temporary care options are available.
We help families explore:
- Adult daycare programs that provide daytime support and activities
- Short-term stays in care facilities for longer breaks
- In-home services that allow someone else to step in while you step away
- Local agencies and nonprofit groups offering relief for caregivers
We also connect you with trusted professionals who can help coordinate care or offer additional support. Taking care of yourself is part of taking care of someone else.
Managing the Emotional and Practical Challenges
Caregiving often brings up a mix of emotions—love, frustration, guilt, pride, and exhaustion. It’s normal to feel pulled in different directions. Many of the caregivers we work with tell us they didn’t expect just how challenging this role would be.
We’re here to help you manage those challenges. That might mean:
- Talking through family dynamics and setting realistic boundaries
- Creating a shared caregiving plan with siblings or other relatives
- Planning for your own future needs while you care for someone else
You don’t have to carry every responsibility alone. We can help you build a support system that works for your life and your loved one’s needs.
Contact Our Southeastern Massachusetts Caregiver Support Attorney
At Surprenant, Beneski & Nunes, P.C., we understand the pressure caregivers face—and we’re here to lighten that load. We work with families across southeastern Massachusetts to create thoughtful, practical plans that support both the caregiver and the person receiving care.
If you’re just starting out or have been caregiving for years, we’ll meet you where you are. Let us help you get the legal protections and financial support you need. Call us today to schedule a consultation. Together, we can build a plan that works—for both you and your loved one.