Glossary

What is Elder law attorney?

An elder law attorney is a lawyer who specialises in the legal needs of older adults: powers of attorney, guardianship, Medicaid planning, and estate matters.

For a family facing dementia, the urgent work is getting powers of attorney signed while the person can still consent, and understanding how paying for care affects assets and Medicaid eligibility.

The National Academy of Elder Law Attorneys maintains a directory; certified elder law attorneys have passed an additional exam.

Why it matters

Documents signed after capacity is lost may be challenged; the right time to see one is earlier than most families do.

Further reading: National Academy of Elder Law Attorneys

Elder law attorney where you live

The local guide on this, for each city we cover.

Related terms

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