Elder law includes a broad range of legal issues related to elderly persons and those who may be entrusted with their financial, health care, housing, and estate planning decisions.
In Massachusetts, elder law encompasses various legal matters affecting older adults and their caregivers, including estate planning, health care, financial welfare, and housing. Estate planning may involve creating wills, trusts, and powers of attorney to ensure proper management of an individual's assets and decisions in the event of incapacity or death. Health care directives, such as a Health Care Proxy, allow seniors to appoint someone to make medical decisions on their behalf if they are unable to do so. Financial issues may include managing retirement benefits, Social Security, and protecting assets from long-term care costs, often through the use of irrevocable trusts. Massachusetts also has specific statutes to prevent elder abuse and financial exploitation, and to provide for the needs of seniors through community-based services, housing assistance, and long-term care options. Attorneys specializing in elder law can assist with navigating these complex areas to protect the rights and interests of the elderly and their families.