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 Maine, elder law encompasses various legal matters affecting older adults and their caregivers, including estate planning, guardianship, Medicare and Medicaid planning, long-term care arrangements, and protection against elder abuse. Estate planning may involve creating wills, trusts, and advance directives to ensure an individual's wishes are honored. Maine's Probate Code governs these processes. For healthcare decisions, Maine recognizes advance healthcare directives and durable powers of attorney, allowing individuals to designate someone to make decisions on their behalf. MaineCare, the state's Medicaid program, provides assistance for long-term care, but eligibility requirements must be met, and proper planning is essential to protect assets. Additionally, Maine has laws to protect seniors from abuse, neglect, and exploitation, such as the Adult Protective Services Act. It's advisable for individuals dealing with elder law issues to consult with an attorney who specializes in this area to navigate the complex legal landscape and ensure the rights and interests of the elderly are protected.