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 Utah, elder law encompasses various legal matters affecting older adults and their caregivers, including estate planning, guardianship, long-term care planning, Medicare and Medicaid planning, and elder abuse protection. Utah's statutes provide for the creation of wills, trusts, and powers of attorney to manage financial and healthcare decisions. The Utah Uniform Probate Code regulates estate and trust matters. For healthcare, Utah has an Advance Health Care Directive Act that allows individuals to outline their healthcare preferences. The state also has specific laws to protect the elderly from abuse, neglect, and exploitation, such as the Utah Adult Protective Services Act. Additionally, Utah Medicaid has provisions for long-term care for the elderly, which includes eligibility requirements and benefits for those in need of nursing home care or in-home services. It's important for individuals dealing with elder law issues to consult with an attorney who specializes in this area to navigate the complex interplay of state and federal laws that affect the elderly.