Elder Law

If you have an elderly loved one, you undoubtedly worry about his/her physical and cognitive health, but has it ever occurred to you to worry about the risk of suicide? Probably not. Senior suicide is actually much more common that most people realize. In 2005, the most recent year for which statistics are available, there were 5,404 suicides in the United States among those aged 65 and older, according to the American Association of Suicidology. That figure translates into nearly 15 elder … [Read more...] about Is an Older Loved One at Risk for Suicide?

As the Baby Boomer generation moves into their retirement years, the number of older Americans continues to increase at a historic rate. In fact, the U.S. Census Bureau expects the population aged 65 and older to nearly double from 43.1 million in 2012 to 83.7 million in 2050. For the first time in history, the number of older adults (age 65 and older) is expected to outnumber their younger counterparts (age 21 and younger) that same year. With the increase in seniors, we are also experiencing a … [Read more...] about Indiana Ranks in the Middle for Elder Abuse Protection

Contrary to what many people believe, disability is not a concern that is limited to the elderly. The reality is that you could suffer a temporary, or permanent, disability at any time during the course of your lifetime – though the odds do increase with age. Fortunately, the United States government has programs that offer financial assistance to individuals who are disabled. Both the Supplemental Security Income (SSI) and Social Security Disability Insurance (SSDI) program provide monetary … [Read more...] about SSI vs. SSDI – Do You Qualify for Either?

The world lost a legend of the comic world when Stan Lee passed away on November 12th at the age of 95. Prior to his death, Lee made headlines repeatedly as those close to him jockeyed for control of his fortune. Despite ailing health, Lee fought back with allegations of elder abuse. The litigation that was ongoing at the time of his death does not simply disappear with his death, meaning it will plague the probate of his estate. While most of us will not have the type of fame and fortune Lee … [Read more...] about What Stan Lee’s Death Should Teach Us

Making the decision to move an older loved one to a nursing home is rarely a decision that is easily made. In reality, however, it is often a necessary decision because failing to do so could put a loved one at risk for serious injury or victimization by those who prey on vulnerable seniors. Once the decision has been made, the next step is to find the best nursing home for your loved one, a task that may seem daunting. To assist you with your search, the Indianapolis nursing home lawyers at … [Read more...] about 10 Tips to Help You Choose the Right Nursing Home

Over the past several decades, the older population in the United States has grown at a historic rate. In fact, experts predict that by the year 2050, the older population (age 65 and older) in the U.S. will outnumber their younger counterparts (age 21 and younger) for the first time in history. Seniors encounter many of the same legal issues as their younger counterparts; however, they also face some unique legal problems. The legal needs of older Americans created a corresponding need for … [Read more...] about What Can an Elder Law Attorney Do for You?

As we age, so do our parents, grandparents, and other older family members. At some point, a role reversal often occurs, where you become the protector and your older family members become vulnerable.  As a result of physical and/or mental deterioration, your older family members may eventually need additional assistance around the house or may even need around the clock care in a long-term care facility.  Despite your best efforts to ensure that the people caring for your loved one … [Read more...] about What Should I Do If I Suspect Elder Abuse?

If you are thinking ahead about retirement, it is a good idea to talk with Indianapolis elder law attorneys. At Frank & Kraft, our experienced legal team can help you to take steps to ensure that you have as much financial security as possible during your golden years. You should reach out to us as soon as possible in your career so we can provide you with advice appropriate to the life stage you're currently in.   Making advance plans to prepare for retirement is key … [Read more...] about How Indianapolis Elder Law Attorneys Help You Prepare for Retirement Security

An elder law attorney at Frank & Kraft can provide insight into the issue seniors face as they get older. One issue is that many seniors face a big risk of financial loss. This risk could come from many different sources. Seniors may need costly nursing home care that they end up having to pay for out-of-pocket if they do not have a Medicaid plan to get care covered; they could experience high healthcare bills that eat into their nest egg; or they could end up being victimized … [Read more...] about 90-Year-Old Loses Thousands in Phone Scam

An elder law attorney can provide help in choosing a healthcare proxy and in creating a power of attorney so you have a trusted friend or family member who can make decisions on your behalf if you become unable to act of your own accord. Making plans in advance for who will serve as your agent in case of incapacity is important because your agent could end up making life-and-death medical decisions on your behalf.  Unfortunately, there are some circumstances where people … [Read more...] about Senior Advocates Form Army of Guardians