Elder Law is something that few people are aware of until they actually need it. The truth is that laws regarding the elderly are constantly being changed and it is virtually impossible to keep up with these changes unless you have the help of an attorney or keep up to date through organizations for seniors, such as Association for the Advancement of Retired Persons. In fact, Elder Law is a newly evolving field of law that is growing due to the ever increasing number of boomers that are reaching that 'elderly' stage of life.
Granted, most people that are considered seniors would prefer to be called just that, 'seniors', and they cringe at the word 'elderly', but until such time as the terminology is updated, they will just have to deal with it and realize that it is not meant to be derogatory in nature. Do not hesitate, for example, to look in the yellow pages for those specializing in Elder Law, or to search on the internet for the same. You could be missing some vital information if you prefer to stick your head in the sand or fail to acknowledge that the 'old fashioned' terminology has yet to be changed. It is also true that Elder Law and laws for those with disabilities or special needs often go hand-in-hand, so if you are unable to locate specific information or help, then by all means, take this into consideration and broaden your search.
Elder Law covers any number of topics that may arise out of becoming a senior citizen, such as, Estate Planning, Wills, Trusts, Conservatorship which is the same thing as Guardianship, Long-term Health care Planning and your any other rights you may hold as an elderly person. As more and more seniors enter retirement communities, assisted care facilities and nursing homes, contract rights and the power the facility has are coming into question. Elder abuse is becoming a center of focus as more and more people 'come of age'; because of their needs they are given into the care of licensed facilities, daycare organizations and even into the homes of their children or grandchildren.
Not only do the senior citizens and the elderly need questions answered, but so do their children, brothers, sisters, or other family members who may have the sole responsibility for their care. Protection of civil rights and the quality of life are being questioned and investigated as facilities struggle to meet the rising demand. Even the question of the right to die is being reexamined over and over again as more and more seniors find themselves in ill health. Lawyers and organizations for the aged can help you cope with the moral and legal questions and answers. Even something as simple as a Do Not Resuscitate Order (DNR) should be taken into careful consideration and as a senior, you should be thinking ahead to the day that these things may be an issue. Being proactive about your future will make things easier on you and your family.
Growing old is a fact of life. It happens to all of us. There is not much you can do about it, but there is no reason to be treated differently, abused or neglected because of your age or infirmity. If there is ever any question concerning the well-being of an elderly loved one, or if you, yourself feel that your age has been a factor in the quality or type of care that you receive, do not hesitate to find the right people that can answer your questions and are knowledgeable of Elder Law. You have earned the right to live and to die in dignity and with the utmost respect for your age.
Source: http://www.20vn.com/elder-law/may-is-national-elder-law-month-923.htm
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