If the following scenario sounds familiar, please keep reading:

Mom has been living alone for years since the passing of dad. As her health begins to decline, the decision is made for her to move in with you or a sibling. As her finances continue to dwindle, there is talk that it may make sense to transfer the funds remaining in her one bank account to an account in your name for the benefit of mom. You will be better able to manage the money on her behalf moving forward. If she needs care down the road, she can move to a facility. All family members are in agreement, so there is no concern about accusations of elder financial abuse (which is something to keep on your radar). Two years later, when mom needs more care than you or your sibling can provide, you may find that both (1) mom’s medicaid application is denied and (2) in the event it is accepted, you are unable to find placement for her in a facility with a Medicaid contract. Meeting with an experienced elder law attorney before navigating decisions like these on your own will save you time, grief, and greater expense down the line.

Long-term care planning has become both an art and a science. At Wy’East Law, we will ensure you avoid the easy to make stumbles that leave lasting financial bruises. You will be advised on the legal ways to handle mom’s finances over time in ways that will not result in ineligibility for long-term care. You will also benefit from the insider knowledge of the long-term care industry and the local facilities’ patterns and practices of admission. These days you will find there may be an art to placement of your loved one that is not openly advertised. Do yourself a favor and make a plan ahead of time. Call Wy’East Law at (503) 354-6402 and schedule a long-term care planning conference to discuss your concerns for the coming years.