Legal, Financial, and Long-Term Planning: Guidance for Aging Adults and Those Facing Serious Illness

Aging, chronic illness, or a serious diagnosis such as dementia can feel overwhelming—not only for the individual but also for family members and caregivers. As a Geriatrics and Palliative Care practice, we often guide patients and families through complex decisions involving medical care, financial planning, and long-term support. Whether you are aging, living with multiple chronic conditions, or navigating a recent diagnosis, early planning ensures peace of mind, autonomy, and quality of life.

  • Healthcare Planning

    Having the right medical directives in place allows individuals to express their values and wishes in advance—before a crisis occurs.

    Advance Directives: Legal documents that communicate your health care preferences if you're unable to speak for yourself.

    Medical Power of Attorney (Healthcare Proxy): Authorizes someone you trust to make health decisions on your behalf.

    Directive to Physicians (Living Will): Specifies your preferences for life-sustaining treatment in the event of a terminal or irreversible condition.

    Do Not Resuscitate (DNR) Orders: Instruct medical providers not to perform CPR or other life-saving interventions in the event of cardiac or respiratory arrest.

    These documents are essential for ensuring your healthcare decisions reflect your personal goals and values.

    Healthcare Planning

  • Financial Planning for Aging and Illness

    Sound financial planning is a critical aspect of long-term well-being. It protects assets, supports future care needs, and reduces stress on loved ones.

    Will: Outlines how your estate and assets will be distributed upon your death.

    Durable Power of Attorney for Finances: Assigns someone to manage your financial affairs if you're no longer able to do so.

    Living Trust: Allows a designated trustee to manage and distribute assets according to your instructions, often without the need for probate.

    A qualified elder law attorney can help ensure these documents meet state laws and your personal circumstances.

    Financial Planning for Aging and Illness

  • Long-Term Care Planning

    Planning for care needs—whether now or in the future—can make transitions smoother and reduce family burden.

    Types of Long-Term Care:

    In-Home Care: Services include help with bathing, dressing, grooming, toileting, eating, and mobility. Professional caregivers can provide regular assistance or 24/7 support.

    Adult Day Centers: Offer supervised daytime care, social engagement, and structured activities for individuals who need assistance. These centers provide needed respite for caregivers.

    Assisted Living/Supported Care: For those who need help with daily activities but don't require 24-hour medical supervision. Some facilities offer memory care for those with cognitive decline.

    Skilled Nursing/Nursing Homes: Licensed facilities offering round-the-clock care for individuals with serious medical needs, often including physical therapy, wound care, and end-of-life care.

    Ask your healthcare team for referrals to trusted local providers or elder care coordinators.

    Long-Term Care Planning

Forms

Do Not Resuscitate (DNR) Orders:

https://drive.google.com/file/d/1uCbzbFGl2CuMKsDeGAJFHP9nmcQaEceH/view?usp=drive_link

Directive to Physicians (Living Will):

https://drive.google.com/file/d/13NLHWUzOPqVy-jX5zrnz8MkmVeSsZBil/view?usp=drive_link

Medical Power of Attorney (Healthcare Proxy):

https://drive.google.com/file/d/1mBFTRWkoqM2wcRqYWnGTrJqhBaoNvWKt/view?usp=drive_link