Relocation and Estate Clearance Services: The Anatomy of a Virtual Clean Out

September 18th, 2013

This week’s guest blogger is Leslie Josel, a nationally recognized expert on chronic disorganization and hoarding issues. Leslie has appeared on several episodes of TLC’s hit television show, “Hoarding: Buried Alive,” the Cooking Channel’s television special, “Stuffed: Food Hoarders,” “dLife-TV” and the nationally syndicated “The Better Show” as an organizing expert. She is frequently quoted in mainstream news media such as MORE Magazine, Better Homes and Gardens, New York’s Daily News, Westchester magazine and other print media.

Losing a parent is difficult for anyone. But when you live thousands of miles away from your parents’ home and you are responsible for clearing out and selling it, the task can seem overwhelming. How are you going to take off work or leave your family? How are you going to be able to afford the multiple trips it might take to accomplish the clean out? Where do you even begin finding the resources you will need in a city that you don’t live in? By hiring a “transitions” or estate clearing company that works virtually. Yes, virtual is the answer! Let me take you through the anatomy of a virtual clean out.

Henry reached out to us to help him clear his parents’ home in Brooklyn. Due to personal issues, he was not able to make the trip east from his home in Texas. So we did our entire decision making by video, email and phone. We created a photo book of the home’s contents and their appraised value that was sent to Henry and his siblings. They were able to make the appropriate decisions at their leisure using our book as their guide.

With Henry’s involvement, we hired appraisers, cleaners, electricians, carting services and movers. We sold, donated and disposed of the contents of the home that Henry did not want to keep. In addition, through photos and video, we were able to advise Henry of the necessary repairs and renovations needed to get the home ready for sale and hired the appropriate contractors for the work. After extensive interviews with local realtors, we then hired a reliable realtor to sell the home. Through Virtual Organizing (E-mail, Skype and phone consultations), we enabled Henry to remain in Texas knowing that, while he was in capable hands, he would still be able to make critical decisions and stay in the loop every step of the way. End result? Henry’s parent’s home was sold within two months with Henry only needing to return to New York for the closing.

 

To find out more about Littman Krooks legal services, visit www.elderlawnewyork.com.

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Retroactive Disability Benefits Now Available for Veterans

September 16th, 2013

For the first time, eligible veterans who file fully developed claims (FDCs) will be entitled to retroactive benefits from the Department of Veterans Affairs for a service-connected disability, for up to one year. The change is due to provisions of a new law that went into effect on August 6, 2013 and will be in effect until August 5, 2015. Public Law 112-154 is a comprehensive package of legislation that was passed by Congress and signed into law on August 6, 2012 by President Obama.

Veterans’ advocates said that the new legislation is all the more reason for disabled veterans to submit fully developed claims, which are claims that do not need any further documentation. In addition to the retroactive benefits, FDCs move through the VA’s system much more quickly. The current average time for traditional disability claims to be processed and decided is approximately 260 days, while the average for FDCs is approximately 114 days.

Disability claims can be filed electronically using eBenefits, an online portal jointly operated by the VA and the Department of Defense. While submitting an FDC will decrease the processing time for any claim, only veterans submitting their first claim are eligible for retroactive benefits.

 

For more information about our legal services for veterans, visit wsww.elderlawnewyork.com.

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Demand for Caregivers Increases

September 11th, 2013

A new study by the Pew Research Center and the California HealthCare Foundation found that the number of adult caregivers of family members has increased from 30 percent to 39 percent in the past year. The sluggish economy, an aging population and an increase in chronic illnesses all have contributed to an increased need for caregivers in the home. And more than ever, those family caregivers are turning to the internet for support and information.

Grandm_GranddThe U.S. population in 2000 included approximately 12 percent of adults 65 years and older; by 2020, adults 65 and older are expected to make up at least 19 percent of the population. The increased “graying” of the country means that more comprehensive services for elders and their caregivers, both professionals and family members, are an ongoing concern. Most of the adults who are caring for a family member – two-thirds – are either caring for a parent or a parent-in-law, researchers say. Caregivers typically are doing everything from managing finances to shuttling the elderly parent to medical appointments, and more.

Another cause for concern is that more seniors than ever before are living with complex chronic medical conditions, and living longer. Seniors are relying on family members to help with their medical issues, in large part due to the sluggish U.S. economy. More households are attempting to manage their care with limited funds and resources and caregivers are turning to the internet for information on illnesses, symptoms, medications and treatment. The study found that more than 70 percent of caregivers surveyed reported that they research issues online. Information on medical issues and the support of social media have never been more important to caregivers, researchers say.

But the Internet is only one resource, and not as comprehensive as many caregivers need. According to a 2012 estimate by the AARP, 50 percent of caregivers for the elderly are delivering complex medical and nursing care in their own homes.

The bottom line? The U.S. health care system and the social system are both struggling to keep up with the demand for elder care. For now, that need is still being met primarily at home.

 

 

Visit www.elderlawnewyork.com for more information.

 

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Traveling Tips for Families with a Loved One with Alzheimer’s

September 9th, 2013

If you have a loved one with Alzheimer’s or other dementia, you may be apprehensive about bringing your family member with you when traveling. However, with a little bit of careful planning, you and your loved one can enjoy a safe trip.

Before deciding on travel details, consider what would be best for the safety and comfort of your loved one with Alzheimer’s. People in the early stages of the disease often enjoy travel, but for some the experience is overwhelming. Keep your family member’s preferences and limitations in mind when choosing your transportation method. The best journey is one that does not unduly disrupt your loved one’s daily routine. A person with dementia is likely to prefer a destination that is familiar or that involves visiting loved ones.

Navigating airport security can be difficult for someone with dementia; if you must travel by air, consider informing the airline of your needs ahead of time. Even if a wheelchair is not necessary, it may be a good idea for your family member’s comfort and because you will have an airline employee to help you get around the airport.

During the trip, be aware of the fact that a change in environment can be a trigger for wandering, and take precautions. Also be sure to keep essentials on hand such as a comfortable change of clothes, all prescribed medications, snacks and drinking water. You should also bring important documents such as copies of any living will or advanced health care directives, health insurance cards, and doctors’ names and contact information.

For more information about our elder law services, visit www.elderlawnewyork.com.

 

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Study Finds High Disability Rates for Elderly

August 27th, 2013

Researchers at the University of California, San Francisco, have released a study recently published in JAMA Internal Medicine, after looking at more than 15 years of data. They examined the national Health and Retirement Study in order to discern how many elderly people are disabled in their last few years of life. The study looked at more than 8,000 adults over the age of 50 who died between the years 1995 and 2010, and how mobile they were, as well as any disabilities they had in their last years of life.

Gerontologists and other elder care professionals have been working on the “compression of morbidity:” keeping seniors healthy and active as long as possible so that there is little-to-no loss in quality of life until just before death. But despite their best efforts, the researchers believe that instead, people are living longer while also disabled. Though later-life disability can be slowed down, it cannot, it seems, be prevented entirely. According to the lead author, Dr. Alex Smith, most people who live to an older age, especially women, do so with a mobility issue or other disability for the last few years of life.

The study found that for the last two years before death, 28 percent of individuals were disabled in an area of “activities of daily living,” meaning they could not bathe, dress or toilet themselves without assistance. Twelve percent of that group was severely disabled; they needed assistance with all three of the activities of daily living, and other assistance, as well. The rate of disability rose sharply with the age ranges; of the group which died by age 69, only 15 percent were disabled in the two years prior to their deaths. Of the group which died after age 90, at least 50 percent were disabled within two years prior to their deaths.

Mobility issues occurred in most people in the study; 69 percent of the older group had reported that they could not walk more than several blocks, while 50 percent reported that they had trouble using stairs. Women overwhelming were more disabled in their later years compared to men the same age, possibly due to depression, osteoporosis and arthritis, all of which occur more commonly in elderly women than in elderly men. The study did not include the incidences of cognitive decline.

The study indicates that the U.S. needs better elder care facilities, comprehensive medical elder care and extensive support structures in place as the nation’s elderly population continues to grow.

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How Nursing Facilities Can Be Welcoming to LGBT Residents

August 19th, 2013

Nursing homes have always had lesbian, gay, bisexual or transgender residents, but they have not always felt comfortable identifying as such, for fear of how staff or other residents might react. It is important for nursing facilities to be open and welcoming to LGBT residents, and to this end the Alzheimer’s Association has published a guide for long-term care facilities welcoming LGBT residents. The guide is also useful for LGBT elders and their families considering a nursing facility, to determine how welcoming it will be.

According to the Alzheimer’s Association, a facility should first of all assume that there are LGBT residents, and not assume that staff can identify them. LGBT residents cannot necessarily be identified by external characteristics and they may have past life experiences such as being in a heterosexual marriage or having children that do not fit common assumptions about LGBT people.

The association also recommends that nursing home staff ask residents about their sexual orientation in a safe and confidential way, in the same way that any other factual though potentially sensitive question would be asked. However, if the resident appears uncomfortable, the matter should not be pushed, and staff should remember that sexual orientation is just one aspect of a person’s identity.

The association recommends – and LGBT elders should look for – signs of welcoming in a long-term care facility. A facility can show that LGBT elders are welcome by prominently posting its non-discrimination policy, including same-sex couples in marketing materials, and including LGBT-inclusive images or messages in the lobby and other public areas. Forms should include relationship options such as “significant other” and “partner.” Staff should be trained on how to recognize and address the needs of LGBT residents.

When nursing facilities take these steps, it will be apparent to LGBT elders and their families that the facility is welcoming to them.

 

For more information about our elder law services, visit www.elderlawnewyork.com.

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What to Do When an Older Loved One is Resistant to Care

August 13th, 2013

 

Caring for an older loved one can be a challenge, even more so if the family member is resistant to care. In dealing with this type of situation, it is important to understand the source of the resistance and how to encourage cooperation.

A family member who resists care, whether it is direct help by a loved one or professional care, is likely experiencing unhappiness due to loss of independence. Needing to be cared for involves a disruption of routine and loss of privacy, which can be disconcerting. An older family member may be feeling frightened of aging or feel guilty about being a burden on other family members. All of these factors can combine to cause a response that is understandable even if it is not very rational: resisting needed care.

An important part of dealing with resistance to care is knowing when and how to have the necessary conversations with your loved one. You should bring the subject up at a relaxed time when you will be able to take time to listen to each other. Be sure to ask questions about your family member’s needs and preferences. Even someone with Alzheimer’s or other dementia can express preferences. If your loved one is resistant to even talking about the care situation, try letting the matter rest for a while and bringing it up again later.

One effective strategy for encouraging cooperation is to suggest that a new type of care be introduced on a trial basis. Whether the change involves bringing in a home health aide or leaving home, much of the resistance may come simply from fear of the unknown. Once your loved one actually experiences the benefits of care, there may be less trouble accepting it. In the case of a home health aide, it can be useful to point out that this can help prolong independence.

Depending on the situation, it also may be helpful to have a professional such as a doctor, attorney or care professional explain the need for care and the benefits of a certain arrangement. Due to family dynamics, an older parent may be more likely to take the advice of a trusted adviser.

Resistance to care can be an enormous challenge. Communicating effectively with your family member can make all the difference.
For more information about our elder law services, visit www.elderlawnewyork.com.

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How to Find a Senior Caregiver for an Adult with Alzheimer’s or Dementia

August 5th, 2013
Our guest blogger this week is Ken Myers, President of Morningside Nannies. – See more at: http://www.specialneedsnewyork.com/blog/#sthash.7I9XmaZ0.dpuf


Our guest blogger this week is Ken Myers, President of Morningside Nannies

As adults, we tend to take for granted an abundance of competency related normalcies that will one day begin to deteriorate, but there are many revelations that come with aging. One may wonder how our family members will find the proper person to take care of us when we are unable do so ourselves. How do our family members find the right person to take care of us when we are unable to do it for ourselves? The following is a list of considerations that need to be taken.

1. Experience – Though a person may have a substantiated educational background pertaining to the care of a senior with Alzheimer’s, someone with hands on experience may be better suited to provide for a person confronted with the ever-changing needs of their particular situation. You do not want to disregard education in total, but perhaps someone with more real time experience is better suited for the person that needs care.

2. Education – The positive value of a good education cannot be disregarded when considering a candidate.  A young person with a degree that is certified to care for seniors with disabilities may be adequate for your situation if it is not very complex. It will also provide that capable person with priceless hands on experience, enabling them to know what to expect going forward. At the very least the person will be prepared for the basic treatment of Alzheimer’s and/or Dementia and will likely be knowledgeable about CPR and First Aid. The latter is not guaranteed, so please ask.

3. Background Check – It is always smart to perform a background check on your caregiver and it should be a common practice. This will validate their credentials and prove useful in preventing an unfavorable situation when hiring live-in help. The downside to not preforming a background check is bottomless. This should always be done when considering care for a senior.

4. Trial Run – Impose a period of trial employment to gauge how well the candidate and the senior interact with each other day to day. Many adults will resist giving up control when it comes to personal care; it is natural to want to be independent. Grading how well a candidate performs under the pressures of resistance and aggression by the senior will help to determine if they are a fit for the job.

5. Caregiver Agency – There are many agencies that offer caregivers at varying levels of skill and education. These agencies have already prescreened, tested, and deployed these professionals to care for seniors in the past. Though these agencies tend to be more expensive, you can rest assured knowing that this candidate performs their job well and is proven.

It takes a great amount of patience and understanding to deal with someone with Alzheimer’s disease or Dementia. The person will need to be able to adapt at the drop of a hat and be able to care for us. You wouldn’t want to put someone who isn’t ready in that predicament, and many of us would rather not put our own family members through the frustration and anguish that comes with day-to-day care.

 

Author Bio:

Ken holds a master’s in business leadership from Upper Iowa University and multiple bachelor degrees from Grand View College.  As president of morningsidenannies.com, Ken’s focus is helping Houston-based parents find the right childcare provider for their family. When he isn’t working, he enjoys spending time with his three children and his wife.

 

For more information about legal services for seniors, visit www.elderlawnewyork.com.

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Prepare as Soon as Possible After Diagnosis of Alzheimer’s Disease

July 31st, 2013

Though the diagnosis of Alzheimer’s disease can be a distressing time for the patient and his or her loved ones, elder care advocates say that it is critical they begin advance planning for financial arrangements and health care as soon as possible. Alzheimer’s is a progressive disease of cognitive decline, but it can last for many years. Putting plans into place early can help make a significant difference in how that time can be spent.

If someone suspects that there are memory issues or other cognitive concerns, they should see a neurologist, geriatric assessment clinic or memory clinic for testing. If there is a formal diagnosis of Alzheimer’s disease, the results will give a baseline which may help when charting out a plan of next steps.

A person with a diagnosis of Alzheimer’s disease should then work with an elder law or estate planning attorney to ensure that their legal planning is thorough. Documents to be addressed include health care documents such as an advance directive which explicitly instructs health care choices (sometimes called a “living will”), and a durable power of attorney for health care decisions. The financial documents to be developed include a will, a durable power of attorney for finances, and possibly a living trust.

An elder care lawyer or estate lawyer can also assist in mapping out the financial options available for care. Some people find that spending down their assets to qualify for Medicaid is the option for them, but those assets need to be released at least five years before applying for Medicaid. Many states now have some level of a partnership-eligible, long-term-care policy available to help individuals protect some of their assets while using Medicaid. The purchase of a partnership policy which covers as much as $250,000 of care may allow the patient exhaust benefits and qualify for Medicaid while still holding onto assets up to $250,000.Other financial concerns for people with an Alzheimer’s diagnosis include checking with their bank’s policy on power of attorney and whether they need their own forms. Some banks require that they have their own power of attorney forms on file, which may be difficult to procure later on.

 

For more information about our legal services, visit www.elderlawnewyork.com.

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Making the Home Safer for the Senior Resident

July 25th, 2013

Many older people require the assistance with daily needs and safe environment that are found in an assisted living facility. Others prefer to age in place, bringing health care assistants into the home. In these cases, changes may also be needed to make the home safer for the senior resident.

Seniors may have trouble moving about or be at risk for falling. Improvements can be made to the home to make life easier, but older people or their adult children may not be aware of what changes can or should be made. An occupational therapist can be of great service, with some specializing in performing an analysis of the home environment and producing a detailed improvement plan that a contractor can follow.
There are some simple and inexpensive changes that can be made, such as installing brighter light bulbs and removing rugs that may cause slipping. More extensive safety features that may need to be installed can include grab-bars for walking assistance or an electric stair lift to get from one level to another easily and safely. Seniors may also need for the height of chairs to be increased slightly to make them easier to get in and out of.

When it comes to paying for such improvements, long-term care insurance can help. If you have such a policy, and it covers home improvements, then hiring an occupational therapist can help in demonstrating that the changes are necessary for the resident’s health. A reverse mortgage or home equity loan can also help pay for safety improvements, but consult with a financial adviser before taking out such financing.

 

For more information about our legal services for seniors, visit www.elderlawnewyork.com

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