Three Reasons Why You Need an Elder Law Attorney Now

As the nation enter the sixth month of a pandemic that has affected people in every state, there’s never been a more urgent time to create an estate plan with an elder law attorney.

1. The coronavirus pandemic makes estate planning more critical than ever.

The Centers for Disease Control says that the risk of severe illness from COVID-19 increases with age. Older adults have the highest risk. According to the CDC, 8 out of 10 COVID-19 deaths reported in the United States have been for adults age 65 and older.

It’s a sobering thought, but CDC data shows that people 85 years of age or more run the greatest risk of dying from COVID-19.

Those who are at increased risk of severe illness from COVID-19 can take action to protect against the disease. The CDC recommends limiting interactions with other people as much as feasible and practicing protocols such as frequent hand washing, social distancing, and mask wearing.

From a practical and legal standpoint, many older residents in the Boston area have reached out to Adam Tobin Law, an Andover, Massachusetts, elder law attorney, to create or update estate documents.

2. Nearly 20 percent of the population will be age 65 or older by 2030.

Aging Americans and their families have to act for themselves to make arrangements for long-term care. One point to consider is whether long-term care insurance is needed. Andover MA Elder Law Attorney Adam Tobin counsels and advises clients as to whether private long-term care insurance is appropriate for each client on a case-by-case analysis.

3. An elder law attorney specializes in the rights of senior citizens.

An elder law attorney is an advocate for the elderly and their loved ones. Because elder law attorneys are trained in legal matters that affect older people, they have a greater knowledge about the legal rights of senior citizens as well as laws that protect their rights.

An elder law attorney helps seniors plan wills, draft estate plans, and navigate other legal matters. While general practice attorneys can also provide these services, they do not focus on a specific age group or population. Hiring an elder attorney means that seniors and their loved ones receive legal assistance that focuses on their particular needs.