Senior Counsel

New Study Shows High Doses of Vitamin D Reduce Risk of Falls in Seniors

Many authors tout the benefits of vitamin supplements.  One vitamin in particular has received a lot of attention for improving mood and coping abilities when the weather turns dark and dreary, but a new study seems to suggest that the use of high doses of vitamin D can reduce fall risks in seniors.  See it here.

The Powers Law Firm, P.C. Celebrates National Family Caregiver Month

Did you know that November is National Family Caregiver Month?  It is, and in honor of that I am offering caregivers a great opportunity.  During the month of November 2009, I will discount an initial Medicaid planning consultation by 50% to anyone mentioning that they saw this blog post.

Appointments are limited as we are a busy team, so do not delay in scheduling!  Simply email me or call us.  You will receive a confirmation notice that lists the information we need to provide tailored recommendations unique to your family.

An A-Ha Moment

Ever been stopped in your tracks by something you saw in passing?  I had one of those "a-ha" moments recently as I was frantically searching for a birthday card for a friend (destined to be late).  The   following quotation on a card grabbed my attention:

live with intention.

walk to the edge.

listen hard.

practice wellness.

play with abandon.

laugh.

choose with no regret.

continue to learn.

appreciate your friends.

do what you love.

live as if this is all there is.

-mary anne radmacher (emphasis added by me)

I would love to thank Mary Anne Radmacher in person.  As I stood there, really stood there and thought for a moment (which if you know me I do not do very often, usually racing to one thing or another and tripping as I go) I realized that I am very fortunate to do what I do every day. 

As an attorney I must be a fierce advocate for my clients and I certainly do my best to "listen hard," because my clients, when they are able to communicate, always provide me with the best information to help me help them.  I am daily challenged and fascinated by the people and situations we encounter together.  The stories I hear make me laugh, and often cry, too.  I am fortunate to be in a profession that is geared to help, although I and other elder law practitioners are sometimes stymied in our efforts by legislators who do not understand how their poorly crafted laws effect their constituents and  often thwarted in true planning options by the so-called "experts" who dole out mis-information (for a fee, but hey, it wasn't paid to that blood-thirsty lawyer) that causes heartache (are you listening, Suze Orman?).  I have never regretted choosing to venture into elder law.

So Ms. Radmacher forced me to take stock for that fleeting moment, and in spite of the moments where I think it would be easier to simply beat my head against the wall than continue the daily battles, this little trip we are all taking has been a great ride so far.

Medicare Part B Premium Should Not Increase for Most in 2010

While the government has announced that there is no expectation of a cost of living adjustment (often referred to as "COLA") for Social Security recipients in 2010, the Medicare Part B premium paid by many will likewise not increase.  There are certain individuals who may pay more, however.  See below for a very informative article posted by the Center for Medicare Advocacy, Inc.:

http://www.medicareadvocacy.org/PartB_09_08.27.PremiumsandCOLA.htm

Explore Using Geriatric Care Managers

There seems to be a fear of using outside help when dealing with a family member facing a disability or recovery from a serious illness or injury.  The great American independent spirit can actually hurt you.  Statistics show that caregivers often become ill  themselves from trying to do too much. 

One possible solution to the care-giving dilemma: Why not explore the use of a geriatric care manager?  These nurturing individuals can do many things, from counseling and support to coordination of care providers.  Rochester's nursing agencies and community service organizations have wonderful geriatric care managers on staff.  Try contacting HCR or Jewish Family Service of Rochester.  They have been invaluable with my clients.  Outside of Rochester, the National Association of Professional Geriatric Caregivers offers a searchable site to find a caregiver in your area. 

Always keep in mind that geriatric care managers are a valuable addition to a senior's team of advisors.  They should not take the place of the elder law attorney.  While many social workers and care managers certainly understand Medicaid options, they are not attorneys and cannot advise you or your family on the law.