Elder Law

Nashville Elder Law Attorney

Is there any way to take care of myself and leave an inheritance for my family if I need to apply for Medicare?

Davidson County lawyer Penny Harrington has been an advocate of Tennessee’s people, during twenty-five years in the legal profession, and through her involvement in civic organizations. One of her concerns is that the rising cost of medical care for senior citizens in many cases depletes the reserves of families until the quality of life for the elderly suffers.

With careful planning, families may be able to preserve assets. Such assets may provide a heritage and provide for quality of life for senior family members if they need in-home or nursing home care. Contact Harrington Law Office in Nashville to speak with attorney Penny Harrington about elder law. Issues of concern to individuals and families include:

Medicare planning: You may have the impression that it is necessary to “spend down” all assets before becoming eligible for Medicare. In fact, through the use of specially designed trusts, such as the Miller Trust, nursing home residents receiving Medicare benefits can have trust income that provides the personal items that are necessary to a reasonably comfortable quality of life. If elder estate planning is begun as part of a comprehensive estate plan well in advance of the need for medical assistance, you may also be able to preserve assets for your children.

Protection from elder abuse: Sadly, vulnerable elders are too often abused by care providers in nursing homes, or neglected by over-stressed family care-givers. If you are concerned about the care or safety of an elderly acquaintance or relative, contact an elder law attorney to discuss an order of protection, conservatorship, guardianship, or other measures to ensure their safety.

Elder advocacy: Harrington Law Office will act as an advocate on behalf of a nursing home resident, meeting with doctors, monitoring care, and with power-of-attorney, handling financial matters.

Tax breaks for families caring for the elderly: Few realize that caring for a parent or elderly relative, even if the dependent doesn’t reside with you, qualifies you for a dependent care tax credit. If several children together are providing care, they can file a “multiple support agreement,” and if you hire a caregiver while you work or pay medical expenses, the expenses are deductible. If you would like to discuss a plan to help you afford elder care, lawyer Penny Harrington will be happy to meet with you – contact her Nashville law firm to make arrangements.

Nashville – Davidson County elder law attorney Penny Harrington represents families and individuals in communities including Franklin, Hendersonville, Gallatin, Mount Juliet, and Dickson. She focuses her practice on family law, estate planning, and probate. Throughout her career she has consistently advocated for the people of Tennessee. The firm’s office is conveniently located in the West End of Nashville, free parking is available, and the firm accepts credit cards for payment.