When to Hire a Home Care Service for an Older Adult

February 19, 2026
Brian Hicks
Elder Law, Estate Planning, Medicaid Planning, Our Blog, Senior Living

For seniors and their families, hiring a home care service can support independence for the older adult while reducing stress on the family unit. A home carer can assist with activities of daily living (ADLs), like bathing, dressing, preparing meals,...

Giving to Grandkids? Consider Gift Tax, 529 Plans, and More

December 11, 2025
Brian Hicks
Elder Law, Estate Planning, Our Blog, Senior Living, Wills & Trusts

Grandparents often are particularly generous to grandchildren as they see their family’s legacy continuing to the next generation. In many cases, grandparents feel they have ample resources, while their children or grandchildren may be struggling financially. Assistance with summer camp...

Getting Help for a Parent With Memory Loss

November 6, 2025
Tim Larson
Elder Law, Estate Planning, Medicaid Planning, Our Blog, Senior Living, Wills & Trusts

When an aging parent shows signs of memory loss, confusion, or cognitive decline, getting them to seek help can be a challenge. Delays in obtaining a diagnosis of dementia are common, with Sci Tech Daily reporting that it takes an...

Finding a Reputable Funeral Home

October 9, 2025
Tim Larson
Elder Law, Estate Planning, Our Blog, Probate & Trust Administration, Senior Living

Funeral homes are trusted with handling a person’s remains with care and sensitivity, coordinating burial or cremation, and sometimes hosting wakes and memorial services. In the United States, there are currently over 24,000 funeral homes. While funeral homes should operate ethically, that...

Consider These Medical Expenses When Planning for Retirement

September 25, 2025
Tim Larson
Elder Law, Estate Planning, Medicaid Planning, Our Blog, Senior Living

Many retirees pride themselves on years of careful financial planning, yet one major area often catches them off guard: the cost of health care. According to a recent Wall Street Journal article, even those who’ve saved diligently can be blindsided...

The Effects of Family Caregiving on Older Adults

September 4, 2025
Tim Larson
Elder Law, Estate Planning, Our Blog, Senior Living

Most people tend to marry someone who is within a few years of their own age. As a result, many married couples share the same cultural touchstones, social memories, and general values. Certain phases of life often coincide as they...

Can I Give My Kids $19,000 a Year and Apply for Medicaid?

August 14, 2025
Tim Larson
Elder Law, Estate Planning, Medicaid Planning, Our Blog, Wills & Trusts

If you have money to give your children, you certainly can, but you should be aware that you may face consequences should you apply for Medicaid long-term care coverage within five years after each gift. In 2025, you can give up...

Why Aren’t More Older Adults Thinking About Long-Term Care?

July 23, 2025
Tim Larson
Elder Law, Estate Planning, Medicaid Planning, Our Blog, Probate & Trust Administration, Senior Living, Wills & Trusts

After decades of handling our daily personal care needs without giving them a second thought, it is hard to imagine needing help with these tasks. However, research shows that about one in seven adults aged 65 or older will need...

Why the Social Security Retirement Age Is Now 67, Not 65

July 3, 2025
Tim Larson
Elder Law, Estate Planning, Our Blog, Senior Living, Wills & Trusts

In 2025, Americans born in 1960 are reaching age 65, a milestone that for decades has been associated with retirement. Many people still think of 65 as the age to claim full Social Security retirement benefits. But for those born...

Before You Move Your Parents to an Assisted Living Facility

June 12, 2025
Tim Larson
Elder Law, Estate Planning, Medicaid Planning, Our Blog, Senior Living

Assisted living communities can provide essential care and peace of mind for you and your aging parents. Identifying the most suitable facility for your loved one is a journey requiring matching your parents’ needs, budget, and lifestyle with desirable locations.