As you go through life as an adult, the thought of being responsible for your parents to one degree or another may not enter your mind for quite a long time. However, it is important to understand the fact that there may come a time when your parents need your assistance.
Most of our nation’s elders will need some form of living assistance eventually, and statistically speaking this usually comes from their children, other relatives, and/or friends. In fact, 70% of the care that is provided to senior citizens comes from personal support systems.
The above having been stated, an unpaid caregiver who has his or her own responsibilities can only do so much, and sometimes the care that is needed exceeds the capabilities of the family.
According to the United States Department of Health and Human Services, there is a 40% chance that an individual who reaches the age of 65 will reside in a nursing home at some time.
It should be noted that nursing home care is extraordinarily expensive, with the average annual cost in northern California entering the six figures. These costs are on the rise, and one out of every 10 people who needs nursing home care resides in the home for five years or more.
If you have an aging parent or parents, you may have any number of concerns. The best way to get good information and advice is to sit down and discuss everything in detail with a licensed and experienced elder law attorney who serves the community here in Campbell. Your lawyer will gain an understanding of your family situation and apprise you of all of your options.
We, at the Litherland, Kennedy & Associates, APC, Attorneys at Law, also have a geriatric care manager as part of our team. This allows us to provide both the elements of protecting and preserving the income and assets of the elder or disabled individual with the assessment and coordination of the care needs for the individual.
