Elder Law: “Minnesota Scores High In Long-Term Care According To New Study By AARP”

Since most of us will need some sort of long-term care when we’re over 65, the study put out recently by AARP, the SCAN Foundation, and The Commonwealth Fund may interest you – Minnesota ranks in the highest eight (8) states, according to the 2014 Long-Term Services and Supports (LTSS) Scorecard (updated from their 2011 rankings). Whew! Minnesotans now know what they pay dearly for is indeed among the best in quality and availability. I know this study doesn’t solve the affordability issue for many Minnesotans, but I thought this quality/availability ranking ought to at least raise our spirits and pride about the quality of care we provide and receive here, compared to other states in the Union. Here’s the link to the article.

http://www.nextavenue.org/blog/best-and-worst-states-long-term-care?utm_source=Next+Avenue+Email+Newsletter&utm_campaign=a44a751aac-08_26_2014_SCAN&utm_medium=email&utm_term=0_056a405b5a-a44a751aac-165014273

And, for those of you interested in the LTSS Scorecard, here’s the link for the current rankings:

http://www.longtermscorecard.org/

The article does a great job of reminding even the eight best-performing states about the challenges that remain – most importantly affordability, and prior planning (which should include open communication with family members about hopes and fears as we age). Take a moment and check out the average cost of care per year and the appallingly low number of people who talk about and plan for their long-term care needs as they age.

How can professionals assist you with this planning? Depending on your socio-economic situation, your current age and health, your family situation, and your attitude toward planning ahead, financial planners and attorneys (Elder Law Attorneys specialize in many of these areas) can be of great help. I practice in the area of Elder Law, so I feel the most comfortable reminding readers of just a few areas that an Elder Law Attorney may be able to help:

• Estate Planning
• Capacity Issues (Health Care Directives, Powers of Attorney, Guardianship, Conservatorship)
• Family Care-Giving
• Medical Assistance
• Vulnerable Adult Protections
• Probate and Will Contests
• Nursing Home Litigation
• Social Security

If you’re a senior citizen, a family member, or a caregiver and you’re concerned about your long-term care planning or needs, contact an Elder Law Attorney and let them assist you in sorting out your options and making your decisions – helping you decide what matters most.

ALL READERS:    This blog is not, nor shall it be deemed to be, legal advice or counsel. This blog does not create an attorney-client relationship with any reader. It is designed to encourage thoughtful consideration of important legal issues with the expectation that readers will seek professional advice from a licensed attorney.