May is both National Older Americans Month and National Elder Law Month. These annual events honor seniors and offer plenty of resources to assist them with a variety of needs. It also reminds our elder law community just how important the needs of these generations are and helps us focus on developing new ways to support them, despite what we are facing as a state and a nation.
In fact, there are as many avenues of support from elder law attorneys as there are areas of senior-related concern. For example, seniors may need assistance drafting or reviewing an estate plan. They may be eligible for veterans benefits but require a skilled V.A. advocate. They may even need emergency assistance to assert their rights in an elder abuse situation. In each case, elder law attorneys stand ready to assist them.
Raising awareness, securing access to resources and obtaining effective assistance is what May is all about. Other areas of interest may include:
The U.S. Administration for Community Living leads the annual observance of Older Americans Month. The theme for 2020 is “Make Your Mark.” This is meant to encourage and celebrate the contributions that older adults make every day across the country.
National Elder Law Month dates back to a presidential proclamation in 1963. Elder law attorneys embraced the annual tradition and remain dedicated to helping seniors better understand their rights, concerns and legal options. Accordingly, the National Academy of Elder Law Attorneys, where our very own attorney, Matt Rheingans, as president of the Florida Chapter last year, has public seminars, Elder Law clinics and many other activities this month to bring seniors, their families and their legal communities together all for the purpose of serving elder adults.
Elder Law attorneys represent, counsel and assist seniors, including those who are younger with disabilities, and their families with a wide range of legal issues. Many government and nonprofit senior advocacy organizations also offer assistance, such as the National Council on Aging, the National Center on Elder Abuse and the National Consumer Voice for Quality Long-Term Care.
If you or someone you know would like more information or specific guidance on legal matters, we encourage you to contact our law practice. We are here for you during this important month, and throughout the year.
