Louisville Elder Law Advocates

There are many decisions unique to getting older that require thoughtful planning and the advice and assistance of knowledgeable and experienced elder law attorneys. Our qualified lawyers are prepared to assist seniors:

• Plan for care in the event of a temporary or long-term incapacity
• Combat elder abuse
• Plan for Medicaid
• Protect assets
• Resolve or make nursing home plans

Incapacity – How to Prepare

The thought of being unable to manage your assets and your life is scary. Fortunately, there are things you can do now to plan for a time when you may be unable to make important personal and legal decisions. The attorneys at John H. Ruby & Associates are experienced in drafting wills and trusts as well as powers of attorney.

Elder Abuse

The unfortunate reality is that senior citizens are easy targets for crime, especially those seniors aged 80 and older. In Kentucky, if you know an elder is being abused, the law requires you to report it.

Abuse can be emotional, psychological, sexual, financial or any combination thereof. Neglect, either by the caregiver or the senior, also constitutes abuse. Elder abuse is often perpetrated by family members of the senior, including adult children. It makes no difference if the senior lives alone, with family, or in a nursing home – elder abuse is prevalent.

Elder abuse is taken seriously in Kentucky. If you have been, or are the victim of abuse, the attorneys at John H. Ruby & Associates can help you. Likewise, because of Kentucky’s strict elder abuse laws, if you have been falsely accused you need an experienced lawyer to help clear your name – we can help.

Medicaid Planning and Asset Protection

Medicaid is a federal health program available to individuals with disabilities and low income who also meet state and federal requirements regarding immigration, residency and U.S. citizenship. There are many features and benefits of Medicaid that are especially tailored to the elderly such as the Nursing Home Facility Services, in addition to services that allow you to stay in your home.

Medicare and Medicaid are different programs, with different eligibility requirements. Careful planning is required to ensure that you can access the benefits of these programs without compromising your retirement and estate planning goals you have worked so hard to achieve.

Our attorneys are here to help you set up a Qualifying Income Trust (QIT) which allows you to place your income into a trust account so you may be eligible for Medicaid. Medicaid offers many valuable services but due to the strict eligibility guidelines many seniors are unable to, or do not know how to, qualify. The elder law attorneys at our firm will make the law work for you.

Nursing Home Matters

Making the decision to live in a nursing home or assisted living facility can be daunting. It does not, however, need to be a decision based on cost. The Nursing Facility Services offered through Medicaid can pay for room and board; food, including dietary supplements and service; social activities and services; medical and surgical supplies; laundry; prescription medication; and other personal items the facility provides.

Our firm can help determine whether you are eligible for the Nursing Facility Services or assist you in making and financially planning for a nursing home if you do not qualify.

You do not need to make these important decisions by yourself. Our experienced attorneys are here to help you plan for future – contact us to discuss your needs.