Elder Law & Estate Planning News

When Congress passed the Inflation Reduction Act in 2022, part of the goal was to lower prescription drug costs for Medicare patients. However, for millions of seniors in long-term care facilities, a little-noticed side effect of that law is starting to hinder their access to those drugs.

A 2025 federal budget law was promoted in part as a way to protect Medicaid for those who truly need it. But for the roughly 12 million people who rely on both Medicare and Medicaid, the law creates immediate risks.

A federal law going into effect in 2028 will cap the amount of home equity a person can have and still qualify for Medicaid long-term care at $1 million.

While most people say they are worried about affording long-term care, few take steps to discuss it with a financial planner.

Socially assistive, AI-powered companion robots are being tested to help older adults who prefer to remain in their homes rather than enter institutional care.

Today, financial exploitation happens quietly – and digitally. Instead of stolen checks or forged signatures, abuse may involve compromised passwords, unauthorized online account access, or highly convincing phone calls or emails designed to pressure an older adult into sending money.

AARP recently published its annual list of the Top 100 Places to Live for Older Adults.

Understanding Medicare’s rules for care in a skilled nursing facility (SNF) is useful for older adults, people with disabilities, and family caregivers, particularly because confusion about SNF coverage can lead to unexpected bills.

Aging in place and safety are not mutually exclusive. Many practical steps can reduce risks and provide reassurance to concerned family members.

New rules are changing who must meet work requirements in order to receive SNAP benefits. Changes include moving the age requirement to 64 years old (up from 54 years old), which means many older adults may now have to work or volunteer to remain eligible for these benefits. 

To stay eligible for Medicaid, most adult Medicaid enrollees who are between the ages of 19 and 64 and who do not meet work requirement exemptions will need to document that they meet a minimum of 80 hours per month of qualifying activities, such as community service or enrollment in school.

If you are admitted to a hospital as a Medicare patient, the hospital may try to discharge you before you are ready. It is important to know your rights and how to appeal.

As of the 2025 tax year, many older Americans may realize a new tax benefit thanks to a provision in the One Big Beautiful Bill Act.

Existing Social Security Disability Insurance (SSDI) rules grant specific accommodations based on age, particularly for workers over age 50. However, changes to these age-related criteria could significantly increase the number of older adults whose disability benefits applications are denied.

The cost of 15 high-priced Medicare Part D drugs, used to treat conditions such as cancer and diabetes, will be significantly lower starting in 2027.