Author: Meghan Parsons

5 things to look for in a senior living community

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Researching the best Senior Living Community for you or a loved can be time consuming. Here are 5 things to keep an eye out for.

Researching the best Senior Living Community for you or a loved can be time consuming.

Here are 5 things to assist in your search:

1. Friendliness of staff and residents

Do not base your Senior Living Community decision off solely of your interaction with the sales person.

If other staff introduces themselves to you it is a good indicator that they will be friendly when you live there.

Staff and residents interacting with one another is a good indicator that there will be less turn-over, which equates to residents receiving more consistent care and better service. Also, resident’s interacting with each other signals that you will be warmly welcomed.

2. Activities

  • Look at the activity calendar before the tour.
  • See if the activity(s) are being lead and how well attended they are.
  • Are the types of activities you are interested in are on the calendar.
  • Ask if you can recommend an activity or outing be added to the calendar.

3. Meals

Food choices, quality, nutrition and socialization will improve your overall health and well-being. Find out if meal times are scheduled, a window of time or all day to determine if it fits with your daily routine.Be sure to try a few meals in the communities you are considering to see how quickly the food is served, how residents interact during meal time as well as the overall presentation of the food, quality and variety on the menu.

4. Resident Satisfaction

If I were to recommend one thing to do before deciding on a community, it would be to speak with as many residents as possible. In speaking with the residents, you will find out more information than you would from speaking with staff. Keep in mind, there are some residents that, no matter how hard a community tries to please, will always be dissatisfied, which is why I recommend speaking with more than 5.

5. Staffing Ratios

Pay attention to how many caregivers you see during your tour.

Ask how many caregivers, med-aides, and nurses are on duty during each shift.

Keep in mind, many communities base the number of care staff off of the acuity levels of the residents.

The number of staff on duty is determined by the number of hours of caregiving needed to meet all the care needs of the residents.

Lastly, is the care staff serving meals or are there separate dining wait staff serving food in the dining room.

If I had a choice, I would prefer the person serving my food during mealtime wasn’t also assisting residents with showers and toileting.

Article Provided by:
Senior One Source
503-420-9011
www.SeniorOneSource.net

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Become your best advocate

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When it comes to your health, what is your peace of mind worth? It’s time to become your best advocate.

When it comes to your health, what is your peace of mind worth? It’s time to become your best advocate.

You can wait for an authorization from your primary insurance OR take matters into your own hands. It may be worth your peace of mind to pay out of pocket for a specialist, additional tests or a second opinion if it’s a possible torn ACL, Mammogram or MRI that’s not covered, or cancer screening  not approved, etc.

There is no doubt that we are living longer these days.  In fact, the recent data from the CDC suggests that beyond the age of 65 the average person will live another 19.3 years. With this is mind, it is critical to shift our thinking as we age in order to be healthier and navigate our extended longevity.

According to an article put out by Everyday Health online (August 2016), part of a perspective shift needs to encompass management of 15 chronic conditions that can impact our longevity in later years.

For the sake of professional scope within the field of medical imaging, we will focus briefly on the importance of two from the above referenced online article: osteoporosis and cancer.

Osteoporosis occurs when there is an imbalance between new bone formation and old bone resorption. The body may fail to form enough new bone, or too much old bone may be reabsorbed, or both. The two essential minerals for normal bone formation are calcium and phosphate. The diagnosis of this condition is through measuring the bone mineral density, which is typically performed by doing a DEXA or bone densitometry test. Taking steps now to protect against broken bones from a possible fall begins with the right knowledge.

Ranking third as a concern for our senior population is cancer. It is a fair statement to say that most of us have been touched in some way by this disease process. Our seniors are particularly vulnerable as they age and try to maintain an active lifestyle. The National Cancer Institute ranks the top five cancers by estimated new cases (January 2017) as follows:

  • Breast Cancer
  • Lung Cancer
  • Prostate Cancer
  • Colon and Rectal Cancer (combined)
  • Melanoma

Why does all this matter when it comes to having a fresh perspective on your health? The simple answer is this, part of a fresh perspective on your health is for you to become your best advocate.   Many disease processes can be treated and healing can begin if conditions are caught sooner. Our bodies often times will give indications that something is not working properly. Listen to it!

You say who, you say when. Be your own advocate; schedule your MRI, your mammogram, your ultrasound, or Your CT scan now. Even if you pay out of pocket, get the order for the test you need. You have a choice and your health is worth it!

Article Provided by:
Diagnostic Imaging  of Salem
503-877-1223
www.SalemImaging.com/dxa.php

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Balance and falls

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Falls are the leading cause of fatal injury and the most common cause of non-fatal trauma-related hospital admissions among older adults in America.

It is estimated that one out of three adults over the age of 65 lose balance and falls each year and less than half of those talk to their healthcare provider about it! Falls are the leading cause of fatal injury and the most common cause of non-fatal trauma-related hospital admissions among older adults in America. Falls result in more than 2.8 million injuries treated in emergency departments annually and more than 27,000 deaths.  In 2013, the total cost of fall injuries in the United States was $34 billion and is expected to reach $67.7 billion by the year 2020.

Unfortunately, many people who fall, even if they are not injured, develop a fear of falling. This fear may cause them to limit their activities, which leads to reduced mobility and loss of physical fitness and, in turn, increases their actual risk of falling.

A tendency to fall and symptoms of dizziness should not be dismissed as unavoidable consequences of aging.   There are four main systems that affect our balance and, while all of these systems can be affected by the aging process, there are things individuals can do to minimize the decline of these.   

Vision is one thing that affects our balance and falls . There are age-related changes that can occur with aging including cataracts, glaucoma, floaters, drooping eyelids and macular degeneration.  Getting regular eye exams by a professional is the best way to make sure you are minimizing these impacts on your overall eye health.

As we age, blood flow to the inner ear decreases and the number of nerve cells in the vestibular system decrease.

In addition, there are disease processes that can affect the vestibular system, including stroke, BPPV, Meniere’s disease, and vestibular neuritis.

Proprioception is the body’s ability to sense movement within the joints and the position of the joint in space.  This occurs by messages being sent from receptors in joints to the brain.  Some things that can affect these receptors as we age are diabetes, which can cause peripheral neuropathy, decreased flexibility and arthritis.

Lastly, muscle strength and flexibility can largely affect balance and falls. The weaker the muscles in the legs and core are, the more at risk for falls you may be. The Center for Disease Control recommends older adults get 30 minutes, at least 5 days per week, consisting of aerobic activity, resistance training, stretching and balance exercises.

Also, dizziness or feelings of unsteadiness are possible prescription medication side effects or drug interactions. Many prescription medications can cause dizziness, drowsiness and even weakness. Be sure to check with your physician if you have noticed a change in balance or dizziness, especially if there has recently been a change in medications.

If you have questions about the best exercise prescription for your specific needs, asking your physician for a referral to a physical therapist would be a great way to go.

Article Provided by:
PT Northwest
www.ptnorthwest.com

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Memory lapses: When to worry about dementia

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If you’re concerned about Alzheimer’s or dementia, you might mistake these “senior moments” for signs of mental decline. But there’s good news. Most memory lapses are nothing to worry about.

We’ve all had a memory lapses at one time or another. You can’t find your glasses anywhere — only to realize they’ve been on your head all along. Or you’re in the middle of a story and just can’t find the right word. (But it’s right there on the tip of your tongue!)

If you’re concerned about Alzheimer’s or dementia, you might mistake these “senior moments” for signs of mental decline. But there’s good news. Most memory lapses are nothing to worry about.

Beginning around age 45, you may notice everyday lapses happen more often. This is a natural part of aging. None of these are cause for alarm:

  • Absent-mindedness (such as forgetting your keys)
  • Not being able to retrieve a memory (the “tip-of-the-tongue” feeling)
  • Getting details wrong when recalling an event
  • Memories changing over time as you learn more information or talk to others
  • Memories changing because of your emotions in the current moment

When to seek help

Of course, some memory issues should prompt a visit to the doctor. One of the most common signs of trouble is suddenly forgetting how to do something you’ve done many times before. For example:

  • Getting lost in a familiar place
  • Neglecting hygiene, nutrition or safety
  • Becoming confused about the date or  year
  • Loss of short-term memory is also concerning. Signs include difficulty following directions or asking the same question over and over without retaining the answer.

Like the rest of the body, the brain shows signs of wear and tear as the years go by. Dementia risk increases steadily after age 65, so it is especially important for seniors to be watchful for these signs.

Heading off Alzheimer’s

So, if the risk of dementia rises with age, what’s a savvy senior to do? Studies have shown that the brain, like the rest of the body, improves with regular workouts. Exercising your mind doesn’t have to be a chore. Consider taking up one of these brain-building hobbies:

  • Gaming. A recent study suggested that older adults who played a fast-paced video game were 33 percent less likely to show signs of dementia or Alzheimer’s disease ten years later.
  • Volunteering. Give back to the community while keeping yourself sharp — libraries, animal shelters and soup kitchens are always looking for helping hands.
  • Gardening. In addition to being excellent physical exercise, gardening grows problem-solving skills and patience.
  • Music. Studies have shown that learning to play an instrument can enhance your memory, spatial reasoning and language skills.

Article Provided by:
Salem Health
503-814-5554
www.SalemHealth.org

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Grief: 10 Things NOT to say to someone grieving

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Grief is when someone close to us dies or begins hospice, it pulls on our heart, distracts our mind, and affects us physically. As a result, we feel fragile, or helpless. Well-intentioned friends try to console us, but struggle with what to say

Grief is when someone close to us dies or begins hospice, it pulls on our heart, distracts our mind, and affects us physically. As a result, we feel fragile, or helpless. Well-intentioned friends try to console us, but struggle with what to say. With recent experience being on the other side, I’d like to offer a few suggestions for what NOT to say to someone new to grief, and provide a few alternative comments.

1. “Cheer up. Your loved one wouldn’t want you to be sad.” When you care deeply for someone, you grieve deeply. You may need to be sad in order to get to the other side of grief.

2. “Focus on all the positive things in your life.” Even if someone appreciates the good things, that doesn’t change the feeling of monumental loss.

3.“She’s in a better place.” Even though the afterlife may seem spectacular, it doesn’t change the fact that my loved one is no longer with me, and I am sad because I have experienced that loss.

4.“Focus on all the good times.” Thinking about past memories can be painful, when you are realizing that you no longer have the opportunity to create new memories.

5. “How about those Seahawks?” Keeping conversations light is not a bad thing (depending on timing), but those grieving need someone who is willing to let them be real; someone who isn’t afraid to talk about the heavier topics.

6. “I know how you feel.” Sometimes a grieving person does not even know how they feel, so don’t pretend you do.

7. “She lived a full life.” Even if the person leaves an amazing legacy, it doesn’t account for time taken away.

8. “Call me if you need anything.” Instead, suggest a specific thing you will do- I will stop by next Wednesday with dinner, I will pick the kids up from school next week.

9. “She would not want you to be sad.” You honestly do not know what  someone else would want or how they would act.

10.“How are you doing?” This seems well intentioned, but it really just grazes the surface and 25 other people have already asked the question.

The common thread of the above comments is that it may feel that we are trying to minimize the situation.

Instead, try any of these:

  • I’m so sorry for your loss.
  • One of my favorite memories was when she…
  • I can’t imagine what you’re going through.
  • I don’t know how you feel, but I am here to help in whatever way you need me.
  • I wish I had the right words to say. Just know I care.

Personally, I had to learn to spend less time talking and more time listening.

Article Provided by:
www.RetirementConnection.com

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How to build a disaster supplies kit

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After an emergency, you may need to survive on your own for several days. Being prepared means having your own food, water and other supplies to last for at least 72 hours. A disaster supplies kit is a collection of basic items your household may need in the event of an emergency.

Make sure your disaster supplies kit is stocked with the items on the checklist below. Most of the items are inexpensive and easy to find, and any one of them could save your life.

After an emergency, you may need to survive on your own for several days. Being prepared means having your own food, water and other supplies to last for at least 72 hours. A disaster supplies kit is a collection of basic items your household may need in the event of an emergency.

Basic Disaster Supplies Kit

To assemble your kit, store items in airtight plastic bags and put your entire disaster supplies kit in one or two easy-to-carry containers such as plastic bins or a duffel bag.

A basic emergency supply kit could include the following recommended items:

  • Water – one gallon of water per  person per day for at least three days, for drinking and sanitation
  • Food – at least a three-day supply of non-perishable food
  • Battery-powered or hand crank radio and a NOAA Weather Radio with tone alert
  • Flashlight
  • First aid kit
  • Extra batteries
  • Whistle to signal for help
  • Dust mask to help filter contaminated air and plastic  sheeting and duct tape to shelter-in-place
  • Moist towelettes, garbage bags and plastic ties for personal sanitation
  • Wrench or pliers to turn off utilities
  • Manual can opener for food
  • Local maps
  • Cell phone with chargers and a backup battery

Additional Emergency Supplies

Consider adding the following items to your emergency supply kit based on your individual needs:

  • Prescription medications
  • Non-prescription medications such as pain relievers, anti-diarrhea medication, antacids or laxatives
  • Glasses and contact lens solution
  • Infant formula, bottles, diapers, wipes, diaper rash cream
  • Pet food and extra water for your pet
  • Cash or traveler’s checks
  • Important family documents such as copies of insurance policies,  identification, and bank account records saved electronically or in a waterproof, portable container
  • Sleeping bag or warm blanket for each person
  • Complete change of clothing appropriate for your climate and sturdy shoes
  • Household chlorine bleach and medicine dropper to disinfect water
  • Fire extinguisher
  • Matches in a waterproof container
  • Feminine supplies and personal hygiene items
  •  Mess kits, paper cups, plates, paper towels and plastic utensils
  • Paper, pencil, books, games, puzzles, or other activities for children

Maintaining Your Kit

After assembling your kit remember to maintain it so it’s ready when needed:

  • Keep canned food in a cool, dry place.
  • Store boxed food in tightly closed plastic or metal containers
  • Replace expired items as needed.
  • Re-think your needs every year and update your kit as your family’s needs change.

Kit Storage Locations

Since you do not know where you will be when an emergency occurs, prepare supplies for home, work and vehicles.

  • Home: Keep this kit in a designated place and have it ready in case you have to leave your home quickly. Make sure all family members know where the kit is kept.
  • Work: Be prepared to shelter at work for at least 24 hours. Your work kit should include food, water and other necessities like medicines, as well as comfortable walking shoes, stored in a “grab and go” case.
  • Vehicle: In case you are stranded, keep a kit of emergency supplies in your car.

Make a Plan

Next, determine any special assistance you may need, and include in your emergency plan.

Create a support network of family, friends, and others who can assist you during an emergency, and share your disaster plans with them. Practice your plan with them.

Make sure they have an extra key to your home, know where you keep your emergency supplies and how to use lifesaving equipment or administer medicine.

If you undergo routine treatments administered by a clinic or hospital, find out their emergency plans and work with them to identify back-up service providers.

If you have a communication-related disability, note the best way to communicate with you.

Don’t forget your pets or service animals. Not all shelters accept pets, so plan for alternatives. Prepare and emergency kit for your pet.

Consider loved ones or friends outside of your immediate area

A disaster can disrupt mail service for days or weeks. If you depend on Social Security or other regular benefits, switching to electronic payments is a simple, significant way to protect yourself financially before disaster strikes. It also eliminates the risk of stolen checks. The U.S. Department of the Treasury recommends two safer ways to get federal benefits:

Direct deposit to a checking or savings account. Federal benefit recipients can sign up by calling (800) 333-1795.

The Direct Express® prepaid debit card is designed as a safe and easy alternative to paper.

Article Resource:
Department of Homeland Security
www.Ready.gov

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Why your Will needs the advice of an attorney

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Writing your own Will can be like pulling your own tooth with a pair of pliers rather than going to the dentist.

Your will needs the advice of an attorney. It is possible to buy a Will form on-line and complete it on your own, without the help of an attorney. However, there are just so many things that can go wrong, from the wording of the document, to the required formalities of how it must be signed and witnessed before it can be valid. In spite of your best efforts, you may end up with a document that is no more effective than a notarized grocery list. Writing your own Will can be like pulling your own tooth with a pair of pliers rather than going to the dentist.

Most people that opt to prepare their own Will do so because they want to save money and don’t want to have to pay an attorney.  But, when mistakes are made, it is possible for their heirs and beneficiaries to spend thousands of dollars on court costs and attorney fees contesting a Will.  Even if no one contests your Will, the Court still has to follow the letter of the law. Many courts will not accept a Will if the Will is not properly executed (with the proper notarization and number of witnesses). Courts will also reject Will provisions that do not make sense. Even uncontested Wills can remain in expensive probate limbo.

Here are a few areas where things can go drastically wrong and where the advice of an attorney can be helpful:

1. Picking the right person as your Executor or Personal Representative.

2.  Putting conditions on a beneficiary’s right to receive inheritance.

3. Designating unusual end-of-life decisions.

4. Designating guardians for children.

5.  Coordinating beneficiary designations and your Will.

6. Dealing with blended families.

Even if your situation seems not that complicated, you can easily screw up filling out the forms.  I know of one situation where a Will left $200,000 to “{Insert name here}” rather than the intended beneficiary.  Also an attorney can flag issues that might be unique to your situation, such as providing for a disabled beneficiary or addressing long term care issues and Medicaid planning. Sometimes a trust will be the preferred method for managing an estate and avoiding probate.

On-line providers acknowledge that their services are “not a substitute for legal advice” and will often recommend that you consult your attorney before considering using their services.  For the cost of a few hours of attorney time, you can get an expertly drafted Will and legal advice, saving your heirs and beneficiaries confusion, time, and money.

Article Provided by:
Kathy Belcher
McGinty & Belcher Attorneys
503-371-9636
www.Mcginty-Belcher.com

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Alzheimer’s Network Program and Services

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As Alzheimer’s worsens over time, going from early stages to advanced, the responsibilities of the caregiver grow as well. Alzheimer’s network program and services is here to help.

Alzheimer’s disease is a progressive degenerative disease that not only affects the individual with loss of memory and cognitive abilities, but it also creates stress and significant hardships on the family who are often caregivers for their loved ones. As Alzheimer’s worsens over time, going from early stages to advanced, the responsibilities of the caregiver grow as well. All too often they are not prepared nor do they have an outlet to help them cope with the progressive loss of their loved one. Alzheimer’s network program and services is here to help.

At Alzheimer’s Network of Oregon, our vision is to help create an enlightened and empowered community where no one walks alone. Our mission is to provide compassionate support, education, and outreach to those impacted by Alzheimer’s disease and other related dementias. 

Alzheimer‘s Network of Oregon Adult Day Center-  To open the Fall of 2017!

Our adult day center can help to make a difference in a caregiver’s life. For those that need respite care services, we offer a safe, nurturing environment that will promote interaction and socialization for their loved one. Our day center will allow the caregiver to take care of errands, take a much-deserved break during the day for personal time, while feeling secure and confident that their loved one is safe and in good hands. 

Our other programs and services include:

Music and Memory iPod program

Alzheimer’s Network is proud to be able to offer the Music and Memory program to individuals.  We know that music has the power to positively influence those with Alzheimer’s disease and related dementias. Music creates moments for these individuals that elicit a positive interaction or emotions that facilitate cognitive function and stimulation.

Music Therapy

Our music therapy classes actively involve individuals in playing instruments and singing. Through their participation, they engage, laugh, sing and have fun.

Memory Screenings

We offer private memory screenings for individuals that are interested. The results are private and given to the individual to share with their Physician if warranted. It is not a diagnosis but merely a tool to be used to discuss with your clinician if you have other concerns.

Monthly Support Groups

Alzheimer’s Network offers monthly support groups for caregivers to meet with others that are in similar circumstances.

Care Navigation, Information and Referral Services and Educational Classes

We also offer educational classes and symposiums for caregivers, health care professionals and others that are interested.

Article Provided by:
Alzheimer’s Network
503-364-8100
www.Alznet.org

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How to choose a trustee

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Choosing a Trustee is not something to take lightly. When you have a living Trust, the bulk of your assets are owned by the Trust and, therefore, under the control of the Trustee.

Choosing a Trustee is not something to take lightly. When you have a living Trust, the bulk of your assets are owned by the Trust and, therefore, under the control of the Trustee. As long as you are capable (have legal capacity) of managing your own affairs, you are the Trustee. If you become incapacitated, the successor Trustee manages the assets in the Trust for your benefit. At your death, the Trustee is charged with managing or distributing the Trust Estate in accordance with the directions you provided in the Trust. Whom you name as Trustee depends greatly on your current situation and will most likely change over time. For instance, if you have young children, you will want to name someone to manage the estate for them should something happen to you. In this case, it is important to name someone who will manage the money for the children in the same way you would, and who will ensure it is used for the children’s best interests. The older we are, the more likely it is that someone will need to step in to assist us with our finances. While your children may be fine paying final expenses and closing up the estate, it is not a given that they are the best choice to take care of your finances if you are unable to manage them on your own. Family dynamics should be taken into consideration when deciding if children will be named as successor Trustees or not. If siblings do not get along, naming them as Co-Trustees could be disastrous. Even naming them one after the other could increase tensions between them, leading to higher costs in administering the estate (higher costs means fewer assets available to them for distribution). Or, the children may be lovely and wonderful and not so good with money. In this case, placing them in charge of your finances would seem less than ideal. When deciding on a Trustee, it is important to take into account all these factors. Often, it is a family member tasked with this job; however, it does not have to be and should not be unless there is a family member truly able and willing to do the work. If there is no one appropriate within the circle of family or friends, an outside, a neutral party may be the best choice. A professional fiduciary can be a perfect solution in this instance. As an estate planning attorney since 2001, I have seen time and time again where this is the better choice over the relative or friend. If you would like to discuss your specific situation with me, I would be happy to meet with you. My initial estate planning consultation is always free of charge, and I will help you determine the best course of action. As always, it is my honor and pleasure to serve.

Whom you name as Trustee depends greatly on your current situation and will most likely change over time. For instance, if you have young children, you will want to name someone to manage the estate for them should something happen to you. In this case, it is important to name someone who will manage the money for the children in the same way you would, and who will ensure it is used for the children’s best interests.

The older we are, the more likely it is that someone will need to step in to assist us with our finances. While your children may be fine paying final expenses and closing up the estate, it is not a given that they are the best choice to take care of your finances if you are unable to manage them on your own. Family dynamics should be taken into consideration when deciding if children will be named as successor Trustees or not. If siblings do not get along, naming them as Co-Trustees could be disastrous. Even naming them one after the other could increase tensions between them, leading to higher costs in administering the estate (higher costs means fewer assets available to them for distribution). Or, the children may be lovely and wonderful and not so good with money. In this case, placing them in charge of your finances would seem less than ideal.

When deciding on a Trustee, it is important to take into account all these factors. Often, it is a family member tasked with this job; however, it does not have to be and should not be unless there is a family member truly able and willing to do the work. If there is no one appropriate within the circle of family or friends, an outside, a neutral party may be the best choice. A professional fiduciary can be a perfect solution in this instance. As an estate planning attorney since 2001, I have seen time and time again where this is the better choice over the relative or friend. If you would like to discuss your specific situation with me, I would be happy to meet with you. My initial estate planning consultation is always free of charge, and I will help you determine the best course of action. As always, it is my honor and pleasure to serve.

Article Provided By:
Cheri Elson Sperber, Attorney at Law
Drescher
Elson Sperber, P.C.
info@AshlandOregonLaw.com
www.AshlandOregonLaw.com

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Estate planning

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Estate Planning: often avoided because “Estate planning is too confusing” or “I don’t have anything to leave behind.” By having an estate plan, however, one offers one’s family members peace of mind during a difficult period.

Estate Planning: often avoided because “Estate planning is too confusing” or “I don’t have anything to leave behind.” By having an estate plan, however, one offers one’s family members peace of mind during a difficult period.

The four main documents in an estate plan are: Will, Trust, Durable Power of Attorney for Finances, and Advance Directive for Health Care.

A Will is a legal instrument that permits a person to make decisions on how their estate will be distributed after death. Without a Will, State laws dictate how the estate is distributed. A Will does not avoid probate (the court-overseen process for distributing a person’s estate); however, it will ensure your assets are distributed to the people you desire.

One of the simplest ways to avoid probate is through a Trust. The three main “players” in a Trust are the Settlor (the person who’s trust it is, i.e. you), Trustee (the manager of the trust), and Beneficiary. In a conventional living Trust, the Settlor, Beneficiary, and Trustee are initially the same person. It is only when the Settlor (you) becomes unable to handle their own financial affairs that a successor Trustee (chosen by you) takes over the management of the Trust. The Trust assets are used for your benefit, with the remainder beneficiaries receiving an interest in the Trust only after your death (the way your estate passes under a Will).

The Durable Power of Attorney for Finances (DPA) names the person responsible for managing non-trust finances in the event you are unable to manage them yourself. Even in a Trust-centered estate plan, the DPA plays an important role, governing the assets held outside the Trust. In the event of your incapacity, your successor Trustee will take over and manage your Trust assets while your agent under the DPA will manage all non-trust assets.

An Advance Directive for Health Care allows you to name an agent to speak with the doctors and make health care decisions for you if you are unable to make them on your own.

When properly drafted, an estate plan is a powerful tool not only in the event of person’s death but also during the person’s life. When deciding on a professional to assist you in drawing up your estate plan, be sure to choose someone who specializes in this area of law, so that your plan works effectively not only after your death but during your life as well.

Estate plans are designed to grow and develop as we do and should be reviewed periodically. I recommend reviewing your plan on an annual basis – you may not need to change it each year, but looking at it each will help keep it fresh in your mind, as well as help ensure any necessary changes are caught and addressed quickly.

Article Provided By:
Cheri Elson Sperber, Attorney at Law
Drescher
Elson Sperber, P.C.
info@AshlandOregonLaw.com
www.AshlandOregonLaw.com

 

 

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