Have you considered what type of living situation you would prefer when you get older? It’s a thought that many New Yorkers avoid. However, the future is not set. Whether it’s due to a medical crisis or the natural progression of aging, there may come a time when you need long-term care services. 

The New York Department of Health estimates that over five million New Yorkers will be over age 60 by 2030. Long-term care planning in Westchester County is critical because the cost of nursing home and home care services is extraordinarily high. Developing a well-structured plan now can help you afford and access long-term care while protecting your hard-earned savings.  

At Amoruso & Amoruso LLP, our estate planning and elder law attorneys have the legal skills and knowledge to help you and your family plan for the future. Contact us today to learn what our law firm can do for you.

What Is Long-Term Care?

Long-term care is a collection of services meant to meet someone’s healthcare or personal needs when they can’t perform everyday activities themselves. Contrary to what many people think, long-term care is not just for older people. The need for it can arise without warning. For example, a car accident could result in a brain injury that leaves an individual incapacitated at age 30, resulting in the immediate need for long-term care. Making long-term care planning a part of a comprehensive estate planning strategy can account for any contingency.  

Why Is Long-Term Care Planning Essential In Westchester County?

As New York residents age, the demand for long-term care facilities grows. The estimated annual rate for a nursing home in Westchester County is currently around $170,000. This price tag and the following other considerations make long-term care planning essential: 

  • Financial implications – Establishing a plan before you need long-term care is necessary to protect your assets and ensure the financial security of your heirs. 
  • Impact on family and loved ones – Working with an elder law attorney to outline your wishes for long-term care can alleviate the burden your family would experience if you had no plan. 
  • Avoiding crisis-driven decisions – Because the need for long-term care can arise unexpectedly, having a plan prevents making hasty decisions in an emergency. 
  • Legal considerations – Your attorney can discuss estate planning tools and other strategies to help you afford long-term care without depleting your assets. 

Key Components of Long-Term Care Planning

At Amoruso & Amoruso LLP, we provide clients with comprehensive estate planning services. As part of your long-term care planning, we will advise you concerning: 

  • Medicaid planning – Medicaid planning involves structuring your assets to meet the strict thresholds set by the government for home care or nursing home Medicaid. It is a way for many New Yorkers to afford long-term care. 
  • Your personal needs – You may already have ideas about an ideal long-term care plan. Our attorneys can evaluate your needs and family situation to develop a realistic plan unique to you and your wishes. 
  • Financial planning – We will review your financial goals and help you plan for your future long-term care needs while maintaining your assets. 
  • Estate planning integration – Because of the comprehensive nature of our services, you can expect your long-term care plans to fully integrate into your estate plan.  

What a Westchester County Long-Term Care Lawyer Can Do for You

Early preparation is the key to successful long-term care planning. At Amoruso & Amoruso LLP, we can help you understand your long-term care options and discuss strategies to afford them.  Call or contact us today for an initial consultation with a member of our legal team.