Elder law is a branch of legal practice that deals with all matters relating to the welfare of aged individuals. To understand elder law, it helps to know some of the various legal issues that fall under its jurisdiction. Below are three facts about elder law and a few of the concerns it encompasses.

3 Facts About Elder Law

1. End-of-Life Planning Is a Part of Elder Law

Any legal documents that relate to end-of-life care and planning are typically the domain of elder law. Advanced Healthcare Directives and living wills, for example, allow you to state your wishes for medical care should you become unable to make decisions for yourself; your preferences for life-sustaining, and life-resuscitating measures are clearly and legally defined. Also, a power of attorney, in which you nominate someone to make legal- and health care-related decisions on your behalf, is a facet of elder law.

2. Elder Law Looks Out for the Rights of Aging People

It's not just end-of-life issues covered by elder law. Aging people face unique problems that may not be adequately managed by other legal practice areas. When older individuals experience problems with housing or incur injuries because of medical malpractice, they might be better served and protected by elder law statutes.

3. An Elder Law Attorney Can Help You Tackle Social Security or Medicare Issues

Older folks often rely on Social Security and Medicare for their financial and health care needs. But these systems are far from perfect, and deserving people can be prevented from having the resources they need. Those who work in the elder law field understand how Social Security and Medicare can be central to an aging person's life and health, and they can help clients find the solutions most needed.

The elder law attorneys of MacVean, Lewis, Sherwin & McDermott, P.C., in Middletown, New York, have been serving the Hudson Valley region for over 130 years. They also offer representation in corporate law, personal injury, employment law, and several other practice areas. Call (845) 343-3000, visit them online, or reach them via Facebook to arrange an appointment. Regardless of age or ability, you deserve to have quality legal guidance — call MacVean, Lewis, Sherwin & McDermott today.