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Issues Dealing with Elderly Loved Ones

You have Elderly loved ones. They may live close by to you, or they may live far away. If they live close by, it is easier to observe them to determine what services you think they need. However, if they live far away it might be a lot harder. You may speak to them

on the telephone and not catch all the nuances that would alert you they need help. That is because you are not viewing them in person. 

What services are available for them? It is always good to contact the church or synagogue that they attend to see if they provide services to their congregants. Many religious agencies will send volunteers to your loved one’s house. The Catholic Churches have Eucharistic Ministers of the Sick, that will deliver Communion to parishioner who are physically unable to attend church. 

Meals on Wheels provides meals. Further, volunteers visit with the elderly to help them feel less isolated in the community. They also provide stockings, bags, and baskets to the elderly at Christmas. These are all services you can inquire about to help your loved ones. 

Further, certain organizations have day care for seniors. These places can give the caregiver a respite. If your elderly loved one allows, speak to their treating physician. Ask your senior relative if they will sign a HIPPA Release so you can discuss and review information on their health care and current condition with their doctors and providers. 

You should find out what estate planning documents your elderly relative has and who is designated as the Power of Attorney and Health Care Surrogate. 

What are your options if your elderly loved one will not accept your help? You could file for Guardianship. However, many people think twice about doing this because their elderly relative might not speak to them or be very angry if they do this. You could call Adult Protective Services who will investigate your elderly relative’s home situation. Is the house clean? Does it look like a hoarder lives there? If there is a pet? Is there pet fed? Is the house clean or in disarray and there are hazardous conditions? You could request that law enforcement do a wellness check on your elderly relative. 

How are your elderly loved ones providing food for themselves? Can they drive to the store? Can they order it online? Can they cook for themselves? Are they bathing? Are they dressed appropriately? These are all the things to think about. 

Importantly, are they being financially exploited by anyone? Or are they doing fine paying their own bills and are running their finances?

If you have more questions regarding a Marital and Family Law matter, you may call Ann Marie Giordano Gilden at Ann Marie Giordano Gilden, P.A. at 407-732-7620 and set an initial consultation. You may also visit my website at: https://www.annmariegildenlaw.com 

This article is for informational purposes only and does not form an attorney client privilege.