There are a number of common terms that with which you may want to become familiar in order to plan and provide care.  (Note: if you’re thinking about your own future, the “you” in the definitions below, could apply either to someone you’re caring for or… for yourself.)

A legal document that states how you want medical decisions made if you become incapacitated and unable to make decisions.  It may include a Living Will and a Durable Power of Attorney 

A legal document in which you designate another person to act on your behalf if you become incapacitated or disabled.

A lawyer who specializes in the laws and issues that affect older adults.  To learn more, click here: National Academy of Elder Law Attorneys.

The process of planning and creating necessary legal documents that both establish the disposition of assets after death and help ensure that heirs can avoid legal, financial complications and unnecessary expenses and taxes.

A legal document in which you appoint someone to act on your behalf.  It can be limited in scope to cover certain specific responsibilities or be broader.  A medical power of attorney is sometimes called a Healthcare Proxy or a Durable Power of Attorney for Health Care.

A designee who has “power of attorney” to make medical decisions on your behalf in the event that you become incapacitated and unable to make decisions for yourself.

See Medical Directive and Advance Directive.

Also called a “living will,” this legal document specifies care decisions and medical care instructions in the event that you become disabled or incapacitated and are not able to make such decision or provide necessary instruction.  

The federal health insurance program for people age 65 or older.  Part A pays for inpatient hospital stays, care in a skilled nursing facility, hospice care, and some home healthcare.  Most people are automatically eligible for Part A when they turn 65.  You may choose to enroll in Part B, which requires premium payments each month. Part B helps pay for doctors’ services, outpatient hospital care, durable medical equipment and some medical services not covered by Part A.

Medicaid is a joint federal and state program that helps cover medical costs for people with low incomes and limited resources. It is not the same as Medicare, and coverage varies from state to state.  Some people may have dual eligibility for Medicare and Medicaid.

Temporary caregiving services that are provided when the primary caregiver needs time away.  Care is either provided in the home or at an alternate location for a short stay.  Temple University’s Center for Intergenerational Learning, a Coming of Age partner, runs one such program: Time Out. It links students with family caregivers to provide respite care services.   

A revocable living trust allows you to transfer ownership of your property to a separate entity called a trust, which is managed according to the rules you establish in the trust document for the benefit of the beneficiaries named in the trust.

A legal document that establishes your wishes for the distribution of your assets after your death.  If a will does not exist or is not properly made, your assets will be distributed according to the state’s intestacy statute.  To avoid unnecessary taxes and other expenses, consult a lawyer with expertise in wills and estate planning.