Posts by Hurley Elder Care Law
Help Seniors Beat the Heat
With increasing summer temperatures, helping seniors beat the heat is critical. Heat can be deadly to seniors, in fact, nearly 400 Americans die from heat waves each year and most of them are elderly people. When in heated conditions, people often do not realize when they are overheating and in danger. Older people can’t handle…
Read MoreNursing Home Medicaid for Married Couples – Asking for an Increase in Spousal Diversion
Here’s a great question that we received just the other day: My mom lives in an assisted living community and my dad lives in a nursing home. If my dad goes on Medicaid, will she be allowed to keep any of his income? Yes, Medicaid has a Monthly Maintenance Needs Allowance (MMNA) that allows the…
Read MoreNon-surgical Knee Procedure
“Cooled radio frequency ablation” is a new non-surgical knee procedure that was approved by the Food and Drug Administration. It is not for everybody, but this option is for people who cannot have surgery or are not yet ready to have a knee replacement. The marketing name is “Coolief” and it eases pain rather…
Read MoreThe Danger of PPIs for Acid Reflux
Acid reflux or GERD (gastroesophageal reflux disease) is the rise of stomach acid into the esophagus, which causes heartburn. Treating acid reflux with PPIs or H2 blockers is a common practice, with approximately 15 million Americans taking PPIs. In the past few months two studies have found that PPIs (proton pump inhibitors) may be linked…
Read MorePTSD in Older Individuals
The United States Department of Veterans Affairs (VA) reports that “posttraumatic stress symptoms can emerge or re-emerge late in life,” as age-related factors affect preexisting mental health issues or lead to the development of new ones. Up to 15% of older adults may experience and struggle with post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD) symptoms, and reasons for…
Read MoreThe PSA Test for Prostate Cancer
Five years ago, the U.S. Preventive Services Task Force recommended against routine blood tests to measure your level of prostate-specific antigens – the PSA test. The task force now recommends men 55 to 69 should talk with their doctor about whether to have the test. Following are highlights from an interview with Dr. Muhammad Nasir, Senior…
Read MoreHealthy Living for Men and Boys
It starts early! Findings suggest that females at all ages are healthier than males. It is vital to recognize that many of the major health risks that boys and men face today can be prevented and treated with early diagnosis. This is a man’s issue, but women also need to take an active role. We…
Read MoreNursing Home Medicaid for Married Couples – Protecting the House from Medicaid Recovery
A nursing home resident can own a home and still qualify for Medicaid. The home, however, can be subject to Medicaid estate recovery after the resident dies. When Medicaid helps pay for nursing home care, the state must attempt to recoup from the beneficiary’s estate whatever amount was paid on the resident’s behalf; this is…
Read MoreThe Secrets to Vitality as You Age are Featured in “If You’re Not in the Obit, Eat Breakfast”
What do Dick Van Dyke, legendary comic author Stan Lee, and Mel Brooks have in common? They are all thriving well into their 90s! HBO Documentary Films is taking a look at aging with their latest film, “If You’re Not in the Obit, Eat Breakfast.” The title was inspired by comedy legend Carl Reiner’s philosophy…
Read MoreNursing Home Medicaid for Married Couples – Rental Properties
Here’s a great question that we received just the other day: My wife has moved into a nursing home. In addition to our home, we own two rental properties. Our income is good, but it is not enough to pay for the nursing home. We are receiving mixed information about whether or not she can…
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