National Guard Called in for Staff Shortages

National Guard Called in for Staff Shortages

Written by Jill Roamer J.D.  Even in the beginning stages of the pandemic, advocates for nursing homes and other care facilities warned of staff shortages. And their trepidations have come true. Just last month, AARP reported that 30% of nursing homes they surveyed were experiencing staff shortages. Sadly, the report also showed that there were more than…

Special Needs & Service Animals

Special Needs & Service Animals

Written by Robert T. Nickerson The public notion on those with special needs that also have service animals is continuously evolving. Many businesses and even mobile apps like uber have become more friendly towards those that need a service animal with them at all times. The downside is that with more attention also leads to…

Is a Court-Appointed Conservator Personally Liable for Actions Taken?

Is a Court-Appointed Conservator Personally Liable for Actions Taken?

Written by Jill Roamer J.D. As a senior ages, they may no longer be able to look after their own affairs. This could be their medical affairs, financial affairs, or both. Hopefully, the senior planned early and had the appropriate powers of attorney in place. These documents allow another to act on the senior’s behalf…

Does Voluntary Payment of Past-due Nursing Home Charges Violate Federal Law?

Does Voluntary Payment of Past-due Nursing Home Charges Violate Federal Law?

Written by Jill Roamer J.D. Federal law prohibits a nursing home from requiring that past-due expenses be paid as a condition for a resident to be admitted to or continue to stay at a facility. But what if someone volunteers such payment? This issue was recently litigated in the Commonwealth of Kentucky Court of Appeals. In this case,…

Scary Planning for a Scary Future: A Halloween Estate Plan List

Scary Planning for a Scary Future: A Halloween Estate Plan List

Written by Robert T. Nickerson October marks two occasions. First is national estate planning awareness month (we know it’s not the most recognized of celebrations). Second, October means it’s Halloween!Some people are spending their time watching scary movies. Some are helping out their children getting their costumes ready for trick or treating. Some are just enjoying the autumn colors…

No Resource Cap for Medi-Cal?

No Resource Cap for Medi-Cal?

Written by Jill Roamer, J.D.  Last month, California legislatures passed AB 133, which is creating quite the stir in the elder law community. In particular, section 364 therein is especially surprising. It states, in its entirety:“SEC. 364. Section 14005.62 is added to the Welfare and Institutions Code, to read:14005.62. (a) (1) Notwithstanding any other law, for an applicant or beneficiary…