Seniors can learn about their legal rights on a variety of topics at free events in more than 100 communities across the state over the next few months as part of the Massachusetts Bar Association’s Elder Law Education Program. The program, which is presented with the assistance of the Massachusetts Chapter of the National Academy of Elder Law Attorneys, matches attorneys with councils on aging or senior centers throughout the state to make the free presentations about the law.
With the assistance of volunteers from the MBA’s Probate Law Section Council, the MBA has prepared a revised and expanded edition of “Taking Control of Your Future: A Legal Checkup,” a resource guide that was distributed to all participating senior service related agencies and attorney volunteers this year. The guide contains information on a wide range of legal issues affecting the lives of seniors and is updated each year. Topics include:
- Twenty commonly asked questions in elder law;
- The rights of a nursing home resident;
- Aid and attendance veterans benefits;
- Elder abuse, neglect, financial exploitation;
- Reverse mortgages, Medicare/Medicaid changes
The program, which has operated since 1987, is presented with the generous assistance and cooperation of the Massachusetts Chapter of the NAELA. Check with your local senior center or council on aging to find out if a program will be hosted in your community.