Elder Law - Cozen O'Connor

The Wall Street Journal explores the growing trend of including pets in estate planning, highlighting ways to ensure a beloved dog is cared for after one's death. The article discusses various options such as pet trusts and designated caregivers to provide for pets' ongoing needs and well-being. Read more here:

Extended reality (XR) technologies are proving to enhance both mental and physical health for children with disabilities, according to recent findings. These technologies provide engaging, immersive experiences that support therapeutic and developmental goals for young patients. Read more here:

Social Security is introducing new electronic initiatives to streamline and modernize its services, making it easier for individuals to manage their benefits online. These updates aim to improve accessibility, reduce wait times, and enhance the overall efficiency of the Social Security Administration. Read more here:

A new blood test has demonstrated the ability to accurately diagnose Alzheimer's disease 90% of the time, according to a recent study. This test could significantly enhance early detection and diagnosis for patients experiencing memory problems. Read more here:

The Justice Department has published a final rule aimed at improving access to medical care for individuals with disabilities, ensuring they receive necessary services and accommodations. This rule addresses barriers and mandates better accessibility in healthcare settings to enhance equitable treatment for disabled individuals. Read more here:

The article below examines the demanding and thankless role of managing a deceased person's estate, highlighting the emotional and logistical challenges faced by executors like Greg Kern, who unexpectedly spent over 200 hours dealing with his father-in-law's $430,000 estate. It emphasizes the importance of carefully selecting an executor and the need for thoughtful estate planning to minimize the burden on those appointed.

This article from the Wall Street Journal highlights how Medicare Advantage insurers have been adding questionable or inaccurate diagnoses to patient records, resulting in billions of dollars in additional payments from the government. These diagnoses, often made without the knowledge of the patients or their doctors, have inflated costs within the Medicare Advantage system, which was originally designed to save taxpayer money but has instead significantly increased healthcare spending.

The U.S. Senate Special Committee on Aging, led by Senator Bob Casey, has launched an investigation into A Place for Mom, a senior care referral service, due to allegations of deceptive practices. The probe focuses on claims that the service steers families toward facilities that pay high referral fees, often leading to seniors being placed in a substandard or overpriced care environment. Read more about it in the NBC News article.

This article discusses the Justice Department's publication of a final rule aimed at enhancing web and mobile app accessibility for people with disabilities. This move underscores the government's commitment to ensuring equal access to digital platforms and services, reinforcing protections outlined in the Americans with Disabilities Act. Read more about it here: https://lnkd.in/gqEjDyne

The article discusses a report from the Department of Health and Human Services' Inspector General revealing significant shortages in mental health care providers willing to accept Medicare and Medicaid patients. This shortage exacerbates access issues for individuals seeking mental health treatment, highlighting the need for policy changes and incentives to address the disparity. Read more here: