Healthcare Directives

Healthcare Directives & Power of Attorney

Unexpected medical situations can arise at any time. Without proper legal documents, family members may face barriers when trying to assist with healthcare decisions.

Our Connecticut elder lawyers help older adults create:

Healthcare Power of Attorney – Designating a trusted person to make medical decisions when needed.
Living Wills & Advance Directives – Stating medical preferences for treatments and end-of-life care.
Financial Power of Attorney – Assigning a responsible individual to handle financial matters if the senior is unable to do so.

These legal protections prevent confusion, legal battles, and unnecessary medical interventions.

Healthcare Decision-Making Documents

Clear decision-making authority is crucial as individuals age. In Connecticut, healthcare proxies, HIPAA releases, and advance directives are not just recommended—they’re often necessary.

Elder law lawyers draft:

Durable healthcare powers of attorney
Living wills specifying end-of-life care
HIPAA authorization forms to allow loved ones to access medical records

Powers of Attorney and Advance Directives

If you lose capacity, the absence of these documents can lead to costly, time-consuming court processes. We ensure they are:

Legally enforceable
Customized to your wishes
Accepted by your financial institutions and healthcare providers

Elder Care Law Questions

What does an elder law attorney do?

We assist with long-term care planning, public benefits, powers of attorney, housing transitions, and protection from exploitation.

When should I start planning for aging?

Ideally in your 50s or early 60s. However, it’s never too late to begin protecting your legal and financial future.

Can I protect my home from Medicaid recovery?

Yes—with legal tools like irrevocable trusts, life estate deeds, and planning around the five-year look-back period.

Is legal capacity required to update a will or trust?

Yes. We assess your capacity before proceeding with any changes and work closely with healthcare professionals if needed.

Can a family caregiver be paid in Connecticut?

Yes. With a properly structured agreement, family caregivers can receive compensation without jeopardizing Medicaid.

How do I find an elder law attorney near me in Connecticut?

Disability Planning Partners serves clients statewide and offers virtual consultations for accessibility.

What’s the difference between estate planning and elder law?

Estate planning focuses on what happens after death. Elder law also addresses healthcare, housing, benefits, and quality of life while you’re alive.

Where can I find more resources?

We recommend visiting NAELA, CTLawHelp.org, and CT’s Long-Term Care Ombudsman.

If you’re planning ahead—or facing a new challenge—Disability Planning Partners can help you protect your rights and your future.