As families around the globe struggle with issues caused by the spread of Covid-19, our seniors continue to face important financial and emotional decisions affecting their housing options. The question of whether to stay in your current home or seek an alternative housing solution is both difficult and prevalent – particularly during these unprecedented times.
This year, despite the boundaries and limitations presented by the pandemic, the 9th annual Senior Law Day event – sponsored by the Alexandria Bar Association and Senior Services of Alexandria – will tackle these issues virtually. Specifically, Senior Law Day will address the very important question that many seniors may inevitably ask: “Should I stay or should I go?”
According to Natalie Page of Life and Estate Planning Law Center, “one of the problems people face when trying to plan ahead is not knowing where to start or what questions to ask. We want people to understand some common pitfalls and misconceptions about programs and to provide some practical tools and information so people have a starting point for planning for care, whether they choose to stay or go.”
The event will take place over three consecutive Fridays in September; on Sept. 11, 18, and 25 from 2-3 p.m. via Zoom. The schedule is as follows:
- Sept. 11, 2-3 p.m. – “Housing Considerations”
Panelists: Rachel Baer, Esq., Family First Law Group, PLLC; Heidi Garvis, Planning for Senior Life; and Peter Crouch, McEnearney Associates Realtors.
Description: Panelists will discuss a broad range of housing considerations including aging in place and home modifications, various types of senior communities, and various legal documents to consider when cohabiting or leasing to others (including family members and caregivers).
- Sept. 18, 2-3 p.m. – “Financial Concerns”
Panelists: Natalie Page, Esq., Life and Estate Planning Law Center; Tom West, Signature Estate and Investment Advisers; and Helen McIllvaine, Director of Housing for the City of Alexandria.
Description: Panelists will address what long-term care covers, the difference between Medicare and Medicaid, real estate tax exemptions, and Alexandria programs for older adult homeowners.
- Sept. 25, 2-3 p.m. – General Estate Planning and Documents
Panelists: Gretchyn Meinken Esq., Wade Grimes Friedman Meinken & Leischner PLLC; and Mary Horner, Esq., Legal Services of Northern Virginia.
Description: Panelists will discuss why it is more important than ever to have legal documents in place to ensure appropriate care and effective management of an estate.
Attendees will be able to register and submit questions in advance, as well as during each panel, to be answered during the live interactive panels via ZOOM.
Attendees can register at https://seniorservicesalex.org/. For more information, call (703) 836-4414, ext. 110 or email Lindsay Hemphill at Senior Services at admin@seniorservicesalex.org.