Are you planning to make an appointment with a Florida estate planning attorney and create your estate plan? Have you been putting it off because you have so little time? Having an estate plan is critical, however, it is even more critical if you have a loved one with Down syndrome. When you have a loved one with Down syndrome it can result in both mental and physical challenges for your loved one. You and your loved one need planning protections in place for whatever the future holds for your loved one with Down syndrome.
As the parent of a loved one with Down syndrome you have been both an advocate and caregiver for your loved one. As a parent, advocate and caregiver, you are in charge of many daily tasks including, but not limited to, the following:
Personally caring for your loved one
Being sure to protect and advocate for your loved one’s rights
Making sure your loved one has access to education
Securing government benefits
Locating and regularly visiting doctors and specialists
Organizing and managing prescription medications
Keeping a stable home environment
Assist your loved one in all interactions, including with family members and the outside world
Always protecting your loved one from harm
Staying aware so that your loved one is not taken advantage of
With so much responsibility for your loved one, the idea that there might come a time when you are no longer here to care for your loved one can be frightening. That is why planning ahead and putting protections in place for your loved one with Down syndrome is so important.
In fact, this is where we can begin the discussion on estate planning and being sure that your loved one is protected should there come a time when you are no longer here to care for him or her. With a comprehensive Florida estate plan you can choose who your successor is for your loved one’s person as well as have a plan in place for your loved one’s financial stability. By planning ahead with your Florida estate planning attorney, who is experienced in this area, you can work together to create a care team that can act in your place when you are no longer here.
By working with your Florida estate planning attorney you will create your estate plan for your loved one with Down syndrome. Your plan will probably include special needs planning because estate planning in this area can include:
A special needs trust
Making choices regarding future healthcare decision maker
Planning for the financial security of your loved one
Transition plans to ensure someone can access government benefits
As the parent of a loved one with Down syndrome your daily care and attention is knowledge that is invaluable to anyone coming after you. You should consider making a detailed list of instructions on just what it is you do. In fact, we know many loved ones of family members with Down syndrome have fought significant battles for years and they know both what to do and what not to do when it comes to caring for their loved one. With that said, it is important for you to provide instructions for future advocates so they are not at risk of not knowing what to do in specific situations.
Your estate planning attorney has the experience to talk to you about what it means to create a special needs trust for your loved one with Down syndrome. You want to share your concerns with your attorney as well as what your goals for the future are. Our office is here to help you navigate the legal issues related to seeking and covering the cost of memory care. We encourage you to contact us and schedule a meeting with our attorneys.
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