As an experienced estate planning attorney, I have clients that are serving as the caregiver for an elderly or disabled individual.  In fact, a family member frequently serves as the caregiver to other members of their family.  Since most of those caregivers must work outside the home, in addition to being a caregiver, they regularly experience conflicts between competing responsibilities and are worried about what will happen to their elderly or disabled loved one if they die first.  Lastly, caring for an elderly or disabled family member can take a toll on the caregiver from a physical perspective, an emotional perspective AND a financial perspective.

November is National Family Caregivers Month.  It is a time to recognize and honor family caregivers across the country and it offers an opportunity to raise awareness of caregiving issues, educate communities, and increase support for caregivers.  If you are a caregiver now, or if you are concerned that you may need to step into that role in the near future, please visit the Long Term Care section of the Administration for Community Living website.