Recent findings show an information gap among Medicaid recipients regarding the need to re-enroll for benefits after the COVID-19 Public Health Emergency (PHE) ends. Medicaid recipients are inconsistently informed about the end of the PHE and its effect on their health insurance benefits in terms of the amount of information they have and where they receive their information.
The PHE has been extended several times. The latest extension expires on January 11, 2023, with a 60-day notice before the end of the PHE.
The Families First Coronavirus Response Act
Congress enacted the Families First Coronavirus Response Act (FFCRA) in March 2020. The FFCRA prohibits states from disenrolling Medicaid recipients until the PHE ends. In addition to the ban on disenrollment, the FFCRA stopped the redetermination of eligibility. This kept more than 20 million people covered by health insurance during the COVID-19 pandemic.
When the PHE ends, the FFCRA provisions that keep low-income people insured will end, leaving many people without benefits after the redetermination of eligibility resumes.
Have You Heard About the Public Health Emergency Ending?
Statistically, most people covered by Medicaid do not know that the PHE is coming to an end. The end of the PHE means that Medicaid health insurance benefits will also end. Studies show the following rates of information among Medicaid participants:
Information Medicaid Participants Have: Statistics
Medicaid participants are getting information about the end of the PHE and health insurance benefits from the following variety of sources:
There is a significant information gap among Medicaid participants. The inconsistency of information may lead some Medicaid enrollees to suffer negative consequences, including unexpectedly losing their health insurance coverage.
There is no one person or agency that everyone agrees should inform Medicaid participants about when redetermination resumes. Currently, Medicaid enrollees are responsible for staying updated about the end of the Public Health Emergency.
To stay updated on the end of the PHE and any changes to Medicaid benefits, keep an eye on your state’s Medicaid website, check your mail or email for important correspondence, and visit the Medicaid.gov website for new information.
How Hiring a Caregiver Can Help with Activities of Daily Living: A Guide for Seniors and Family Caregivers Aging brings both beauty and challenges. With years of life experience come stories, wisdom, and resiliencebut also, often, a gradual decline in physical and cognitive function. For many seniors and their families, the day arrives when assistance with routine daily tasks becomes necessary. These are the activities of daily livingbathing, dressing, preparing meals, managing medication, and getting from place to place. Its here that organizations like Seniors Helping Seniors Pittsburgh Northeast step in to make a profound difference. This editorial is for family caregivers who are doing their best to support aging parents or loved ones, and for seniors who may be quietly struggling to keep up with the basics of independent living. If youre asking yourself whether its time to get help, or what kind of help is best, the answer might be simplerand more empoweringthan you think. Understanding the Importance of Activities of Daily Living (ADLs) Activities of daily living (commonly known as ADLs) are the essential tasks a person must perform every day to take care of themselves. These include bathing, toileting, dressing, eating, walking or transferring, and maintaining personal hygiene. Instrumental activities of daily living (IADLs), like managing finances, transportation, cooking, cleaning, and medication management, are equally vital for independence but often more complex. As individuals age, even one or two of these tasks can become difficult. Family members often try to step in, but caregiving can become overwhelming, particularly when balancing work, children, and household responsibilities. This is where in-home caregiving services can be a life-changing solution. Why In-Home Care Makes a Difference Hiring a caregiver from a trusted provider like Seniors Helping Seniors allows seniors to stay in the comfort and familiarity of their own home while receiving the personalized support they need. Unlike assisted living facilities, in-home care is flexible and deeply tailored to the individuals unique needs and personality. Caregivers can assist with: Personal care: helping with hygiene, bathing, and dressing Meal preparation: ensuring nutritional needs are met with care Medication reminders: helping avoid missed doses or incorrect use Mobility support: reducing fall risk and maintaining independence Transportation: getting to appointments, social events, or grocery stores Companionship: offering emotional support, reducing isolation, and improving mental health This isnt just about assistanceits about preserving dignity, building trust, and enhancing quality of life. Seniors Helping Seniors: A Unique and Human Approach What makes Seniors Helping Seniors Pittsburgh Northeast unique is their peer-based model. Many of their caregivers are seniors themselves, offering an unmatched level of empathy and understanding. This dynamic creates a bond that feels less like receiving care and more like sharing life with a trusted friend. That relationship matters. For seniors who may feel that accepting help means surrendering independence, working with someone of a similar age and shared experiences can shift that perspective. It becomes a partnershipnot a dependency. Seniors are more likely to accept support when it comes from someone they can relate to, someone who gets it. Supporting Family Caregivers Through Professional Help Family caregiving is a noble and loving act, but its not without its toll. Burnout, stress, and even resentment can build up when caregivers stretch themselves too thin. Hiring a caregiver to support activities of daily living gives families breathing room. It ensures that their loved one receives professional, consistent care while allowing family members to return to their roles as spouses, sons, daughters, and friends. Instead of spending time worrying about whether medications were taken or if mom made it up the stairs safely, family members can focus on enjoying time together, knowing that the essentials are in trusted hands. Promoting Healthy Aging and Independence When seniors receive the help they need with ADLs, something beautiful happensthey often regain confidence and a sense of control over their lives. Instead of feeling defeated by daily tasks, theyre empowered to focus on what matters: hobbies, conversations, faith, memories, and relationships. Research continues to show that aging at homewith the right level of supportleads to better physical health, stronger emotional well-being, and longer life expectancy. Services like those offered by Seniors Helping Seniors dont just make life easier. They make it better. Why Now is the Right Time Too often, families wait until theres a crisisafter a fall, hospitalization, or health emergencybefore considering home care. But proactive planning is far more effective and less stressful. Hiring a caregiver before things become unmanageable allows seniors to ease into support without fear or resistance. It also creates a smoother transition for everyone involved, including family caregivers who can gradually hand off responsibilities without guilt. Seniors Helping Seniors Pittsburgh Northeast offers flexible scheduling, affordable care options, and a personal touch that makes all the difference. Their caregivers aren't just helperstheyre companions, encouragers, and lifelines for both seniors and their families. A Call to Action for Families If youre a caregiver whos starting to feel stretched, or a senior beginning to notice that simple tasks are more exhausting than they used to be, now is the time to explore in-home caregiving. Visit Seniors Helping Seniors Pittsburgh Northeast or call their local office to learn more about how their team can support you or your loved one. It might be the most important step you take toward peace of mind, independence, and a life filled with care and dignity Lets stop thinking of caregiving as a last resort. Its an investment in independence, a gift to the whole family, and a compassionate bridge to better days.
When it comes to aging with dignity and security, having a plan in place is one of the most powerful gifts you can give yourself and your family. Yet for many older adults and their loved ones, the legal side of agingestate planning, long-term care arrangements, guardianship, and navigating government benefitscan feel overwhelming and complicated.Thats where an elder law attorney comes in. Specializing in the unique legal needs of seniors, an elder law attorney can be a trusted advisor helping you protect your assets, plan for the future, and secure the care you deserve. In this post, well break down what elder law is, how an elder law attorney can help, and when its time to seek their support.What Is Elder Law?Elder law is a legal specialty focused on issues that affect older adults. This area of law addresses both the legal and financial aspects of aging, including estate planning, healthcare decision-making, long-term care planning, elder abuse prevention, and more.Unlike general attorneys, an elder law attorney has in-depth knowledge of senior-specific concerns, such as Medicaid eligibility, veterans benefits, powers of attorney, and guardianship laws. Their holistic approach ensures seniors are protected not just today, but well into the future.How an Elder Law Attorney Can HelpOne of the most valuable services an elder law attorney provides is peace of mind. Heres how they can help seniors and their families:Estate PlanningCreating a sound estate plan isnt just about distributing assetsits about ensuring your wishes are honored. An elder law attorney helps draft essential documents like wills, trusts, and powers of attorney. Theyll ensure your estate is handled efficiently and with minimal taxes or legal complications.Advance Healthcare DirectivesIn the event of serious illness or incapacitation, having an advance directive allows you to specify your healthcare preferences. An elder law attorney can guide you through the legal requirements and help ensure your directives align with your values and state laws.Medicaid and Long-Term Care PlanningLong-term care can be expensive, and many families dont realize that Medicare doesnt cover extended stays in nursing homes. An elder law attorney can help you qualify for Medicaid without spending down your life savings, using legal strategies to preserve your assets while securing care.Guardianship and ConservatorshipIf a senior becomes mentally or physically unable to manage their affairs, a court-appointed guardian or conservator may be necessary. An elder law attorney helps families navigate this legal process and ensure the seniors best interests are protected.Elder Abuse and Financial ProtectionSeniors are often targets of fraud, exploitation, and financial abuse. An elder law attorney can help identify and resolve instances of abuse, recover lost assets, and implement safeguards to prevent future harm.Special Needs and Disability PlanningFor seniors with disabilities or those caring for adult children with special needs, an elder law attorney can help establish special needs trusts and other arrangements to ensure continuous care and financial stability without compromising government benefits.When to Contact an Elder Law AttorneyWhile its never too late to seek legal support, the best time to contact an elder law attorney is before a crisis occurs. Consider consulting with one if:Youre planning for retirement or starting to think about long-term careA loved one has been diagnosed with Alzheimers or another cognitive conditionYou want to revise or create a will, trust, or healthcare directiveYoure overwhelmed by Medicaid or VA benefits applicationsYou suspect a senior is being financially exploitedElder Law and Peace of Mind for FamiliesFor families supporting aging parents or relatives, elder law services offer more than just legal protectionthey provide peace of mind. With an elder law attorneys help, families can navigate difficult decisions confidently, ensure their loved ones rights are protected, and avoid unnecessary legal battles down the road.How Seniors Blue Book Supports YouAt Seniors Blue Book, we understand the importance of planning ahead and connecting with trusted professionals. Our directory makes it easy to find experienced elder law attorneys in your area, along with other senior-focused services like home health care, assisted living, and senior transportation.Our platform is designed to be easy to use and free for both businesses and families. By offering valuable resources and listings, we help senior care providers gain visibilityand help families find the support they need at just the right time.Final ThoughtsAging comes with both joys and challenges, but you dont have to face the legal side of it alone. An elder law attorney can provide the guidance and protection seniors and their families need to plan ahead, secure their rights, and focus on enjoying life.Whether youre thinking about estate planning, exploring care options, or worried about a loved ones legal situation, now is the time to act.At Seniors Blue Book, were here to help connect you with the right professionals. Reach out today at hello@seniorsbluebook.com or call 800-201-9989 for personalized support. Well help you get a full care and legal assessment, complete with practical tips you can implement immediately. Plan smart. Protect your legacy. And let us help you find peace of mind for the years ahead.
Navigating the legal needs of aging can be complexbut its an important part of planning for the future. Whether you're managing a loved one's long-term care, protecting financial assets, or establishing legal guardianship, having an experienced elder lawyer can make all the difference.This guide explores the essentials of Elder Law and how seniors and families on the Western Slope of Colorado can find the right resources and legal support. What Is Elder Law?Elder Law is a specialized area of legal practice that focuses on the unique needs of older adults and their families. An elder lawyer can assist with a wide range of legal matters including:Estate planning and willsPower of attorney and guardianshipMedicaid planning and long-term care arrangementsElder abuse and neglect casesProbate and trust administrationThese services help seniors protect their assets, ensure their wishes are honored, and maintain control over their healthcare and financial decisions. Why Elder Law Matters for Seniors on the Western SlopeThe Western Slope of Colorado is home to a growing population of older adults. With its mix of small towns and rural communities, legal access and education around elder law can sometimes be limited or overlooked. Thats why its crucial for families in this region to understand their options and act early when planning for aging-related legal needs.Common reasons seniors in this area may seek the support of an elder lawyer include:Navigating long-term care or nursing home transitionsDrafting legally sound wills and trustsSetting up advance healthcare directivesAvoiding financial exploitation or fraudPlanning for asset protection under Medicaid rulesLegal planning now can prevent confusion, conflict, and financial hardship later. Choosing the Right Elder Lawyer on the Western SlopeFinding a qualified elder lawyer involves more than just proximity. Here are a few tips to guide your search:Look for specialization: Not all attorneys are experienced in elder law. Seek professionals with a specific focus on elder legal issues.Ask the right questions: Inquire about experience with Medicaid planning, estate law, and healthcare directives.Check local directories: Seniors Blue Book offers a comprehensive, neutral directory of legal professionals in your area.Explore Western Slope Senior Resources Find Elder Law Resources Near You How Elder Law Supports FamiliesElder law isnt just for the individualits a resource for the entire family. Having legal protections and guidance in place can reduce stress during medical emergencies, help adult children advocate confidently for aging parents, and ensure long-term care is properly funded and legally sound.On the Western Slope, where family networks may be spread across rural areas, clear legal planning can be the key to keeping families supported and organized through every stage of aging. Final ThoughtsPlanning for the future isnt always easybut its one of the most empowering things seniors and their families can do. Elder law services provide peace of mind, legal clarity, and protection when it matters most. If you or a loved one are ready to explore legal planning, start by reviewing trusted elder law professionals in the Western Slope area using our curated directory. Seniors Blue Book is here to help you find the right supportwithout pressure or bias.
Comprehensive Special Needs Estate Planning & Special Needs Trusts in PennsylvaniaEstate planning for families with special needs children presents a unique set of financial, legal, and healthcare challenges that require the expertise of a special needs planning attorney. Not all estate planning lawyers understand the intricacies involved, but the experienced special needs estate planning attorneys at Entrusted Legacy Law are dedicated to ensuring your child with special needs is fully protected when you are no longer able to serve as their primary caregiver.We provide a full range of estate planning services tailored to families with special needs children in Pennsylvania. Our goal is to help you preserve assets for your childs future care while ensuring they remain eligible for essential government benefits like Medicaid and Supplemental Security Income (SSI). We assist in setting up special needs trusts (SNTs) to safeguard financial resources, appointing legal guardians and trustees, and identifying long-term care options to ensure your child receives the best possible support and housing solutions.Special Needs Trusts & Asset ProtectionOne of the most significant challenges in special needs financial planning is ensuring that your child has adequate resources without jeopardizing their eligibility for public assistance programs. Many families unknowingly risk disqualifying their child from essential benefits by leaving them a direct financial inheritance. Instead, the best strategy is to establish a special needs trust to provide financial security while preserving their access to Medicaid, SSI, and other government assistance programs.A properly structured special needs trust allows funds to be used for supplemental expensessuch as medical care, therapy, education, and personal carewithout affecting eligibility for disability benefits. However, the regulations governing these trusts are complex. Funds must be managed by a designated trustee and cannot be distributed directly to the beneficiary, as this could trigger disqualification from public benefits. Additionally, a child's needs evolve over time, making it critical to have a trust that can adapt to changing circumstances and legal requirements.By working with an experienced Pennsylvania special needs attorney, you can ensure that your childs special needs trust is legally sound, structured correctly, and customized to their specific requirements.Special Needs Planning for Families in PennsylvaniaAt Entrusted Legacy Law, we specialize in estate planning for children with disabilities, including Down syndrome, autism, cerebral palsy, and other developmental or intellectual disabilities. Our firm helps families create a comprehensive life care plan that provides financial security while safeguarding access to government benefits and essential support services.Whether you need help establishing a special needs trust, securing a legal guardian, or planning for long-term care and housing, our Pennsylvania special needs planning attorneys are here to guide you through every step of the process.Contact Entrusted Legacy Law today to start creating a sustainable, secure future for your child with special needs.
Pennsylvania Probate: What You Need to Know After the Passing of a Loved OneIf you are here to learn about Pennsylvania probate laws after the passing of a loved one, we first want to extend our sincere condolences. We understand that this is a difficult time, and we hope the information on this page provides clarity and helps minimize the legal and administrative challenges you may otherwise face.What Is Probate in Pennsylvania?Probate in Pennsylvania is a court-supervised legal process that ensures the transfer of assets from a deceased individual to their rightful heirs or beneficiaries. This process is essential for: Proving the validity of a will Appointing an executor (if there is a will) or an administrator (if there is no will) Inventorying and appraising estate property Paying outstanding debts, estate taxes, and creditors Distributing assets as directed by the willor by Pennsylvania intestacy laws if no will existsIn Pennsylvania, if a deceased person owned real estate or assets solely in their name, their estate must go through probate before assets can be legally distributed.The Downsides of Pennsylvania Probateand What You Can Do NextMany residents in Allegheny County, Butler County, Beaver County, Washington County, and Westmoreland County have heard that probate is a lengthy, expensive, and public process. Unfortunately, this is truewithout proper estate planning, probate can be costly and time-consuming.The best way to avoid probate in Pennsylvania is to plan ahead using strategies such as revocable living trusts, beneficiary designations, and joint ownership structures. However, if you are already in a position where probate is required, the best thing you can do is educate yourself and seek experienced probate legal assistance to complete the process as efficiently and cost-effectively as possible.How Is a Probate Case Started in Pennsylvania?Probate can be initiated by any beneficiary or creditor, but most often, the process begins when the Executor named in the will files the original will and a petition with the Pennsylvania probate court.If there is no will, a close relative of the deceased (such as a spouse, child, or sibling) typically files the petition to become the Administrator of the Estate.Choosing the Executor for a Pennsylvania EstateIf a valid will exists, the individual named as Executor will handle the probate processif they are eligible and willingIf no Executor is available or no will exists, any interested party (such as a family member) can petition the Pennsylvania Orphans' Court to be appointed as the Administrator of the Estate.Executor Compensation in PennsylvaniaUnder Pennsylvania probate law, Executors and Administrators receive compensation based on a percentage of the total probate estate value. This is designed to fairly compensate them for their time and effort in managing estate matters.However, Executors can be held personally liable for any mistakes made during the process. Given the complexity of Pennsylvania probate rules, its critical to work with a skilled probate attorney to avoid legal pitfalls.Do You Need to Go Through Probate If a Trust Exists?In most cases, no. If the deceaseds assets were properly titled in the name of a trust, probate is not required. Instead, the successor trustee will work with an estate planning lawyer to administer the trust and distribute assets.However, many families are surprised to learn that simply having a trust does not guarantee that probate will be avoided. Common mistakes include: The trust was not updated over time to reflect new assets. The decedents assets were never properly transferred into the trust.To ensure your estate plan works as intended, its important to work with an estate planning attorney who provides ongoing trust maintenance and reviews.Which Assets Are Subject to Probate in Pennsylvania?Assets that must go through probate include: Real estate, bank accounts, or investments owned solely in the deceaseds name Personal property and valuable assets without a beneficiary designationAssets that bypass probate include: Jointly owned property with Right of Survivorship Bank accounts or investment accounts with Transfer on Death (TOD) or Payable on Death (POD) designations Life insurance policies and retirement accounts with named beneficiariesHowever, some assets that normally bypass probate can still become subject to the process under certain circumstances. Consult with a Pennsylvania probate attorney to determine if probate applies to your specific situation.How Pennsylvania Intestacy Laws Distribute an Estate When There Is No WillIf no valid will exists, Pennsylvania intestacy laws dictate how the estate will be distributed:1 Spouse (If married, a portion or all of the estate goes to the spouse)2 Children (If the deceased had children, they inherit next)3 Parents (If there are no children, parents inherit)4 Siblings (If no spouse, children, or parents, siblings inherit)This highlights the importance of estate planningwithout a will or trust, the state determines who receives your assets.How Long Does Pennsylvania Probate Take?The timeline for Pennsylvania probate varies depending on the estates complexity. On average: Minimum of 12 months for simple cases Up to 2+ years for complex estates, disputes, or tax-related mattersWhat Are the Costs of Probate in Pennsylvania?Probate costs in Pennsylvania include: Attorneys fees (Based on estate size and complexity) Court filing fees Executor fees (set by Pennsylvania law) Appraisal and valuation fees Publication and administrative costsIn more complex estates, additional fees may apply, increasing probate expenses and delays.How to Choose the Right Pennsylvania Probate AttorneySelecting the right probate lawyer in Pennsylvania is crucial. Many general practice lawyers dabble in probate law, but only experienced probate attorneys have the knowledge to navigate complex estate matters efficiently. You do NOT have to use the attorney who prepared the will. You have the right to choose a specialized probate lawyer who understands the nuances of Pennsylvania estate law and can expedite the process. Avoid costly mistakes. Working with an experienced probate attorney prevents errors that could increase costs, cause delays, or result in legal disputes.Contact Entrusted Legacy Law for a Complimentary Pennsylvania Probate ConsultationIf youre ready to begin the probate process in Pennsylvania, our Allegheny County and Butler County probate attorneys are here to guide you.Call us at 412-347-1731 to schedule a complimentary 15-minute consultation to determine your next best steps.During your consultation, we will: Answer your probate-related questions Provide guidance on estate administration Help you navigate the Pennsylvania probate process efficientlyWe are here to relieve the legal and administrative burden during this difficult time and ensure that your loved ones estate is handled with care.
Our Firm Prepares You for Life What makes our firm different is that we were built with the needs of growing families in mind. We understand you are BUSY, you are growing, you are planning for a life of prosperity and you value ease, convenience and efficiency. You are raising children, and caring for elderly parents, while also working hard to build your own nest egg for a lifetime of support. You want to know youve made the best decisions for your family and that your plan will work when your loved ones need it most. You want to make sure your minor children would be raised by the people you choose, and never by anyone you wouldnt want, and that your teens and adult children are properly prepared to care for you and what you leave behind. You want to feel confident that youve made the right choices, and handled everything so that you arent leaving behind a mess, when something happens. That is our focus as well. Weve developed unique systems to give you the same access to a Personal Family Lawyer as was previously only available to the super-wealthy, so you can have the guidance you need to build and maintain a life of prosperity and wealth. And, to keep your family out of court and out of conflict, which is the greatest risk to the people you love and all you have created, even if youve already worked with a traditional lawyer or created documents online. Our Team Is Here for You We encourage communication with our clients. In fact, weve thrown out the time clocks so you never have to be afraid to call with a quick question. Everything we do is billed on a flat-fee basis, agreed to in advance, so there are never any surprises. We have a whole team to serve you. When you call our office to ask your quick question, you wont have to wait hours or days for a phone call back. Youll get your question answered, right away. And, if you need to schedule a more in-depth legal or strategic call with your Personal Family Lawyer, a call will be scheduled when you're both available and ready for the call so we can make the very best use of your time and not waste your time by leaving voicemail after voicemail back and forth. And, we ensure the most important details of your planning are followed through on and your plan continues to work throughout your lifetime. We have a funding coordinator to ensure your assets are owned the right way throughout your lifetime and none of your assets will end up going through a long, expensive court process or being lost to the state because they were missed after your death. Weve created unique membership programs to keep your plan up to date year in and year out as well as give you access to our Trusted Team of Legal Experts for guidance on ANY legal or financial matter. One day you will need a lawyer. I dont know why and I dont know when, but when you do, you will be grateful you can call on us and well be here to advise you or get you out of a jam. We Help You Transfer Your Life and Legacy Lastly, we believe your financial wealth is only a small part of your overall Life and Legacy Planning which is made up of your far more valuable and most often lost upon incapacity or death intellectual, spiritual and human assets. These assets are what make you who you are, and sum up whats most important to you. And, a survey of inheritors has revealed that what they care about even more than inheriting your money, is inheriting these intangible assets. Most estate plans only focus on the transfer of your financial wealth to the next generation. Most people have such great intentions of passing on the intangible, but very few ever get around to it. Its just not a priority, until its too late. How much do you know about your grandparents values? Their most prized personal possessions? How they felt about you? What they had learned during their lifetime? If you are like most people, you know very little. Thats why we build the capture and passage of these most valuable assets into every estate plan we create. Not only will we help you pass on your money, but also your values, your insights, your stories and your experience the truly valuable assets your loved ones care about the most. Weve developed a tool that allows us to capture and pass on your whole family wealth, including your Intellectual, Spiritual and Human assets. I cant go into all of the details here, but well definitely talk about it when you come in for your Life and Legacy Planning Session.