The elder law practice sweeps together disparate and distinct areas of law practice to focus on the unique needs of the elderly or aging. It covers a vast array of legal concerns.
For example, the needs of the elderly range from the related law practice areas of wills and probate, to unique healthcare provisions—in the public and private settings—as well as special legal regulations in social security, disabilities, as well as the emerging area of age discrimination in employment settings. Rounding out the area is the regulation of senior housing, like nursing homes and hospice, as well as in-home healthcare services for the elderly. Then there is the separate but emerging area of elder abuse. Guardianship law also plays an important role in elder law. The list is very long.
It is always a good idea to consult with an attorney when the health, welfare, and finances of an elderly person are at stake. An attorney can, among other things, explain the implications of legal issues for all the issues described above, as well as many others. The stakes are very high.