Legal

A home is most peoples’ single biggest asset, and it holds so much meaning and memories. If a single person enters a nursing home with a house but no money, many people don’t know that the new regulations say that the house is a countable asset, and the person won’t qualify for assistance. ...

Our  September/October issue — our Fifth Anniversary edition and our biggest ever — is now available for online reading and will be on newsstands this week (Marc's, Giant Eagle, Discount Drug Mart, Dave's Markets and 600+ other locations). Don't miss it! Inside, we'll introduce you to our interesting and inspiring Boomer Impact Award winners who've shown us how to age successfully and robustly in Northeast Ohio. And that's just the beginning. Enjoy our Fifth Anniversary edition and thank you for giving us so much to celebrate as we embrace Better Living After 50. ...

All parents caring for disabled children are advised to write down what any successor caregiver would need to know about the child and what the parent’s wishes are for his or her care. This is important whether the child be in a group home, live with a parent, or be on his or her own. The parent knows best, but needs to pass on important information about medical issues, medication, diet, a “day in the life,” housing, outside activities, faith, personal values, finances, expenses, and more. A copy of the memo or letter can be kept in the attorney’s files with the parents’ estate plan. ...

In our weekly Pandemic Positivity posts, we're spotlighting local organizations that are helping us manage life during the COVID-19 crisis. One of the best resources is the Benjamin Rose Institute on Aging. Their latest newsletter has advice for those having a tough time making mortgage or rent payments. ...

Is having an out-of-date will better than having no will at all? Not really. Where there's a will there's not always a way to ensure your money and possessions will go to those you had hoped would benefit. ...

A prenuptial agreement can be used in a second marriage when both parties have children. For example, suppose you get remarried and both you and your spouse have children from a prior marriage. You want your house to pass to your children, but without proper planning and an agreement in place, your spouse could inherit the house and then pass the house to her children when she dies. ...

You may be surprised to learn that you can access over a dozen Social Security functions, even when you're traveling far from home. The online services page provides you with a wide variety of self-service options you can use on your phone, tablet or computer. ...