Advice From Your Advocates

 Welcome to our enlightening conversation with Wendy Strayer, client services coordinator at Mannor Law Group. Wendy's expertise in estate planning helps us unravel the often misunderstood world of trusts and the peace of mind they can offer. She emphasizes that estate planning isn't reserved for the ultra-wealthy—it's a must for everyone, regardless of financial stature. 

Wendy keenly explains how establishing a trust is like creating your personal rulebook. A trust not only provides flexibility in asset transfers but also empowers you to anticipate and prepare for life's inevitable changes. She also highlights the significance of a power of attorney —a crucial element that can make a world of difference during emergencies. As we debunk the myth that estate planning is a luxury only for the rich, we find it's a necessity that offers valuable security and control. 

But setting up an estate plan isn't enough; understanding it is equally critical. As Wendy guides us through the process at Mannor Law Group, we discuss the various legal options to suit individual circumstances. She stresses the importance of education in estate planning—apprehending the benefits and potential impacts of your decisions is key to ensuring your loved ones' future protection.  Join us on this informative journey to ensure your future is secure and your legacy lives on your terms.

Host: Attorney Bob Mannor
Executive Producer: Savannah Meksto

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ABOUT US:
Mannor Law Group helps clients in all matters of estate planning and elder law including special needs planning, veterans’ benefits, Medicaid planning, estate administration, and more. We offer guidance through all stages of life.

We also help families dealing with dementia, Alzheimer’s disease, Parkinson’s disease, and other illnesses that cause memory loss. We take a comprehensive, holistic approach, called Life Care Planning. LEARN MORE...

According to the U.S. Census Bureau, approximately 21% of recent marriages involve both spouses marrying for at least the second time. This means that about 1 out of every 5 marriages in the United States is a second marriage.

Estate planning for second marriages and blended families may look different than their single marriage counterparts. Join us as we dive deep into estate planning specifics unique to these family dynamics.

Estate Planning & Elder Law Attorney Bob Mannor sheds light on why it's crucial to have a detailed plan, not only in case a spouse has passed, but in case of illness and other hardships. We also highlight the perils of adding your children's names to your assets, using a real-life example of a family whose expectations and reality didn't match up due to an ill-conceived estate plan.

Moving onto asset distribution, we tackle the nuances of revocable living trusts and their importance in ensuring your spouse and children are well taken care of. We explore how these trusts can help you prepare for various future scenarios, possibly involving remarriage or undue influence. But our discussion doesn't stop there!

We also delve into the importance of planning for unexpected circumstances and how a trust can protect against the surviving spouse potentially depleting all assets. Learn how to maximize government benefits to cover care and set up a foolproof estate plan that provides the best chances of accessing these benefits. Join us for this insightful conversation!

Host Attorney Bob Mannor
Executive Producer Savannah Mektso

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ABOUT US:
Mannor Law Group helps clients in all matters of estate planning and elder law including special needs planning, veterans’ benefits, Medicaid planning, estate administration, and more. We offer guidance through all stages of life.

We also help families dealing with dementia, Alzheimer’s disease, Parkinson’s disease, and other illnesses that cause memory loss. We take a comprehensive, holistic approach, called Life Care Planning. LEARN MORE...

Do Not Resuscitate orders or DNRs:  chances are you've heard of this document, but many are unsure exactly what it means.  If you've wondered about DNRs, their implications, and the myths surrounding them, this episode will enlighten you.

We welcome back guest, Nikki Inches, a resident care navigator and social worker at Mannor Law Group, who shares her expansive knowledge on DNRs, helping us differentiate them from healthcare power of attorney or patient advocate designations. Host Bob Mannor and Nikki delve into this realm, exploring what a DNR actually entails and the conditions under which it comes into play. 

Nikki & Bob demystify the actual stipulations of a DNR - it's an order, signed by oneself, witnesses, and a physician, that one does not want chest compressions started if their heart stops beating. But who gets to make this crucial decision and when should this topic be discussed? We venture into these critical aspects, highlighting the importance of having this dialogue, especially in light of dealing with dementia patients. Tune in to our insightful conversation as we take a realistic look at end-of-life decisions and their importance, regardless of age.

Executive Producer: Savannah Meksto
Assistant Producer: Andria Conner

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ABOUT US:
Mannor Law Group helps clients in all matters of estate planning and elder law including special needs planning, veterans’ benefits, Medicaid planning, estate administration, and more. We offer guidance through all stages of life.

We also help families dealing with dementia, Alzheimer’s disease, Parkinson’s disease, and other illnesses that cause memory loss. We take a comprehensive, holistic approach, called Life Care Planning. LEARN MORE...

Did you know that hospice care has evolved from being a last-days-of-life service to being a holistic approach that can occur in the patient's own home? Gain a wealth of knowledge in this enlightening chat with our special guest, Nikki Inches, LLMSW, and host Attorney Bob Mannor.  Nikki is not only a seasoned elder care navigator but also a dedicated social worker at Mannor Law Group. 

In this episode, Nikki unravels common misconceptions about hospice care, enlightening on how it's no longer just for the final days, but a supportive measure for those with a terminal diagnosis predicted to be within six months.

We don't just stop at explaining what hospice care is, but we take you on a journey of discovery about diverse aspects of this essential service. From exploring the range of medical equipment, medications, and supplies covered, to identifying intriguing differences between for-profit and non-profit hospices. Additionally, we discuss the various benefits and considerations when choosing hospice care including key questions to ask when evaluating what a particular hospice covers. You'll also hear about the additional benefits available for UAW hourly employees with a level five hospice and how it could potentially help bypass the hoops of Medicaid for seven months. Let's navigate this journey of understanding together and ensure the best possible care for our loved ones. Don’t skip this essential conversation!

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ABOUT US:
Mannor Law Group helps clients in all matters of estate planning and elder law including special needs planning, veterans’ benefits, Medicaid planning, estate administration, and more. We offer guidance through all stages of life.

We also help families dealing with dementia, Alzheimer’s disease, Parkinson’s disease, and other illnesses that cause memory loss. We take a comprehensive, holistic approach, called Life Care Planning. LEARN MORE...

Want to understand the intricacies of the Aid and Attendance benefit program? Our host Attorney Bob Mannor,  walks us through the ins and outs of this potentially life-altering benefit for elder veterans. Nested under VA's improved pension program, this benefit could be the answer to your worries about independent living, assisted living and nursing home expenses, or even in-home care. Bob, an accredited expert by the Veterans Administration and a nationally board certified elder law attorney, also elaborates on the special criteria that could unlock these benefits.

Now, here's a teaser - did you know that changes in asset rules and gifting can significantly impact your Aid and Attendance benefit? Bob explains these changes, giving you an in-depth understanding of grandfathering assets gifted before October 18th, 2018, the exemption rules for a house and two acres, and the new modifications to the income annuity rule. He also offers valuable insights on the types of assets allowed, how to stay qualified, and the potential consequences of transferring assets. Don't miss out on this opportunity to arm yourself with knowledge on maximizing veterans' benefits.

Host: Attorney Bob Mannor
Producer: Savannah Meksto

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ABOUT US:
Mannor Law Group helps clients in all matters of estate planning and elder law including special needs planning, veterans’ benefits, Medicaid planning, estate administration, and more. We offer guidance through all stages of life.

We also help families dealing with dementia, Alzheimer’s disease, Parkinson’s disease, and other illnesses that cause memory loss. We take a comprehensive, holistic approach, called Life Care Planning. LEARN MORE...

Have you ever been caught in the labyrinth of  long-term care for a family member - or as an elder care professional? This episode offers a beacon of hope with our guest, the accomplished attorney, Michael Lebenbom. He gives us a glimpse into his personal journey into law and his unwavering drive to advocate for individuals trapped within the complex machinery of the long-term care system. From his father's legacy to his remarkable work in the Healthcare Association of Michigan, Michael's experiences shed light on the human face of probate court and the critical role of an attorney in crafting calm amidst the storm of anxious family members and legal proceedings.

We further delve into the intricacies of elder law, discussing the protection of Medicaid funds and the imperative of patient advocate designations. Michael's unique insights underline the importance of safeguarding the welfare of those in need while ensuring due compensation for care facilities. We also tackle the gritty realities faced by certified nurse aides and the impact of financial constraints on all members of skilled nursing teams. Brace yourselves as we navigate these intricate waters of elder law and the indispensable role of patient advocacy.

Lastly, we examine the potential pitfalls of legal documents like a durable power of attorney for finances and a patient advocate designation. Michael warns against the dangers lurking in form documents that could inadvertently restrict qualifying for Medicaid. He underscores the risks of misuse and the chaos that could ensue. Tune in to this riveting episode and journey with us through the labyrinth of elder law, packed with invaluable insights, personal anecdotes, and a renewed faith in humanity. Don't miss out on an opportunity to demystify the world of elder law and fortify your understanding of the long-term care system.

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ABOUT US:
Mannor Law Group helps clients in all matters of estate planning and elder law including special needs planning, veterans’ benefits, Medicaid planning, estate administration, and more. We offer guidance through all stages of life.

We also help families dealing with dementia, Alzheimer’s disease, Parkinson’s disease, and other illnesses that cause memory loss. We take a comprehensive, holistic approach, called Life Care Planning. LEARN MORE...

What if you could unmask the complexities of VA compensation benefits tied to Agent Orange-related illnesses? Attorney Bob Mannor, a leader on aging veterans' affairs, illuminates the recent changes in VA compensation benefits, particularly focusing on the concept of presumptive illnesses. These diseases, as he explains, are automatically assumed to be linked to Agent Orange exposure in certain regions, freeing veterans from the burden of proof. With a deep dive into various geographical areas including Vietnam and the Korean DMZ, Bob provides a comprehensive understanding of where exposure is presumed and also outlines the spectrum of illnesses tied to Agent Orange exposure.

Don't let the possibilities of benefits connected to Agent Orange exposure pass you by if you're a Vietnam era veteran.

In the second half of the podcast, Bob underscores the various forms of compensation available and how attorneys can be pivotal in beefing up the compensation percentage and dollar amount for veterans. Even more captivating is how a higher disability percentage can pave the way for veterans to qualify for health services and long-term care services. It's about time we shift our focus toward veterans' benefits and ensure that our veterans from the Vietnam era aren't left in the lurch. So join us on this enlightening journey, learn, understand, and make a difference.

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ABOUT US:
Mannor Law Group helps clients in all matters of estate planning and elder law including special needs planning, veterans’ benefits, Medicaid planning, estate administration, and more. We offer guidance through all stages of life.

We also help families dealing with dementia, Alzheimer’s disease, Parkinson’s disease, and other illnesses that cause memory loss. We take a comprehensive, holistic approach, called Life Care Planning. LEARN MORE...

When was the last time you acted kindly towards someone, despite feeling like a complete jerk? In our heartfelt conversation with Reverend Joe Krupp, we explore the power of kindness, generosity, and patience in our interactions, especially when dealing with families and caregivers of those diagnosed with dementia or Alzheimer's. Father Joe shares his personal experiences and offers three key rules to live by: act how you wish you felt, remember that joy is a conviction rather than a feeling, and be generous with the invisible aspects of life.

We also dive into the importance of acknowledging and accepting our own limitations, as well as those of others. By doing so, we can better value the skills and expertise of those around us and more effectively meet the needs of the people we care for. Drawing from stories like CS Lewis' divine moments in the daily grind and the example of Father Paul, a selfless and thoughtful priest, we learn how to work together as a team and find joy, growth, and connection, even in the most challenging situations. Tune in for support and inspiration in your journey caring for loved ones with dementia or Alzheimer's.

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ABOUT US:
Mannor Law Group helps clients in all matters of estate planning and elder law including special needs planning, veterans’ benefits, Medicaid planning, estate administration, and more. We offer guidance through all stages of life.

We also help families dealing with dementia, Alzheimer’s disease, Parkinson’s disease, and other illnesses that cause memory loss. We take a comprehensive, holistic approach, called Life Care Planning. LEARN MORE...

We had the privilege of sitting down with the inspiring Reverend Joe Krupp, whose magnetic personality and uplifting attitude have touched countless lives. As the chaplain for the Michigan State football team, he has provided comfort and joy to many families during the pandemic. Listen in as we discuss his incredible journey, including the heartwarming story of how he brought happiness to a family on a wife's birthday, despite her dementia.

Reverend Krupp also shares his personal experience of caring for his mother, who had Alzheimer's. Her remarkable life of service, intelligence, and drive led her to take in 38 children in need of a home. As her dementia progressed rapidly, Joe and his family had to come together to honor her last wishes. We touch on the challenges of long-distance caregiving and the importance of family support during such difficult times.

In this thought-provoking episode, Reverend Joe Krupp offers invaluable insights on what it means to be a good human, emphasizing the need to discipline and educate our emotions. He challenges us to acknowledge our emotions without judgment and to ask ourselves whether they are helping or hurting us. Additionally, we discuss Joe's advice on counseling with compassion and joy, and the profound impact of living a life dedicated to serving others. Don't miss this heartwarming episode that will leave you feeling inspired and motivated to make a difference in the lives of those around you!

Stay tuned for Part 2 of this episode to come out next week! 

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ABOUT US:
Mannor Law Group helps clients in all matters of estate planning and elder law including special needs planning, veterans’ benefits, Medicaid planning, estate administration, and more. We offer guidance through all stages of life.

We also help families dealing with dementia, Alzheimer’s disease, Parkinson’s disease, and other illnesses that cause memory loss. We take a comprehensive, holistic approach, called Life Care Planning. LEARN MORE...

What if we told you there's a therapy that helps elderly patients regain their self-care, strength, balance, and coordination for daily activities? Welcome Danielle Hopkins, an occupational therapist at both McLaren Hospital and Wellbridge of Grand Blanc, who joins us to shed light on the crucial differences between occupational therapy and physical therapy, as well as her experiences working with stroke patients and using adaptive techniques.

Discover what it's like to work as an occupational therapist in various settings, such as hospitals and skilled care centers, and the challenges faced when treating patients with cognitive issues or dementia. Learn how music and art therapies can aid memory care, and the realities of inpatient therapy duration in skilled care centers, often cut short by insurance companies. Danielle also shares how therapy can continue beyond inpatient care through home care and outpatient therapy, providing comprehensive care for patients throughout their journey.

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ABOUT US:
Mannor Law Group helps clients in all matters of estate planning and elder law including special needs planning, veterans’ benefits, Medicaid planning, estate administration, and more. We offer guidance through all stages of life.

We also help families dealing with dementia, Alzheimer’s disease, Parkinson’s disease, and other illnesses that cause memory loss. We take a comprehensive, holistic approach, called Life Care Planning. LEARN MORE...