Senior Matters Podcast

The holidays are a perfect time to check-in with family. Visiting senior family members, in particular, will give you a good idea of their health and welfare. This episode recaps red flags to pay attention to during your family get-togethers and tips for handling difficult situations.

You've got questions, we've got answers! Idaho Estate Planning has been a leader in Idaho in teaching others about the options available in estate planning and how best to preserve assets, protect loved ones, and promote personal choice. On this episode, Attorney Mark Wight shines some light on topics he frequently comes across in estate planning, to help you start thinking of the best options to serve you and your family's needs.

On today's episode, we address the potential issues that occur with aging and the eventuality we all face- death. Approaching these difficult topics early on empowers you to take control of your future. If you're ready to get real about your estate planning, this episode is for you!

The VA pension program, better known as the Aid & Attendance Benefit, has undergone some changes. The Department of Veterans Affairs (VA) recently released amendments to this needs-based benefit, that will impact the financial and medical aspects of eligibility. On this episode, Attorney Mark Wight breaks down what some of these changes mean for veterans and their surviving spouses.

Although completing a difficult task on your own can bring about great feelings of accomplishment, there are some endeavors that can do more harm in the long-run when going at it alone. With a number of cost-saving resources available to create your own estate plan, it is tempting to forgo hiring a professional. Before you decide to cut-out the estate planning "middlemen," consider for a minute how hiring counsel from a dedicated estate planning attorney will provide you with options to accomplish your goals, have your documents prepared legally, and ensure appropriate assets are funded into your plan. If you're still on the fence about the best estate plan option, this episode is for you.

Making arrangements for your eventual passing is only part of a good estate plan. If you experience cognitive or physical challenges as you age, your finances and health care can negatively be impacted. On this episode, Attorney Mark Wight discusses issues surrounding life and disability and ways to stay ahead of the curve by making decisions to protect yourself ahead of time.

Being diagnosed with dementia is nothing short of devastating. Studies now show that people with untreated hearing loss are more prone to developing this disease. Jacquie Elcox joins us from Treasure Valley Hearing and Balance with Lindsay Meloy, from the Alzheimer's Association Greater Idaho Chapter, to discuss ways to protect your quality of life through early detection.

Justin Walker of Adalánt financial services returns this week to discuss ways you can be intentional with your estate planning when moving into retirement. Because retirement looks different for everyone, the sooner you begin planning, the easier it will be to cover all your bases and retire with dignity.

Retirement is a big financial decision and every state has different benefits and guidelines for retirees. On this episode, Justin Walker of Adalánt financial services shares why it's important to review your retirement plan before you make the big move to Idaho.

Having candid conversations with your family about your estate plan today can prevent a trainwreck of issues in the future. On this episode, Attorney Mark Wight shares how knowing and clarifying your desires will make it easier for your chosen advocates to honor your wishes.