Elder Law FAQs for California Families

Medicare is health insurance and generally doesn’t pay for extended custodial care—just limited rehab after a hospital stay. Medi-Cal can cover nursing-home costs if you meet medical and financial rules, which is why early Medi-Cal planning matters.

During life, a primary residence is often exempt for eligibility if you intend to return or a spouse/disabled child lives there. After death, the state may seek recovery from probate estates. Keeping assets out of probate and aligning titles and trusts can reduce recovery exposure; personalized advice is essential.

As soon as possible—ideally before care is needed. California’s look-back rules penalize certain transfers made too close to application. Even in a crisis, targeted steps can help preserve value for the healthy spouse.

Gifts within look-back periods (30 months for Medi-Cal long-term care; 36 months for certain VA pensions) may trigger penalties. Use lawful strategies—trusts, spend-downs tied to real care costs—rather than risky last-minute transfers.

Yes. The VA’s Aid & Attendance can add a monthly pension to help pay for in-home care or assisted living if you qualify by service, need, income, and assets. We also coordinate with Medi-Cal if nursing care becomes necessary later.

If there’s no valid power of attorney or trust and decisions must be made, families may need the conservatorship process. We handle petitions, hearings, and ongoing compliance so you can focus on care.

It’s an ongoing relationship combining legal planning with care coordination—estate documents, benefit applications, and guidance as needs change. It’s especially helpful for families juggling work, kids, and an aging parent in the West Valley.