Attorney Launches Care, Advocacy Program for Senior Citizens

Maryland Elder Law Attorney Launches Care, Advocacy Program for Senior Citizens

By Ed Waters, Jr., The Frederick News-Post, Md.

Jul. 26--The "graying of America" is in full force, according to David Wingate, an elder law attorney.

A Baby Boomer turns 60 every 7 seconds, and people are living longer than ever before. By the time adults reach the age of 85, one out of every two requires nursing home care.

According to the U.S. Census Bureau, in 2030 some states will have more people 65 and older than younger than 18. As the Baby Boomers slowly become senior citizens, by 2011, the population of 65 and older will grow faster than the total population in each state. To deal with this evolving social trend, Wingate has developed a care and advocacy program called Senior Life Care Planning LLC.

The first of its kind in Maryland, it is a comprehensive program of staff and resources designed to assist individuals every stop of the way as they place an aging loved one in a nursing home or make other care arrangements.

Senior Life Care Planning LLC has staff to consult on long-term care options based on a loved one's medical needs, and help evaluate nursing homes and monitor the care nursing home residents receive.

"We are committed to educating seniors and their families about how to make their golden years as enjoyable and comfortable as possible," Wingate said. "We are keenly aware that the news today is full of reports of elder abuse and care conditions that are less than adequate. We work to empower families so that they can take steps to make sure their loved ones are properly cared for."