The past decade has witnessed the prominence of specializedlegal issues known as elder law. Elder law consists of thetraditional legal areas such as estate planning, living wills,long-term care planning, and public benefits such as Medicaid andSocial Security. Many attorneys now identify as elder lawspecialists and have a network of professionals such as geriatriccare managers or social workers who offer services to the elderly.Making plans about health care and financial decisions prepares anelderly person for the possibility of being incapacitated bycontrolling what happens in their life.Estate PlanningEstate planning is very important for the elderly, regardless tothe size of an estate. Without a plan, there is no guarantee thatloved ones will receive the full benefit of property. Exces