Senior adults are the fastest-growing population segment in Mississippi. Advancements in medical science combined with healthy lifestyle habits now enable us to live longer than any generation before. However, with that greater longevity also comes unique challenges. As professionals servicing this rapidly growing part of society, it is imperative that we stay up-to-date on the legal challenges, and solutions available to this unique segment of our population. The 2024 Elder Law Summit is designed to not only train you to recognize those challenges but to also empower you to offer solutions.

The Mississippi Legislature’s recent passage of the Guard and Protect (GAP) Act have changed the process and requirements for acquiring guardianships and conservatorships in the state, and dramatically changed the ongoing obligations for fiduciaries and attorneys. Likewise, the Mississippi Vulnerable Adults Act continues to require mandatory reporting of elder abuse. Everyone serving this vulnerable population should be aware of their obligations and understand the process designed to protect our seniors from exploitation.

Asset protection has always been a big concern of seniors, and is now of even greater importance due to increased longevity. Without planning, many will simply outlive their money. Lengthy Medicaid look-back periods require seniors to act further in advance of their incapacity if they wish to protect assets for their families, but imprudent transfers can place those assets at unnecessary risk and result in adverse tax consequences.

Likewise, seniors that fail to plan far enough in advance risk losing everything because their advisors do not understand the asset protection tools that are available. Veterans benefits are another underutilized tool that can give security and peace of mind to wartime veterans and their widowed spouses, if they are only made aware of those benefits. However, as with most public benefits, preparation should be done in advance of actual need to maximize benefits.

Mississippi recently outsourced its Medicaid estate recovery to a thirdparty vendor. A representative from the Mississippi Attorney General’s office will be on hand to explain this process and address how it differs from past practices. Experts will also be on hand to explain Mississippi Choice Waiver opportunities as well as ethical issues that arise in representing the aged.

As a trusted advisor to seniors, your clients seek advice from you on how to best plan their affairs for their and their families’ future. The Elder Law Summit will prepare you to advise them on their best planning options while enabling you to meet many of your continuing education requirements for the year. Also, I am very excited that we are able to present this Summit live and in person. However, for your protection and that of other attendees, certain Covid safety protocols will be in place, including seat spacing. Accordingly, space is limited at this event, so please do not delay your registration if you want to attend. I look forward to seeing you there.