Early Dementia, Alzheimer’s. My Mom’s health deteriorated to the point she required full-time care. She wanted to live at home, but required regular help with the essentials of daily living (i.e. dressing, bathing, etc.). As her caregiver daughter, the responsibilities fell on me to figure out what to do. Thank goodness for Fredrick Niemann and Mr. Niemann.

He met with me and explained all of my options for my mom, from at home/community care, assisted living, state, county and local programs for the elderly, financial eligibility for benefits, Medicaid qualification, pharmaceutical assistance, utility aid, Medicare and Veteran’s benefits, etc. While I felt overwhelmed by it all, Mr. Niemann clearly was in control of what could be done for Mom. We engaged him to make applications for subsidized at-home care and assistance through available grant programs and as part of his services to us, he is counseling us on a reverse mortgage, income and financial products to enhance Mom’s monthly income and to reduce her expenses. Mom would tell me to let Mr. Niemann make all the decisions although I am her Power of Attorney. I value so much his confident and generally caring manner. If you’re trying to help your Mom, Dad or family member deal with a life changing health condition, call Fredrick Niemann. I’m glad I did and so is Mom.

—Mary Layton, Farmingdale, NJ

VA pensions are not just for wartime veterans who were wounded or disabled while they were serving in the armed forces. Millions of veterans and their spouses may be eligible for special monthly pension benefits solely because they are over 65 years of age and are homebound, in assisted/supportive living or in a nursing home. Those veterans and/or their survivors only need to prove that their medical expenses exceed certain income and asset limitations. The maximum benefit available can provide significant help in paying for long term care costs. 

An experienced elder law attorney can assist you and your family by explaining what may seem like many difficult-to-understand things about long-term care. Qualification for a veteran benefit is only one of several concerns that must be considered. You may need guidance and/or have questions about the following: 

Care options available in the local community for both the veteran and the spouse

A review of VA, Medicare and Medicaid as they apply to your circumstances

A calculation of the actual dollar benefit and/or cost of any helpful idea that is discussed

Analysis of any income tax, estate tax or gift tax issues

Estate plan documents such as powers of attorney, wills and possibly trusts

A review of your personal, financial and family resources

Analysis of financial suitability of any asset (preservation)

Analysis of both positives and negatives of all planning options Possible submission of the VA claim form

Contact me personally today to discuss your veteran's benefit matter.  I am easy to talk to, very approachable and can offer you practical, legal ways to handle your concerns.  You can reach me toll-free at (855) 376-5291 or email me at fniemann@hnlawfirm.com.  You can also learn more about Veterans Aid & Attendance Pension Benefits at www.njveteranpensionbenefits.com.

Fredrick P. Niemann, Esq.
NJ Veterans Benefit Attorney