When an elderly parent suddenly needs care or can no longer manage on their own, it can feel like everything changes overnight. A fall, a diagnosis, or a sudden hospital discharge can leave families scrambling. You may not know what to do first or how to protect your loved one’s well-being and finances. At Horizon Elder Law & Estate Planning, Inc., we understand how overwhelming this time can be. We’re here to help you make sound decisions quickly and compassionately.
What Crisis Planning Means
Crisis planning refers to the legal and practical steps we take when a person’s care needs change quickly. Often, families call us when a parent is no longer safe at home or is about to be placed in a skilled nursing facility. In many of these cases, there hasn’t been any prior planning, or the original plan is no longer enough. We can help assess the situation and help create a path forward that protects your parent and supports your family.
Signs It’s Time to Act
Many families delay asking for help because the warning signs aren’t always obvious. Aging parents often try to cover up problems, even when they’re struggling. If you’ve noticed any of the following, it may be time to speak with an elder law attorney:
- A parent unable to provide their own food, clothing, or shelter
- A noticeable decline in their physical or mental health
- Trouble managing bills, unopened mail, or household upkeep
- Empty fridges, expired medications, or unexplained injuries
You know your parent best. If something feels off, it’s worth a call. Early action can prevent a bad situation from getting worse.
Why Families Turn to Us
When you reach out during a crisis, you’re not just getting legal documents—you’re getting a team that understands both the legal and medical challenges you’re facing. Attorney Julie Fiedler is not only an elder law attorney—she’s also a registered nurse with more than 20 years of experience working with older adults.
We bring a practical, informed, and compassionate approach to every family we serve. We’ll help you:
- Understand your parent’s care needs and your legal options
- Put powers of attorney or health care directives in place
- Secure or preserve Medi-Cal eligibility
- Explore VA, Medicare, and other available benefits
- Plan for long-term care—at home, in assisted living or in a skilled nursing facility
- Set up a conservatorship if your parent can no longer make decisions
We’ll also discuss your concerns—financial, emotional, and practical—and guide you toward solutions that work for your family.
Protecting What Matters Most
Even in the middle of a crisis, there are often ways to protect what matters most—like the family home or a lifetime of savings. While early planning gives families more flexibility, it’s not the only path forward. We’ve helped many clients take action during urgent situations, using legal tools and benefit programs to reduce unnecessary spend-downs and preserve assets. The right strategy depends on your family’s unique circumstances, including your parent’s health, financial picture, and care needs. Our team will walk you through your options, explain what’s possible, and help you make informed choices. The goal is to protect your parent’s legacy while ensuring they get the care they need.
Time Matters—But So Does Compassion
Crisis planning is time-sensitive. Long-term care costs add up fast, and delays can limit your options. That said, you don’t have to make decisions overnight. Our job is to move quickly but thoughtfully—so you can focus on your loved one, not the paperwork.
Contact Our Experienced Contra Costa County Crisis Management Attorney
If you’re caring for an elderly parent in California and think they may be in crisis, call Horizon Elder Law & Estate Planning, Inc. today. We’ll help you assess the situation and take the next steps—whether that means planning care, protecting assets, or just answering your questions with clarity and compassion.
We’re more than just an elder law firm. We’re a team committed to helping families through difficult transitions with dignity, respect, and peace of mind.