Attorney
When the COVID-19 pandemic began, most of us were focused on staying safe, finding supplies, and adjusting to a new normal. But as the months wore on, something else became clear—many families in Contra Costa started asking important questions about what would happen if they got sick or couldn’t make decisions for themselves. The uncertainty prompted people to think more seriously about planning ahead, not just for their financial future, but for their healthcare and family needs too.
Health Scares Sparked New Conversations
The sudden nature of the virus made it hard to ignore how quickly things could change. People of all ages found themselves wondering: Who would speak for me if I were hospitalized and couldn’t communicate? What if I ended up in intensive care and my loved ones didn’t have access to my medical records?
These questions led to a noticeable rise in requests for:
- Advance Health Care Directives – so loved ones could follow your medical wishes
- HIPAA waivers – allowing trusted people to access your health information
- Health Care Proxies – to name someone you trust to make medical decisions on your behalf if you can’t speak for yourself
For many Contra Costa families, estate planning became a way to stay prepared—not just in case of death, but in case of serious illness or incapacity.
Families Wanted More Control Over Outcomes
During the pandemic, families saw firsthand how unpredictable life could be. Many realized that without a plan in place, decisions about their health, property, or finances could end up in someone else’s hands—or tied up in court.
That’s why we saw more people asking about:
- Durable powers of attorney – to make sure someone they trusted could step in for them
- Revocable living trusts – to avoid delays and maintain privacy in case something happened
- Guardianship nominations – for parents who wanted to name someone they trust to take care of their children
For multigenerational households especially, planning became a priority. With older adults and caregivers living under the same roof, families began looking for ways to protect everyone financially and legally. We help clients design plans that reflect these real-life dynamics, not one-size-fits-all documents.
Younger Adults Took Action, Too
It wasn’t just older adults who started thinking differently. Many people in their 30s and 40s—especially those with kids—took the first steps toward estate planning during the pandemic.
For some, the impetus came from knowing someone who had been seriously ill. For others, it was the realization that they were caring for both children and aging parents, and needed a plan of their own. Whatever the reason, more young adults in Contra Costa took the time to set up:
- Wills and trusts
- Guardianship nominations for minor children
- Basic health and financial powers of attorney
We encourage this shift. Estate planning isn’t just for retirees—it’s for anyone who wants to make things easier for their family in a time of need.
Let’s Build on That Momentum
If COVID-19 taught us anything, it’s that tomorrow isn’t guaranteed. But with a solid estate plan in place, you can take back a sense of control and provide support for your loved ones.
Whether you’re updating your plan or starting one from scratch, we’re here to help you get it done in a way that works for your family. At Horizon Elder Law & Estate Planning, Inc., we guide Contra Costa families through every step with compassion and clarity. Contact us today to get started.