Elder Law in Maine

Can You Afford Nursing Home Care? Let’s Plan Ahead, Together.

Planning for the Next Chapter

As we age, the legal questions become more complex — and more personal. From long-term care to Medicare and Medicaid eligibility, elder law focuses on protecting you, your spouse, and your assets through the later years of life. At Paul O. Dillon Attorney at Law, we help Maine families make informed decisions that preserve dignity, provide protection, and avoid financial devastation.

Plan Ahead. Protect What You've Built.

Why Elder Law Planning Matters

Long-term nursing care in Maine can cost thousands per month — and most private health insurance doesn’t cover it. Without proper planning, families may be forced to spend down everything they’ve worked for just to qualify for Medicaid. We help clients navigate these challenges before a crisis hits, with guidance that blends legal planning, benefit eligibility, and asset protection strategies.

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How We Help

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1. Long-Term Care & Nursing Home Planning

We assess the real cost of care in Maine and help you plan for expenses without sacrificing everything you’ve saved.
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2. Medicaid Eligibility & Applications

From spend-down strategies to asset transfers, we help families understand if — and how — Medicaid may be an option.
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3. Medicare Education

We clarify what Medicare covers (and what it doesn’t), so you’re not left with dangerous gaps in coverage.
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4. Powers of Attorney & Health Directives

Ensure your voice is heard if you're unable to speak for yourself, with legally sound backup decision-makers in place.
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5. Guardianships & Protective Proceedings

We guide families through the legal process of appointing a guardian when a loved one becomes incapacitated.
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6. Senior Housing & Relocation Planning

Whether you're aging in place or downsizing to a senior living community, we help protect your rights, assets, and dignity.

Our Process

We’re here to listen — Schedule a consult today.

Navigating elder law takes more than forms and fine print — it takes thoughtful planning. Here’s how we help families in Maine take the next steps with confidence and care.

People
  • We begin by discussing who you’re planning for — whether it’s yourself, your spouse, your parents, or another loved one. We talk about goals, care needs, and the relationships that matter most.
Property
  • Then we review your financial picture. From retirement accounts to your home, we’ll look at what assets could be at risk — and what can be protected — through smart legal planning.
Plans
  • Next, we walk through options for long-term care, Medicaid eligibility, powers of attorney, and housing transitions. You’ll see the paths forward, and together we’ll create a plan that reflects your wishes and safeguards your future.
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FAQs

  • Is nursing home care covered by Medicare?

    Not in most cases. Medicare pays for less than 9% of nursing home costs nationwide. Planning is essential.

  • What’s the difference between Medicare and Medicaid?

    Medicare is a federal health program for people 65+, with no income limits. Medicaid is needs-based and helps pay for long-term care.

  • Can Medicaid take my home?

    Without planning, yes — in some cases. With the right legal strategies, we can help protect your home from recovery.

  • When should I start elder law planning?

    Ideally before a health crisis. Earlier planning gives you more options for asset protection and benefit access.

  • Can I help my parents plan if they’re resistant?

    Yes. We often work with adult children to gently begin these conversations and include them in consultations when appropriate.

  • Do I need a lawyer for Medicaid applications?

    It’s highly recommended. The process is complex, and mistakes can lead to delays, denials, or unnecessary spend-downs.

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Let’s talk about what matters — your independence, your care, and your peace of mind. We’ll help you plan with dignity and protect what you’ve built.