Caring for a loved one with dementia often means walking a tightrope between keeping them safe and helping them stay joyful. In our efforts to prevent falls, injuries, or confusion, we sometimes take away the small pleasures that give life meaning. This article explores how to find that balance—offering practical, compassionate ways to support dignity, independence, and everyday happiness while still prioritizing safety.
Posts By Author: Tiffany O'Connell
What Are the Benefits of a Revocable Living Trust in Massachusetts?
A revocable living trust is one of the most effective tools for managing assets during life and transferring them smoothly after death. Residents of Boston, Longmeadow, and Vermont often ask whether it’s right for them. Avoiding Probate With A Revocable Living Trust Assets in a trust pass directly to beneficiaries without going through probate. This… Read More »
Can I Write My Own Will in Massachusetts or Vermont?
The internet makes it easy to find will templates, but do-it-yourself estate planning often causes more problems than it solves. Families in Brimfield, Natick, and across Vermont frequently ask if they can legally write their own will—and whether it will hold up in court. What the Law Allows Related To Writing Your Own Will Massachusetts… Read More »
New HSA Rules and Opportunities in 2026
Health Savings Accounts (HSAs) have long been one of the smartest ways to save for medical expenses—but recent changes make them even more powerful. With expanded eligibility, new flexibility for direct primary care and telehealth, and improved options for marketplace plans, HSAs can now play a bigger role in both your healthcare and financial planning. Here’s what you need to know as we head into 2026.
When Should I Update My Estate Plan in Massachusetts?
Life changes—and your estate plan should, too. Many people in Eastern Massachusetts, Dover, and Framingham complete their estate plans and then forget about them. But outdated documents can cause major issues later. Key Times to Update Your Estate Plan Marriage or Divorce: Relationship changes require updates to beneficiaries, executors, and trustees. Birth or Adoption of… Read More »
Do I Need a Health Care Proxy If I Already Have a Living Will?
In Massachusetts and Vermont, people often confuse these two important medical planning documents. Both are valuable, but they serve different purposes—and having only one may leave gaps in your protection. What a Health Care Proxy Does A Health Care Proxy lets you appoint a trusted person—known as your agent—to make medical decisions if you’re unable… Read More »
What Is the Cost of Setting Up an Estate Plan in Massachusetts or Vermont?
When families in Eastern Massachusetts, Central Massachusetts, or the Pioneer Valley start thinking about estate planning, one of the first questions they ask is, “How much will this cost?” The short answer is: it depends. Costs vary depending on your goals, assets, and the complexity of your plan—but understanding what you’re paying for helps you… Read More »
Filial Responsibility – What Your Need to Know
While rarely enforced, filial responsibility laws still remain a law in many states including Massachusetts. With budgets tightening and political landscapes shifting, these laws could see renewed attention. As federal discussions around healthcare and Medicaid continue, states may face financial strain and may look to these old statutes to hold children liable for their parent’s… Read More »
How Can I Avoid Probate in Massachusetts?
Why People Want to Avoid Probate Probate can be lengthy, public and expensive. Estates in Boston or Northampton often spend months waiting for court approval before heirs can access assets. Avoiding probate saves time, money, and privacy. Probate Avoidance Strategies That Work Revocable Living Trust Transferring property into a trust allows it to pass directly… Read More »
What’s the Difference Between Power of Attorney and Guardianship?
Power of Attorney (POA) A Power of Attorney is a legal document you sign while competent, granting someone authority to handle your financial or legal affairs. It can take effect immediately or only if you become incapacitated. Residents across Eastern Massachusetts, from Boston to Brookline, often use durable POAs to ensure continuity in bill-paying, banking,… Read More »