Last week I saw a new client who was seeking to be appointed as administrator of her friend's estate. She was motivated to do so because her friend had no family. The woman had died unexpectedly and my client had called the police after trying to reach her friend repeatedly.
Unfortunately, the woman could not even be buried right away because she had not designated a funeral agent and there was no known next-of-kin. Moreover, when my client was able to access her friend's apartment, it became clear that she had not been receiving the help she desperately needed for some time.
The increasing isolation some seniors face has given rise to a new term, "elder orphan". There is even an Elder Orphan Facebook group. This phenomena is due in part to changing demographics. A recent study found that 22 percent of older adults are childless or aren't in contact with their children.
Although historically children and close relatives were the primary support for aging adults, there are many different ways to fill that gap. Whether through informal networks of friends and non-traditional families, or through the guidance of professionals like our firm and the use of technology, it is important to plan ahead.
As highlighted in the New Y0rk Times, there are a growing array of resources and options available to individuals who want to ensure they do not face the grim situation my client's friend did. Designating agents in estate planning documents is just one important step you can take to ensure the important people in your life can act on your behalf. Planning proactively will give you the peace of mind to know you do not have to face aging and illness alone.
