Shepherd Elder Law Group

06/03/2026

Many families wait until a health emergency or sudden decline before addressing essential legal documents, but by then, options may be limited.

The best time to put a plan in place is before a crisis, while your loved one can still understand and sign the necessary documents.

A Financial Power of Attorney and a Health Care Proxy serve different purposes, and most families benefit from having both in place. Additionally, HIPAA authorizations can make the difference between receiving important medical information and being unable to access it when you need it most.

Even if planning has been delayed, meaningful steps can still be taken today to reduce risk, protect you and your loved one, and provide greater peace of mind for the future.

To help guide families through these decisions, we’re sharing: The Family Caregiver’s Legal Checklist: 10 Things to Do Now.
https://shepherdelderlaw.com/the-family-caregivers-legal-checklist-10-things-to-do-now/

06/02/2026

💐 Today, the team at Shepherd Elder Law Group gathered to "shower" our wonderful paralegal, Cheryl Burns, and celebrate her recent marriage to Frank! Thanks go out to Samantha L Shepherd and Marissa Vargo Wills for organizing such a thoughtful celebration and helping make the day so special.

We are so happy for Cheryl as she begins this exciting new chapter and were honored to spend some time celebrating her. Please join us in wishing Cheryl and Frank a lifetime of happiness, love, and cherished memories together. Congratulations! 💍❤️

05/22/2026

As Memorial Day approaches, all of us at Shepherd Elder Law Group pause to honor and remember the brave men and women who made the ultimate sacrifice in service to our country. 🇺🇸

In observance of Memorial Day, our office will be closed on Monday, May 25. We will resume normal business hours upon our return on May 26th.

We wish everyone a safe and meaningful holiday weekend as we reflect on the courage and sacrifice of our nation’s heroes.

05/13/2026

Falls prevention starts with awareness, education, and community support. 💙

Recently, Sara Albright, Community Education Liaison at Shepherd Elder Law Group, had the opportunity to participate in an educational event at the Smithville Senior Center hosted by the Clay-Platte Senior Falls Coalition in recognition of Older Americans Month.

Sara shared the important connection between exercise, muscle strength, balance, and fall prevention, while also discussing legal resources available to support older adults and their families as they navigate aging-related challenges.

It was wonderful to see so much engagement from attendees throughout the program, with many staying afterward to ask thoughtful questions and continue the conversation.

Thank you to the Clay-Platte Senior Falls Coalition and all of the presenters for helping bring valuable education and resources to our senior community!

05/06/2026

Planning for a loved one with special needs requires careful coordination - especially when it comes to higher education and financial aid.

The FAFSA (Free Application for Federal Student Aid) determines eligibility for grants, loans, and work-study, but not all assets are treated the same. Special needs trusts, if structured properly, may not count as student assets, which can make a meaningful difference in aid eligibility.

Our latest article breaks down what families need to know to protect both public benefits and access to financial aid.

Read more here: https://shepherdelderlaw.com/special-needs-trusts-and-financial-aid-fafsa-rules/

05/05/2026

Our team at Shepherd Elder Law Group concurs! It has been a blessing to have the KC Special Needs Planning Conference right in our backyard. It has also been wonderful to meet and hear from professionals across the country. A great 2 days!

04/27/2026

New home. New routines. New state.

But what about your estate plan?

Many families don’t realize that documents created in another state may not work the same way in Kansas or Missouri...especially when it comes to healthcare decisions or financial authority.

A simple review now can prevent complications later. For details, visit: https://shepherdelderlaw.com/moved-to-kansas-or-missouri-why-your-out-of-state-estate-plan-may-need-a-second-look/

Peace of mind starts with a plan that works where you live.

04/16/2026

Today is National Healthcare Decisions Day.

It’s a powerful reminder to make your healthcare wishes known - before a crisis happens. Advance directives allow you to document your decisions and designate someone you trust to speak on your behalf if you are unable.

If you haven’t completed yours yet, here are free, state-specific resources:

Kansas: https://www.caringinfo.org/planning/advance-directives/by-state/kansas/
Missouri: https://www.caringinfo.org/planning/advance-directives/by-state/missouri/

Taking this simple step today can bring clarity, peace of mind, and guidance for your loved ones tomorrow.

04/15/2026

Skilled nursing care is often essential after a hospital stay, but coverage doesn’t last forever.

Learn how Medicare works, when it ends, and how Medicaid may help with long-term care:
https://shepherdelderlaw.com/understanding-skilled-nursing-facility-care-medicare-coverage-and-medicaid-planning/

If you or your family are facing decisions about care after a hospital stay, we encourage you to start planning early. The right guidance can make all the difference - now and in the future.

04/13/2026