Introduction

Our legal needs change over the course of our lives. Elder law is an area of legal practice that focuses on issues that affect the ageing population.

Elder law generally describes the laws relating to powers of attorney, wills, guardianship and retirement.

One of the purposes of elder law is to prepare elderly people for financial freedom and autonomy through proper financial planning and long-term care options.

This chapter is committed to a range of issues that are especially relevant to older Canberrans, including:

• Enduring Powers of Attorney
• Advance Care Planning
• Guardianship and Financial Management
• Elder abuse
• Retirement Villages

Unfortunately older persons may be find themselves in a position of some vulnerability. Sadly it is not uncommon for older persons to be exposed to psychological, financial and physical abuse. There are, however, steps that people can take to help protect them against the risk of harm. Some of those steps are discussed in this chapter.

Wills and Estates are discussed in another chapter (see Wills and Estates Chapter).