Boomer Time with Nancy Cogar

If your family is impacted by a dementia diagnosis you are not alone. Dementia is the designated term for a variety of cognitive disorders which can range from Alzheimer's, to sundowners, to Parkinson's and Lewy Body Syndrome. The disease affects millions of Americans and is projected to significantly increase in the coming decades. Currently 7 million Americans living with dementia. That is one in ten people age 65 over and its ex...

We've often discussed typical estate planning, but what happens when an estate is more substantial? These are known as high-net-worth estates. In this episode, we'll delve into what constitutes such an estate, what they might entail, the inherent risks without proper planning, and real-life examples to illustrate these points.

Let's begin with a clear definition. A "high-net-worth estate" isn't just abo...

Dealing with the loss of a loved one is never easy. It's a time filled with grief, a whirlwind of emotions, and a lot of uncertainty. On my podcast, Boomer Time, I often get asked, "What do I do next?" when someone loses a loved one. It's a 911 call for help, and honestly, it's a question that needs a thoughtful answer.

First and foremost, let's acknowledge the pain. Grief is essential. Allow yourself t...

My latest episode will focus on a “sensitive topic” and this may be one of the toughest to talk about. Death. What do you want done with your body when you’re gone. It’s not as simple as you might think and if you don’t plan you may be leaving a significant financial burden for your loved ones.

There are lots of options – more than you may realize. How do you want to go out? I’ve got folks don’t want a funeral or want a big par...

This week, we’re talking about funeral home drama. You don’t want it – you may worry about that one loose cannon that may show up a the funeral, right.  I’ve got a few of those in my own family so I know you’re pain.  When family feuds, old grudges, and poor planning collide at one of the most emotional times in life.

I’ve seen stories of it all — the brawls, the breakdowns, and yes, even a fistfight next to the casket. So, gra...

Welcome back to Boomer Time! It's your host, Nancy Cogar, here today to talk about something that can feel a little intimidating: estate planning. And you know what? I hear from so many of you who feel like your questions might be "dumb." Let me tell you something right off the bat – when it comes to protecting your future and the people you love, there's absolutely no such thing as a "dumb" question.

In ...

Older adults are the main target and the victims with the biggest losses, according to newly released numbers from the Federal Trade Commission (FTC). And the losses are astronomical: a record $12.5 billion was reported stolen through scams and fraud last year, up 25 percent from $10 billion in 2023.

The overall cost of these crimes continues to skyrocket: Just four years ago, in 2020, Americans lost far less, $3.5 billion, to fraud...

In Episode #66 of the Boomer Time Podcast, I sit down with Amy Clarke of Morning Pointe Senior Living to discuss the crucial needs of both seniors and their caregivers. She announces the upcoming annual Caregiver Cafe, a free community event sponsored by the Morning Pointe Foundation.

This seminar series aims to educate and inform families facing difficult aging-related decisions. I am honored to be a panelist this year and look fo...

What if a loved one dies? What are you responsible for?

When a loved one passes away, it's important to know which debts and bills you are not responsible for. Generally, you are not personally responsible for a deceased person's debts unless you were a co-signer, joint account holder, or otherwise legally obligated.

Episode 65 provides a breakdown of what you could be liable for and more.

----Nancy A. Cogar, Esq., has a ...

So, I wanted to start off today on a personal note, as I sometimes do, because as you know, I’m not just a lawyer; I’m also a caregiver. I want to share with you a deeply personal story about my own journey with my 83-year-old mother, who recently had a stroke and is transitioning from independent living to assisted living care.

If you’re facing a similar situation or just trying to prepare for the future, this episode is for you. W...

In this episode of Boomer Time, we're shifting focus slightly. I want to discuss the recent news of Gene Hackman's death because it offers additional important lessons. These include everything from end-of-life care to necessary support, estate planning (which we've already touched on in several past episodes), and the potential for abuse and exploitation. We're discussing issues that arise in the sunset years and h...

I want to talk about a crucial topic — Medicare, Medicaid, and how they fit into estate planning and important differences between the two.  It can be confusing, and they are both quite different. Whether you are navigating your own healthcare needs or helping a loved one, today’s episode is packed with important information that can make a real difference in managing long-term care and protecting assets.

If you are an older adult ...

For many Baby Boomers, the idea of needing assistance as we age can feel overwhelming, and the possibility of a conservatorship may seem like an inevitable reality. Last episode we talked about conservatorships tackling what they are, their purpose and some of the challenges they present AND how to avoid them.

If you missed that episode I encourage you to go back and listen because there was a lot of good information in that episod...

Whether you're a caregiver for an elderly family member, or someone who’s concerned about their own future care, understanding conservatorships is crucial. But it’s not all smooth sailing. There are some serious pitfalls, and real-life stories which can be downright scary -- like that of pop singer Britney Spears' recent legal battle over her conservatorship, and TV host Wendy Williams where it seems unclear whether she nee...

In this episode, we are talking about Executors Behaving Badly. These are the folks that you name in your Will to take charge of your affairs when you die.  These are the same folks you trust will follow your instructions in that document.

Well people are people, right?  Sometimes it doesn’t go that way – actually in can go way of course.  I’m talking Executors stealing funds, running off, forgetting to tell the Court that they have...

I’ve always said that when it comes to elder law needs, proactive planning is crucial to avoid costly and emotionally draining court battles. By taking preventative measures, you can ensure that wishes are respected, assets are protected, and that your family is spared from unnecessary conflict.

In Ep. 58 of Boomer Time, I elaborate on these strategies. Also, I encourage you to plan a strategy session of your own. All you have to do...

Episode Takeaways:

Caregiving is physically and emotionally demanding, and caregivers must assess their own stamina and support systems.

Before accepting a caregiving role, fully understand the person's needs, including insurance coverage, medical conditions, medications, and legal documents.

Create a care plan for present and future care, and assess the financial resources available.

Seek professional guidance, including an el...

Nancy A. Cogar, Esq., has a Tennessee-based practice in estate planning, elder law, long-term care planning & advocacy for older adults. As a partner with Samples, Jennings, Clem & Fields, PLLC, she is committed to comprehensive, competent & compassionate advocacy for seniors, caregivers and families navigating aging and the incoming Silver Tsunami.

🔑 For help, visit NancyCogar.com

🎙️ Listen to the Boomer Time wi...

Nancy A. Cogar, Esq., has a Tennessee-based practice in estate planning, elder law, long-term care planning & advocacy for older adults. As a partner with Samples, Jennings, Clem & Fields, PLLC, she is committed to comprehensive, competent & compassionate advocacy for seniors, caregivers and families navigating aging and the incoming Silver Tsunami.

🔑 For help, visit NancyCogar.com

🎙️ Listen to the Boomer Time wi...