When facing serious illness, many patients and families are unsure about the types of care available. Two commonly confused terms are palliative care and hospice care. While both provide support for individuals with chronic or serious conditions, they are not the same, and understanding the difference can make a big impact on treatment decisions.   What Is Palliative Care? Palliative care is specialized medical care focused on providing relief from the symptoms, pain, and str

More adults than ever are aging without a spouse, children, or nearby family to rely on. These “solo agers” are independent, capable, and often deeply connected to friends—but they may wonder: Who will be there for me when I need support?   One increasingly popular answer is to create your own community. Rather than aging alone, many solo agers are intentionally forming shared living arrangements with trusted friends, pooling resources, sharing responsibilities, and building

By Dana Hentschel, Outreach Coordinator   This winter, Nashville experienced a historic ice storm. For a full week leading up to it, meteorologists warned us to prepare, stock up on essentials, expect to be stuck at home, and be ready for possible power outages lasting days. Some people heeded the warning. Others dismissed it as hype, just another excuse to empty grocery store shelves. A winter storm has caused significant damage, with ice-laden trees collapsing onto power li

Johnson McGinnis Elder Care Law & Estate Planning, PLLC is proud to announce that Partner and Certified Elder Law Attorney Barbara Boone McGinnis has been recognized in the 2026 edition of The Best Lawyers in America® for her work in Elder Law. This marks her third consecutive year receiving this prestigious distinction. Paralegals Agatha Wallace & Sarah Marlett In addition, Johnson McGinnis has been named to the 2026 edition of Best Law Firms®, earning a Regional Tier 1 rank

Receiving one’s driver license is customarily seen as a rite of passage into adulthood. However, the privileges of driving often come at a cost as the years progress and symptoms of aging begin to appear. When is it no longer safe for a person to drive? In Tennessee, the most common reason is when physical, cognitive (e.g., Alzheimer’s disease, seizures and loss of consciousness), or sensory decline impairs the ability to react quickly, navigate safely, or follow traffic rule

When families first hear that Medicaid can help pay for long-term care, whether in a nursing home or through in-home services, one fear almost always comes up: “Is the state going to take my house?” It’s a real concern, and one we hear every day at our firm. The fear is tied to a policy called Medicaid Estate Recovery. While estate recovery does exist, it’s often misunderstood, and that misunderstanding can lead to unnecessary panic, poor planning, and real financial harm.  

Weather emergencies can happen at any time, and for families caring for older adults, preparation is more than a convenience, it’s a necessity.   Why Planning Matters More for Older Adults While no one can control the weather, families can control how prepared they are. Sudden snowstorms, ice, power outages, or extreme heat can quickly turn everyday routines into dangerous situations for seniors. particularly those living alone or relying on outside caregivers. Planning ahead

Most people hear the word probate and immediately think “long, expensive, and stressful.” While it’s true that probate is often something families want to avoid, it’s a misconception that probate is always  bad. In reality, there are many situations where probate isn’t just necessary, it’s actually the safest and most effective way to protect your loved ones and ensure your wishes are carried out.   Let’s break down when probate is needed, how it can be used strategically, a

We are proud to announce that Johnson McGinnis Elder Care Law & Estate Planning PLLC has been recognized in the 2026 edition of Best Law Firms® —a prestigious distinction that reflects our unwavering commitment to excellence, integrity, and client service. A Mark of Excellence in Elder Law Johnson McGinnis has earned a Regional Tier 1 ranking in Elder Law in Nashville, placing our firm among the most respected practices in the region. This recognition highlights not only our

Learn how to choose an attorney-in-fact of attorney and executor for your will in Tennessee to protect your future and loved ones.

Discover why marriage doesn’t automatically grant your spouse legal authority and how a Tennessee power of attorney can protect your family’s finances and healthcare decisions.

Learn about the VA Caregiver Support Program for Veterans in Tennessee, including eligibility, benefits, and how to apply for caregiver assistance.

Keep loved ones safe this season. Johnson McGinnis shares holiday safety tips for seniors with dementia across Tennessee.

When you have aging parents, small changes can build into larger concerns. Is it time to plan for your parents’ long-term care needs?

Before traveling, make sure you have the right legal documents for seniors who are traveling. Johnson McGinnis explains what to bring.

Learn how to leave an inheritance to an adult child with special needs in a way that protects government benefits while providing long-term financial security.

Alzheimer’s does more than take memories. It reshapes lives, families, and futures. But you can take steps now to protect their wishes.

Planning for assisted living costs is easier with legal guidance that protects assets, explores benefits, and secures family finances.