December 2023
If you are a disabled worker, it is natural to worry about your family’s well-being after you pass. Knowing that your surviving family members are often entitled to some or all of the SSDI benefits you received while alive can bring peace of mind. To best protect your survivors, it is important to understand which of them are eligible to apply for continuing payments. Spouses Your spouse may receive SSDI benefits after your death. To qualify, he or she must meet specific criteria, including being at least 60 years old or 50 years old if disabled . Additionally, if your surviving spouse cares for your child who is under the age of 16 or disabled, eligibility for benefits may extend. Children If they meet age and dependency requirements, your kids may also qualify for benefits. Generally, unmarried children under the age of 18 (or 19 if still in high school) can receive them, and adult children who became disabled before the age of 22 may also be eligible. Dependent parents When you have dependent parents, it is comforting to know they can receive SSDI payments. Again, certain criteria apply, such as being at least 62 years old and having been dependent on you for at least half of their financial support. Siblings or partners While spouses, children and dependent parents may be eligible for survivor benefits, siblings and common-law partners generally do not qualify under SSDI regulations. The eligibility prioritizes only certain familial relationships in determining entitlement. Although not all of your relations can access your SSDI benefits, do not assume that this financial resource is not available to your survivors. Research, preparation and timely filing of claims following your death ensures your family members receive their entitled benefits.
Ensuring your loved ones receive the care they deserve in a nursing home is a top priority. It is important to identify signs that indicate a facility’s commitment to providing excellent care. 1. Staff-to-resident ratio One vital sign of a quality nursing home is a sufficient staff-to-resident ratio. Adequate staffing ensures that each resident receives personalized attention and timely assistance. When staff members can devote time to understanding individual needs, it fosters a more supportive and responsive environment. The U.S. Department of Health and Human Resources recently proposed new minimum staffing requirements, which would require nearly 75% of nursing homes to increase their staff. 2. Clean and well-maintained facilities Cleanliness speaks volumes about the overall quality of care in a nursing home. A well-maintained facility not only promotes a healthy environment but also reflects the level of respect and dignity the staff has for the residents. Check for cleanliness in common areas, bedrooms and bathrooms. 3. Engaging activities and social interaction An essential aspect of resident well-being is engagement in meaningful activities. A good nursing home provides a range of activities tailored to residents’ interests and abilities. Look for evidence of organized events, social gatherings and recreational opportunities. Residents should have the chance to participate in activities that enhance their physical, mental and emotional well-being. 4. Transparent communication with families Effective communication between the nursing home and families is a necessity. Look for signs that the facility is transparent about residents’ care plans, health updates and any changes in their condition. Regular meetings or updates, either in person or through written communication, demonstrate a commitment to keeping families informed. Carefully observing these signs can help you make an informed decision when selecting a nursing home for your loved ones.
