Getting Started
By following a person-centered life care planning process, you can keep the person with a disability or other special need as the primary focus, and develop a life care plan that helps enable that person to obtain the best quality of life possible.
A life care plan is a coordinated program of social, medical, financial, and legal strategies for people with disabilities and their families. A life care plan continually changes to adapt to the needs of the individual throughout his or her life.
Financial Professional
A financial professional who specializes in special needs analysis and strategy will work with the person with a disability or other special need, their family members or caregiver, and their personal advisors to:
- Understand the social, medical, and legal needs of the person with the disability or special need;
- Review your financial picture;
- Learn about options that make sense for your situation;
- Ensure benefits such as Medicaid or Supplemental Security Income won't inadvertently be jeopardized, and;
- Maximize finances, and help maintain the lifestyle of the individual with special needs.
Medical Professionals
Medical professionals provide informational and emotional support for the individual with special needs and/or families.
Social Workers
Social workers often act as the client advocate when working with other service professionals (e.g. schools, medical facilities, financial advisors and/or special care planners).
Attorneys
Attorneys provide legal services for people with disabilities and other special needs, their families or caregivers. They work closely with financial advisors and other Financial Services Representatives to develop the proper documentation for various items such as trusts.
Accountants
Accountants, working with Financial Services Representatives and other advisors, seek to understand the unique financial requirements of a person with a disability or other special needs and his or her family in order to help them properly develop a life care plan.
Family Member or Caregiver
The family member or caregiver plays a pivotal role in determining the proper care and benefits for the person with a disability by working closely with other members of the team.