Reed Wilson Case

What is a death doula?

More families are beginning to explore the role of death doulas as part of end-of-life planning and support. While they do not provide medical or legal advice, death doulas can help individuals and families navigate emotional, practical, and personal aspects of the dying process with compassion and presence.

Our newest article explains:
✔️ What a death doula does
✔️ How they differ from hospice care
✔️ The support they provide families
✔️ How they can fit into end-of-life planning

Read more here:
https://reedwilsoncase.com/what-is-a-death-doula-understanding-their-role-in-end-of-life-planning/

Join Reed Wilson Case at the Haddam Senior Resources Fair!

Attorney Catherine Baccaro and Estate Planning Paralegal Rebecca Gordon - both Higganum residents and members of the RWC team - will be in attendance to meet with community members and share information about estate planning, elder law, probate, long-term care planning, and more.

We look forward to connecting with local seniors, families, and caregivers while supporting this wonderful community event.

If you're attending, be sure to stop by and say hello!

💜 June is Alzheimer's & Brain Awareness Month 💜

More than 7 million Americans are living with Alzheimer's disease, and millions of families are navigating the challenges that come with memory loss and cognitive decline.

This month, we honor those affected by Alzheimer's, support their caregivers, and help raise awareness about the importance of brain health, early planning, and community support.

If you have a loved one facing a diagnosis, having legal and financial plans in place can provide clarity and peace of mind for the future.

Summer is here, and our June newsletter is packed with resources to help Connecticut families plan ahead.

This month, we're sharing estate planning tips before summer travel, guidance for adult children caring for aging parents, Father's Day estate planning insights, legal protection for young adults turning 18, and information for LGBTQ+ couples. You'll also find upcoming community events, exciting firm news, and recognition for Attorneys Joan Reed Wilson and Cate Craig as 2026 Super Lawyers.

Take a few minutes to catch up on what's happening at Reed Wilson Case and in our community.

Read the full newsletter here:
https://mailchi.mp/reedwilsoncase/rwc-june-2026-newsletter

What is the Medicaid 5-year lookback period… and how does it actually work in Connecticut?

This is one of the most misunderstood parts of long-term care planning. Many families are surprised to learn that gifts, transfers, or even adding someone to an account can create problems later when applying for Medicaid.

Our newest article explains:
✔️ What the 5-year lookback period is
✔️ What transactions can trigger penalties
✔️ Common misconceptions
✔️ Why planning early matters

Read more here:
https://reedwilsoncase.com/how-the-5-year-lookback-period-actually-works-in-connecticut/

If you’ve started to wonder whether a senior community might be a better fit for your parent, but aren’t quite sure where to begin, you’re not alone.

This is one of the most important (and often overwhelming) decisions families face.

Join a free webinar featuring Melanie DiNicola, CSA, CDP of Senior Care Authority:

🗓 Tuesday, June 9 1:00 PM

When Home Isn’t Working Anymore: How to Know If a Senior Community Is the Better Fit Supporting Your Parent in Exploring Senior Community Options

You’ll learn:
✔️The differences between independent, assisted living, and memory care
✔️What really matters when comparing communities
✔️How to move forward with more clarity and confidence

https://www.eventcreate.com/e/beforethecrisis

Can’t attend live? Register anyway, and they'll send you the recording and workbook to review at your convenience.

Staying active and engaged is one of the best ways to support health at every stage of life.

On National Senior Health & Fitness Day, we celebrate the importance of movement, connection, and overall well-being for older adults in our community.

It’s also a great reminder that planning ahead, legally and financially, helps support independence and quality of life for years to come.

This Memorial Day, we honor and remember the men and women who gave their lives in service to our country. Their sacrifice is not forgotten.

In observance of the holiday, our office will be closed on Monday, May 25th, and will reopen on Tuesday.

Wishing everyone a safe and meaningful Memorial Day.

Can you sell a house in Connecticut if one of the owners has passed away?

The answer depends on how the property was owned. In some cases, the surviving owner can sell the property relatively easily. In others, probate or additional legal steps may be required before a sale can move forward.

Our newest article explains:
✔️ Joint ownership vs. tenants in common
✔️ When probate is required
✔️ What happens if the home is in a trust
✔️ Important Connecticut estate tax filing requirements

Read more here:
https://reedwilsoncase.com/can-you-sell-a-house-in-connecticut-if-one-owner-has-passed-away/

📣 Join ACAP South Central Connecticut for an important and timely program:

“High and Low Technology to Keep Your Parents Safe and Engaged at Home”

Technology can be a powerful tool in helping older adults remain safe, connected, and independent, but knowing what works (and what to avoid) can make all the difference. This free presentation will cover practical tools, accessibility features, scam awareness, and ways families can use technology to support aging loved ones at home.

📅 June 11 at 5:30 PM
📍 Masonicare at Ashlar Village, Wallingford

Reed Wilson Case is proud to support organizations like ACAP that provide valuable education and resources for adult children caring for aging parents. 💜