Ettinger Law Firm

Estate Planning With A Social Focus

For over four decades, Ettinger Law Firm has been transforming the way legal services are provided to older adults. Led by attorney Michael Ettinger, a recognized authority in elder law, the firm safeguards seniors' rights and well-being through the pioneering concept of "elder law estate planning." This distinctive approach integrates elder law and estate planning into a cohesive strategy that protects assets and ensures longterm care, financial security and peace of mind for seniors and their families. The firm’s hallmark is its tailored legal solutions that focus on the social side of estate planning. It goes beyond legally protecting clients to assuring they understand the social and emotional repercussions these plans can have on their heirs. “When you get into estate planning, how you leave the estate can either bring the family together or tear it apart,” says Ettinger, president. He emphasizes an approach designed to prevent conflicts between heirs and create a lasting legacy beyond financial distributions. Ettinger’s style is deeply informed by his extensive expertise. He has authored several books and more than 200 articles that appeared in leading legal publications on elder law and estate planning. His commitment to creating a comfortable, judgment-free environment puts clients at ease. The trademarked estate planning process ensures that every aspect of a client’s plan is well-managed.

Senior Care

GrandPad

Redefining Aging with Connection and Care

Scott Lien, CEO and Co-founder

Think about how much easier your daily life is with a smartphone. In seconds, you can check your bank balance, order groceries, book a doctor’s appointment, or connect with loved ones. Now imagine being locked out of that convenience—forced to rely on outdated, time-consuming methods for even the simplest tasks. This is the reality for millions of seniors who are left out of the digital world—not because they don’t want to engage, but because modern technology isn’t as comfortable, intuitive, or approachable as it should be. Scott Lien witnessed this firsthand when his aging mother struggled with modern devices. As the world advanced around her, she became increasingly disconnected simply because traditional technology wasn’t designed with her ease of use in mind. Determined to change this, Lien and his son, Isaac Lien, founded GrandPad—a company dedicated to making technology simple, safe, and accessible for seniors. GrandPad’s flagship product, also called GrandPad, is an all-in-one tablet and phone solution designed specifically for seniors who have been left out of today’s digital conveniences. Unlike traditional smartphones and tablets, which can be frustratingly complex, GrandPad prioritizes simplicity. It features an intuitive interface, easy navigation, and built-in security, making technology approachable rather than overwhelming. “Our 90-90 rule is central to GrandPad’s design: the device can be set up with minimal effort, using only familiar language, and with zero complexity,” says Scott Lien, CEO and co-founder of GrandPad. The “90/90 rule” states that a 90-year-old should be able to confidently use the device within 90 seconds. It’s ideal for seniors who struggle with newer technology, offering peace of mind to both users and their loved ones. Unlike most smart devices that require Wi-Fi setup, GrandPad can be connected via 4G LTE or Wi-Fi, ensuring seniors stay connected without the need for tech-savvy troubleshooting. This connectivity is more than just a convenience—it’s a lifeline. During the California wildfires, when power and internet outages left many seniors stranded, GrandPad users remained connected to emergency alerts, loved ones, and first responders, demonstrating the realworld impact of accessibility-driven technology. Beyond staying connected, GrandPad enhances seniors’ daily lives. Pre-installed apps allow users to make video calls, send messages, browse photos, listen to music, and play games designed to keep their minds engaged. A large, easy-to-read interface ensures effortless navigation, even for those with visual impairments. Recognizing seniors’ unique needs, GrandPad regularly collaborates with their Grand Advisors—a panel of 80+ adults who provide user feedback to ensure every feature is truly intuitive..

Senior Living Services

Benchmark Senior Living

Putting Residents’ Needs First in Mind and Memory Care

John Hartmayer, Chief Operations Officer

Since its founding in 1997, Benchmark Senior Living has been synonymous with excellence in senior care. As New England’s largest senior living and memory care provider, its mission is clear: to transform lives through human connection. With 66 communities across eight states and a new location set to open this spring in Thornwood, New York in Westchester County, Benchmark’s commitment to fostering human connection and celebrating individuality has made it a trusted partner for families navigating the complexities of memory care. At the core of Benchmark’s philosophy is a culture that hires for heart and trains for skill. This human-centric approach ensures that every associate—from caregivers to executive directors—shares the vision of creating a community where residents thrive. Associates undergo education and training, including Benchmark’s nationally recognized Connect First program. It teaches staff how to interpret and respond to nonverbal communication from residents with cognitive impairments, helping to reduce confusion and anxiety while fostering deeper connections. Additionally, the Dementia Live® simulation program immerses caregivers in the experience of living with dementia, fostering empathy and understanding that go beyond clinical care. Benchmark’s dedication to putting residents first is evident in every aspect of its Mind & Memory Care offerings. Caregivers are not just trained professionals—they are Certified Dementia Practitioners and compassionate companions who prioritize emotional and physical well-being. “From creating individualized care plans to fostering meaningful moments, our staff’s attention to detail ensures that each resident feels valued and supported,” says John Hartmayer, Chief Operations Officer.

IN MY OPINION

Retirement Communities

What to Know About Continuing Care Retirement Communities (CCRCs)

Sarah DiStefano, BSW, Resident Service Support Coordinator, Asbury Communities, Inc.

LAST WORD

Independent Living

Pioneering Holistic Elder Care: Good Samaritan Societys Strategic Vision for Enhanced Quality of Life

Joseph (Joey) Caster, Director of Senior Living, Good Samaritan Society

IN FOCUS

The New Age of Aging: Integrating Elder Law with Senior Care Technology

The aging population has led families to increasingly rely on elder law and senior care technology to ensure their loved ones receive proper care and protection.

Learn more

Redefining Connection: Modern Approaches to Social Isolation

Social isolation is a complex and multifaceted issue that impacts individuals worldwide, with profound effects on mental and emotional well-being.

Learn more

EDITORIAL

Digital Dawn in Elder Care

With the digital revolution touching every facet of our lives, it’s time to reexamine how innovations in legal advocacy, memory care and social connections are reshaping elder care space. Gone are the days when tradition and inertia held sway; today’s technological breakthroughs, personalized services and community-building are redefining what it means to care for our elders.

Leading elder law firms are leveraging digital estate planning tools, AIdriven document review and secure online portals to offer more efficient, transparent and client-focused services. Memory care is undergoing a radical reinvention where cutting-edge research meets compassionate care. Providers are now integrating cognitive rehabilitation techniques with immersive technologies such as VR experiences to trigger cherished memories and AI-assisted therapy sessions that adapt to individual needs.

Companies are also deploying smart community engagement tools, virtual support networks and telehealth platforms that actively bridge the gap between technology and the human touch.

Driven by these trends, the global elder care market is projected to reach $1.97 trillion by the end of 2033, growing at a CAGR of 7.50 percent .

This edition of the Elder Care Review offers a detailed look into the latest innovations in elder law, memory care services and social isolation solutions and how companies align with these trends.

The magazine features a thought-provoking article from Clemente Aquino, Vice President of Rehab Practice Standards at Life Care Centers of America. In it, he emphasizes that eldercare must evolve in addressing the challenges post-COVID and embracing technology while never losing sight of the critical role that skilled nursing and coordinated care play. Another article by Joseph Caster, Director of Senior Living, Good Samaritan Society, underscores that innovative elder care means looking at the big picture— making sure seniors not just live longer but live better, with dignity and a rich, fulfilling life.

We also bring you top elder care law firms that provide cutting-edge products and solutions. A noteworthy story is that of Ettinger Law Firm. This well-established company offers innovative “elder law estate planning” to safeguard seniors’ rights, assets and well-being. Operating from 12 offices across New York, it has served tens of thousands of clients.

In this edition featuring the Top Elder Law Firm, Memory Care Services Provider and Social Isolation Solutions 2025, we hope you find the right partner to meet your organization’s needs.

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