As an elder care mediator, I guide a discussion between family members who are struggling with elder care issues.  Elder care mediation helps families clarify their problems, focus on the real issue at hand, and preserves family relationships. Mediation provides family members the opportunity to engage in a meaningful discussion so that they can come to a resolution together. Elder care mediation benefits families by allowing them see a variety of options and to focus on the best interest of their parent. Mediation allows families to help their parent maintain a sense of dignity by being involved in the decision making process as much as possible. Mediation is cost effective, saves time, and may help avoid guardianship proceedings in court.

Family members choose the topics that they want to discuss. Problems that families encounter are varied but may include: 

Mediation is an informal process that allows each family member time to voice their concerns and offer suggestions to resolve conflicts. As an elder care mediator, I lead an organized discussion between family members. We meet together so each member can truly hear what someone else is saying. During the meeting I may have private conversations with each participant as well, so that information and suggestions can be given in a more private manner.  

A mediator is not a judge and does not make decisions for the family. Likewise, a mediator is not the family's attorney and does not provide legal advice. The mediation process empowers the family to come together and work out an agreement between themselves. As a mediator, I try to help families discuss their unique set of problems so that they can come to an agreement in a cost effective, hassle-free and time-effective manner.

Edie Steinberg is an attorney-mediator specializing in elder care issues.
Ms. Steinberg is certified as a mediator by the Center for Conflict Resolution and as an eldercare mediator by the Mediation Training and Consultation Institute. She is a member of the Advisory Board of the John Marshall Law School Elder Law Programs. Ms. Steinberg's practice serves Chicago, the northern suburban community, and the north shore.