New Bedford, Massachusetts – The new PBS documentary Caregiving, executive produced by Bradley Cooper and narrated by Uzo Aduba, has struck a powerful chord across the country, but especially with the team at Surprenant, Beneski & Nunes, P.C. As a firm that works closely with families navigating the legal and financial realities of caregiving, the stories portrayed in the film mirror what we see every day in our practice. 

Caregiving explores the lives of paid and unpaid caregivers across the U.S., highlighting their strength, selflessness, and the emotional and financial challenges they often face. Through the stories of people like Jacquelyn Joyce Revere, who cared for her mother and grandmother with dementia, and Carlos Olivas Jr., a devoted son supporting his veteran father, the documentary brings much-needed attention to what has become a national issue. 

“We see the toll caregiving takes on families – emotionally, financially, and legally,” said Erin L. Nunes, Managing Partner of Surprenant, Beneski & Nunes. “This documentary gives a voice to the very real experiences of our clients. It’s a powerful reminder of why planning matters – not just for those receiving care, but for the ones providing it.” 

We would like to emphasize that while estate planning can’t ease the emotional weight of caregiving, it can reduce the uncertainty and stress that often accompany it. Thoughtful legal planning offers tools to help caregivers and families prepare for the road ahead, including: 

• Making wishes clear with wills, trusts, and healthcare directives
• Reducing financial strain by protecting assets and exploring long-term care strategies
• Empowering caregivers through powers of attorney and health care proxies
• Minimizing conflict by establishing legal clarity before a crisis arises

By proactively putting these protections in place, families can focus more on providing meaningful care and less on scrambling to make decisions during moments of crisis. 

Surprenant, Beneski & Nunes encourages everyone to watch Caregiving, available through PBS, and reflect on the issues it raises. “This isn’t just a documentary, it’s a call to action,” Nunes added. “Now is the time to have those important conversations and take steps that will support not just your loved ones, but the caregivers in your life.” 

To learn more about how estate planning can support your caregiving journey, visit our website at myfamilyestateplanning.com to schedule a consultation.