Adult Visitation Laws

Imagine this, your father is very ill and in the hospital, your father’s doctor makes it seem like he isn’t going to last the week. Naturally most children and grandchildren want to say their last goodbyes and spend the last moments cherishing what little time with him that he has left. Now imagine your step mother/ guardian of your father says no. In 49 out of 50 states, NO MEANS NO! However, one state is leading the way: IOWA.

This started with the famous radio personality Casey Kasem, who was ill and his daughter Kerri Kasem wanted to see her father. A year after the children sought court action to see their father, Iowa law ensures that adult children can see their sick parents. [1]

If other states adopt the same or a very similar law, no one can keep you from your parents when they are ill. As sad at it may be, it happens all the time. Below are some links to get involved or for assistance if you are having a similar issue.

Read the law in it’s entirety: http://coolice.legis.iowa.gov/Cool-ICE/default.asp?Category=billinfo&Service=Billbook&menu=false&hbill=sf306

To learn more about the Kasem Cares foundation and to help further legislation of bill across the entire United States: http://www.kasemcares.com/

If you are having similar issues, contact an Elder Law Attorney in your state: http://www.longtermcarelink.net/a2cfindattorney.htm

[1] http://www.nytimes.com/aponline/2015/04/24/us/ap-us-adult-children-visitation.html?_r=0

-Written by Valerie Michel Buck