The University of Maryland Francis King Carey School of Law prepares students for productive leadership and professional roles in law, public service, business, and government.  Among its many programs, the UM Carey School of Law offers the Law & Health Care Program, which includes an elective in Elder Law. This is an important field of study, since population aging has increased the demand for legal advocates knowledgeable in gerontology. These individuals support older persons and their families as they navigate issues likely to arise as a result of growing older. Elder law attorneys can assist with legal matters related to estate planning; asset protection; health care needs planning, including advance directives; and elder abuse recognition, reporting, and prevention.