Q: I am widowed and getting up there in age. I want to make sure I can protect myself. I own a home, a car, some certificate of deposits and a bank account.

A: This is a very complicated issue and you should sit down with an elder law attorney to review your entire situation-assets, income, insurance, health, everything. Very generally what is exempt are one automobile of any value, prepaid burial expenses, special needs trusts and $2,000 in liquid assets. Some assets are conditionally exempt, for example, the principal residence, while residing in it and some income producing property.