Guardianship is crucial for people with elderly loved ones like parents or siblings. Different types of guardianship exist. Thus, you should understand how each works to choose the most suitable one.
Nonetheless, at times, guardianship raises debates, with one of the concerns being whether people should consider it. Can it benefit you and your loved one? This guide discusses why you may need to find a guardian for an elderly person.
You live far away
If you have a loved one with health concerns like Alzheimer’s disease, dementia and other medical conditions, it will be best to live with them. But if for some reason, it’s not possible, you should consider working with a nearby guardian. The guardian will make informed medical and daily life decisions, ensuring your loved one is healthy and safe.
Reliable guardians make decisions in the best interest of the elder. They will ask doctors questions, research conditions and turn down recommendations that may harm their clients.
You’re worried about exploitation
If an incapacitated senior has a will or finances that might be subject to exploitation, perhaps there is a rivalry among family members, finding a guardian may help. In most cases, institutions that offer guardianship also have conservatorship. Therefore, they will assign an expert to manage the elderly person’s financial affairs.
Besides protecting your loved one from exploitation, the conservator will ensure their finances are spent wisely on care.
You and your family should find a reputable guardian for your elderly love when the time comes. However, don’t rush and learn more about this alternative to avoid disputes in the family.
