You have a close relative who has always been very independent. Therefore, it took you by surprise when you started to see that they are struggling with certain activities that they used to do with ease.
Age catches up with us all at some point, that’s an inescapable reality. However, that doesn’t mean that elderly people have to struggle. There are numerous legal tools that can help elderly individuals. Depending on the nature of someone’s circumstances, a guardian can potentially make a world of difference.
Finding a suitable place to live
There may come a stage in an elderly person’s life when they cannot manage their home like they used to. In fact, a large house might become a safety hazard. This is something that a guardian can assist with. They can help to determine whether or not the elderly individual needs to move to a smaller place or an assisted living facility.
Assisting with finances
Elderly individuals often find it hard to manage their finances. They may be susceptible to scam callers or attempt to give their money and belongings away to family members. A guardian can take over the management of an elderly individual’s finances. It’s important to remember that a guardian owes a fiduciary duty. Essentially, this means that they must always act in the best interests of the person they are responsible for and never for their own gain.
These are just some of the key responsibilities of a guardian, as there are several others. If you think that your elderly relative needs some assistance, then a good first step would be to seek legal guidance, perhaps to discuss – among other resources – the appointment of a guardian.
