From the moment we are born, we look to our parents for guidance. Throughout our childhood, they taught us how to walk, talk, eat and everything else we needed to learn to be independent one day.
That is why it is so hard to accept that there may come a time when they can no longer make sound decisions. And while you don’t want to limit their independence too early, you also don’t want to wait until it’s too late.
The signs your parent may need a guardian
A guardian is an individual or entity appointed by the court to make decisions on behalf of another person when they can no longer make decisions for themselves. This arrangement is typically put in place when an individual is deemed incapacitated due to a cognitive decline or other health issue.
There are usually signs that your elderly parent may need support in managing their affairs, such as:
- Memory loss
- Confusion
- Unpaid bills
- Unusual spending patterns
- Living in unsafe conditions
- Forgetting to take medications
- Neglecting personal hygiene
The elderly are often at risk of exploitation by unscrupulous individuals. These people take advantage of an older person’s vulnerability to rob them of their assets and dignity.
Before gaining guardianship, having an open and honest conversation with your parents about their needs and wishes is crucial. It is often a difficult and uncomfortable discussion, but it will help guide the decision-making process.
Guardianship is basically taking away someone’s rights, so it is usually only considered a last resort. There may be less restrictive alternatives, such as establishing powers of attorney or creating trusts.
You will want to discuss your situation with someone who can guide you through the requirements of seeking guardianship. They can help you navigate the complex process and ensure your parent’s best interests are upheld.