As someone who cares deeply about their aging loved one, you’ve probably found yourself at this blog post because you’re wondering when it’s time to consider seeking guardianship of them. This can be a difficult question to answer, as each circumstance is unique, and it’s a big decision that you shouldn’t take lightly. After all, if you become your loved one’s guardian, then you’ll be responsible for nearly every aspect of their life.
When is it time to consider seeking guardianship?
There are several signs that it may be time to take legal action. This includes when the following issues are identified:
- Your loved one struggles to manage their finances, which may be evidenced by failure to pay bills and an inability to afford the things they once enjoyed.
- Loss of memory, which could be so significant that they forget the people closest to them, or it could be a little harder to notice, like frequently forgetting to take their medication.
- The onset of serious mental health issues, like Alzheimer’s or deep depression that affects their ability to live their day-to-day life.
- Changes to their physical health, such as loss of weight and loss of mobility, which can be indicative of your loved one’s inability to manage themselves and their household.
- Despite signs of an inability to care for themselves, your loved one refuses to create a power of attorney or healthcare directive.
- Their overall decision-making is questionable.
- Your loved one refuses the long-term care that they need.
Take the action necessary to protect your loved one
Taking freedom away from your loved one can be hard to do. But under the circumstances, it may be necessary to keep them physically, emotionally, mentally, and financially safe.