Guardianship. When is it time?

It's Alzheimer's and Brain Awareness Month.

Every 65 seconds, someone in the U.S. is diagnosed with Alzheimer’s disease.

So what happens when you can no longer ignore the signs of dementia in a loved one—when they’re having trouble managing their finances or neglecting their personal hygiene?

When a concerned family member calls me, unsure whether guardianship is the right step, I usually start with a few key questions:

1. Does the person still have the mental capacity to sign a Power of Attorney and an Advance Directive for Healthcare? If so, this may be the better route— it is less invasive and avoids going through the court system.

2. What are you hoping to accomplish with guardianship? Often, it’s about protecting your loved one from financial harm or making sure they receive necessary medical care.

3. Are you aware of the costs and consequences? Guardianship is expensive, time-consuming, and often permanent. It also means the court will be involved in your family’s private matters.

4. Could this cause conflict within the family? Sometimes the person in question resists the idea, or other family members may disagree and legally contest the process.

A loved one’s ability to make decisions can decline because of age, illness, or injury. Guardianship is a serious and emotional step—don’t go it alone. Reach out to a trusted attorney to help you navigate the complexities with compassion and clarity.

For additional resources, visit: https://lnkd.in/gGgBQhY