Adult guardianship can be a controversial topic. Most adults do not want to give up their independence. However, they may require outside support for their safety and financial stability. The law does allow concerned individuals including family members and caregiving professionals to seek adult guardianship in certain circumstances.
The process involves going to court to establish that an adult is vulnerable because of their current health issues. Families sometimes wait so long to act that caregivers may pursue guardianship before they do. The following are some of the warning signs that guardianship may be necessary for a vulnerable adult.
A worrisome diagnosis
Sometimes, medical professionals provide advanced warning of future challenges. If a doctor diagnoses an older adult with Alzheimer’s disease or dementia, they likely require support for their own well-being. Family members concerned about the implications of a recent diagnosis may need to start gathering evidence of how a loved one’s medical condition affects their day today life.
Declining physical and social health
Older adults are often very anxious about the idea of a dire diagnosis. They may actively try to avoid alerting medical professionals to their condition by canceling medical appointments and avoiding medical attention. This can lead to unaddressed physical health challenges that get worse over time.
Occasionally, people may even begin withdrawing from their social relationships. They may avoid seeing family members and their close friends because they know those people can identify worrying signs of cognitive decline. When someone withdraws from social relationships or has untreated physical health concerns, that can be an indication that they may require the support of a guardianship.
Challenging financial circumstances
Guardianship often occurs because people become incapable of properly managing their own affairs. For example, they may fall behind on their rent or mortgage. They may be unable to afford groceries because they don’t manage their budgets appropriately. Family members may discover red warning letters from a mortgage company or unpaid utility bills indicating that a loved one can no longer manage their own resources properly.
Acting promptly to protect a loved one by pursuing guardianship can help to ensure that they remain healthy and safe for as long as possible. Seeking legal guidance is a good way to get started.