Sometimes, older adults move into a nursing home or a similar facility while still capable of managing their own affairs, only to have their health decline during their residency. Individuals struggling with cognitive consequences related to aging may misuse their financial resources or fail to pay what they should for the care that they receive. They could also make choices, like declining medical treatments, that are not in their own best interests.
There may not be anyone willing to step up and manage their personal and financial affairs — especially when an older adult does not have family members actively involved in their daily life. A facility could potentially pursue guardianship as a means of helping a vulnerable resident pay their bills and otherwise maintain a safe and comfortable lifestyle in their golden years.
How do you decide when it may be time to pursue a guardianship to protect a resident who can no longer manage their own affairs?
When they have fallen significantly behind on their obligations
Missing a single payment is a warning sign that someone may need more support, but it likely isn’t a justification to seek guardianship over them. However, if they miss multiple payments or if they reveal that they have mismanaged their resources, that could be a sign that a facility needs to intervene.
When a resident makes unsafe choices
Sometimes, older adults make decisions that put them at unnecessary risk. They may not only fail to pay their bills but might also start canceling medical appointments either to save money or to avoid having a doctor diagnosing them with a significant condition.
Recognizing when it may be time to speak up could actually help you protect a vulnerable resident in need of the support of a professional guardian.