The Role of a Guardian
A guardian is someone who is legally appointed to make decisions on behalf of another individual who is unable to make those decisions themselves. This can include making decisions about healthcare, finances, and other important matters.
Types of Guardians
- Guardian of the Person: Responsible for making decisions about the individual’s daily care, health, and well-being.
- Guardian of the Estate: Handles the person’s financial affairs, including managing assets and paying bills.
Importance of a Guardian
Having a guardian can be crucial for individuals who are unable to make decisions for themselves due to age, illness, or disability. Guardians provide necessary support and advocacy to ensure the individual’s needs are met and their best interests are protected.
Case Study: Emily’s Story
Emily was a young woman with a developmental disability who needed assistance with day-to-day living tasks and managing her finances. Her sister was appointed as her guardian to help make decisions on her behalf and ensure she received the care she needed.
Guardian Statistics
According to the National Guardianship Association, there are over 1.5 million adults in the United States under guardianship, with the numbers steadily increasing due to the aging population and increased awareness of the need for guardianship services.
