What is a Guardian?
A guardian is appointed by the court to act on behalf of a person who has been deemed incapable of managing their personal affairs and/or property. Guardians are there to preserve the dignity of those with disabilities and to protect them from abuse, neglect and exploitation. There are least restrictive alternatives to guardianship. Such as designating a Power of Attorney, Durable Power of Attorney and/or Health Care Surrogate.
There are different types of Guardianships.
Some examples are....
Volunteer Guardian: Although the person may be competent, they are unable to care and manage their finances and estate because of their age or physical infirmity. As a result they voluntarily petition the court for the appointment of a guardian to assist him or her manage their finances.
Another option is for the person to select a Power of Attorney. In these cases, the person should always keep in mind that the Power of Attorney has the authority to make all financial decisions but are not required by law to show evidence of their transactions. There are no regulatory requirements for the POA to follow. In many cases, Power of Attorneys have been found to mis appropriate the persons funds. With a Volunteer Guardian, the Guardian must report all financial transactions to the courts. This works as a safe guard.
Pre-Need Guardian: A person may choose to declare a specific person to be their guardian in the event that they should become incapacitated. A declaration must be filed with the court prior to the person's incapacity.
Limited Guardian: A limited guardian is appointed by the courts to exercise the legal rights and powers on behalf of the person (ward). These rights are specifically designated by the court. This is used when the person lacks the capacity to do some things, but is still capable of remaining independent in some matters. For example; a person may be unable to manage their financial affairs but still has the capacity to make medical decisions for themselves.
Plenary Guardian: Once the courts have declared a person incapacitated and that he or she lacks the ability to perform the tasks necessary to care for his or her person and property, a plenary guardian is appointed. Plenary guardians are responsible for acting in all aspects on behalf of the person (ward).
Guardians, unlike Power of Attorneys or Health Care Surrogates, are obligated to submit reports to the courts. Therefore, their actions are monitored.
What do Care Managers Do?
Care Managers provide a variety of services for seniors and those who are disabled. Upon the completion of a home assessment and interview, a plan of care is determined. The Care Manager will then arrange any services the client may need.
Understandably, most seniors prefer to stay in the familiar comfort of their own homes. This option is easier than you may think. We can arrange for personalized services to be provided right at home.
A Devoted Heart can assist in coordinating the following services:
- Home Health Services
- In-home or outpatient Physical and Occupational Therapies
- Medication reminders
- Routine personal care
- Hygiene assistance
- Laundry
- Cleaning
- Shopping
- Meal planning and cooking
- Arranging appointments with physicians or specialists
- Transporation to doctor appointments and errands
Other services may include:
- Acting as Representative Payee
- Financial Management & Bill Payment
- Assistance with placement in Nursing Homes, Assisted Living Facilities and Retirement Communities
- Assistance with the Medicaid process and other governmental services
- Assistance in reviewing and selecting appropriate insurances including prescription drug plans
- Service as a liaison for out of town family members to keep them updated as to the condition of their loved one
For more information, please call 407-402-9474 or click
here.
