Whether an individual or a professional, being appointed a Guardian, Healthcare Power of Attorney or a Power of Attorney is a large role to adopt for someone. There are many responsibilities associated with these designations, and we highly recommend you seek assistance and advice to protect yourself from liability. Caregiver Support Services is here to guide you and ensure you understand all of your responsibilities.
A Guardian or POA/HCPOA ensures the well-being of an individual, whether with health or financial matters. Guardianship occurs when a court appoints an individual to care for a person it deems can no longer care for themselves, and the Guardian must submit reports to the Clerk of Court on a regular basis. Signs that someone might be in need of a Guardian vary greatly, but they may include changes in personal care and appearance, the home-life not organized or maintained as it has been previously, dementia and/or declining cognitive abilities. A Guardian is expected to personally help or find the resources to assist with daily tasks such as administering and keeping track of taken medications, managing living conditions, preparing a budget, paying invoices, recording all income and expenses with annual reports to the clerk of court, and arranging for regular social interaction and recreational activities. This simplified list of responsibilities might seem overwhelming to a newly appointed Guardian, but in reality there is so much more to take into consideration when you become the sole decision-maker for someone else.
Maybe you have just received a POA/HCPOA or Guardian appointment or need help becoming or finding resources to assist, Caregiver Support Services can help you navigate these unknown waters. Call 435-2546 to discuss your new responsibilities or client needs and learn how we can help.