Alternatives to Guardianship

WE DO NOT RECOMMEND GUARDIANSHIP UNLESS YOUR LOVED ONE IS REFUSING CARE OR THEY ARE UNABLE TO ASK YOU FOR YOUR HELP AND THEY'RE MAKING POOR DECISIONS. INSTEAD FOCUS ON THE ALTERNATIVES LISTED BELOW AND ALLOW YOUR LOVED ONE TO PRACTICE DECISION MAKING.

The downside of Guardianship

• Guardian should never be your first choice. It should be your last resort as it's very difficult to undo later. The reason is that your loved one will lose most decision making rights. For example even marriage must be approved by the court.
• Decision making is a learned skill. The lack of opportunity to make decisions will result in your loved one never being able to learn the skill. 
• When parents pass away during a guardianship, the loved one will be appointed a new guardian by the court. 

Financial Alternatives to Guardianship

• Become a Social Security "Representative Payee"
• Put your loved ones money in a trust
• Parents should be a financial power of attorney if your loved one has significant assets
• Use direct deposits for incoming payments to your loved one.
• Make sure your loved ones bank account is a joint account with you.
• Make direct payment to providers of a service.
• Perhaps create a Ohio Financial Power of Attorney

Healthcare Alternatives to Guardianship

• Create a Healthcare Power of Attorney
• Some forms will allow you to be "Chosen Representative"
  
• In Ohio look at the Ohio Disability Rights website for supported decision making resource.