Ageing is inevitable. As old age kicks in, most people tend to lose the ability to care for themselves. If you are concerned about your ageing parent’s ability to care for themselves, you need to explore the available options.
One of the options you can consider if you have concerns about your parent’s diminishing abilities is establishing guardianship for them. In Texas, guardianship provides clear legal rights while ensuring that the appointed guardian will be able to act in the best interests of the ward. But how do you know it’s time to set up guardianship for your parent?
Here are two clear signs you need to set up guardianship for your ageing parent:
Your parent won’t sign a power of attorney document
Guardianship basically introduces a third party into your parent’s life. And this can be a little bit invasive. If your parent confers a durable power of attorney on you, you would have the legal right to make financial and healthcare decisions on their behalf.
If your parent cannot sign a power of attorney, however, then you may set up guardianship and petition the court to appoint a guardian for them. With a valid guardianship, you will have the legal tools to take care of your parent’s personal care.
Your parent’s health is deteriorating
Old age comes with its share of challenges, and one of these is failing health. If your parent is not taking their medication as they should, or if they are not getting proper nutrition, you may step in to help with these tasks. However, if their health begins to deteriorate, and they are adamant about moving to a nursing home, then you need to get specialised help for them. In this case, guardianship may be inevitable.
Protecting your loved one through their sunset year
Not many life experiences are as emotional as watching your parent lose their independence due to age-related complications. Learning more about Texas’ guardianship laws can help you safeguard your folk’s best interests when setting up guardianship for them.