Adulthood gives you the power to make independent decisions regarding your governance and financial affairs. However, what happens if you suffer a debilitating injury or when age begins to interfere with your rationale?
An adult guardianship allows you to give important decision-making power to someone you trust. This individual will act on your behalf and in your best interest, following the guidelines you have previously laid out.
Disability
An unexpected injury can happen because of several reasons, including a car accident, a workplace incident, violence, a fall and a severe illness. Because of your sudden inability to care for yourself or perhaps even understand the situation, you might require the constant care of people who love you.
Similarly, if you have a disabled dependent, you will want to coordinate caretaking strategies prior to your death. Establishing a guardian can provide peace of mind when you know that your dependent will continue to receive the necessary care and attention even if you are no longer able to.
Incompetence
As you age, you might experience conditions that interfere with your ability to comprehend and make decisions. According to Justice.gov, some of the tasks that a guardian could oversee on your behalf include the following:
- Voting
- Determining residence
- Managing property
- Owning a firearm
- Consenting to medical treatment
- Making end-of-life decisions
Having appointed a guardian can add to the protection of your well-being, as well as the protection of your assets and estate. With the right person lined up to do the job, you can have peace of mind regarding the welfare of things that matter most to you.