Most adults are responsible for their own actions and finances. They have to do whatever is necessary to meet their own needs and fulfill their personal obligations. Occasionally, people who are technically legal adults are in a position where they struggle to meet their own needs.
Health challenges can cause scenarios where people fail to pay their bills, fall victim to fraud or ignore other important matters. Concerned family members sometimes go to court seeking guardianship or legal control over a vulnerable adult. They may also request conservatorship or control over their financial resources.
Certain medical conditions have a strong association with guardianship and conservatorship requests. What types of health issues may leave people dependent on others for their basic needs?
1. Alzheimer’s disease
People may have a genetic predisposition to develop Alzheimer’s disease. They can also increase their risk through exposure to certain compounds, such as arsenic. Older adults diagnosed with Alzheimer’s disease often experience rapid cognitive decline.
They may not be able to make choices in their best interests. They may struggle to manage their own affairs or handle financial matters. While people may be healthy initially after an Alzheimer’s disease diagnosis, their loved ones may need to take action sooner rather than later to protect them from hardship.
2. Dementia
Alzheimer’s disease is one of the medical conditions that produces dementia. Dementia involves a decline in cognitive function.
There are various types of dementia, such as Lewy body, vascular and frontotemporal dementia. Those who struggle to understand the world around themselves due to dementia may need the support of a guardian or conservator.
3. Severe mental health challenges
Sometimes, people with specific mental health conditions require support. Bipolar disorder, schizophrenia and other conditions that compromise rational behavior can put people in dangerous situations or lead to financial devastation. Those who have serious mental health issues that they cannot control with medication or therapy may eventually need the support of another adult to manage their affairs.
Going to court to seek a guardianship or conservatorship can be a difficult decision. Loved ones who worry about their family members may want to gather medical records and discuss the situation before taking any legal steps. Individuals with debilitating medical conditions may benefit from the intervention of other concerned adults.
