North Carolina families support each other. Our state is full of loving, caring, and supportive individuals who have grown because of their families and give back to their families with a communal mindset. But, what is unfortunate is that our aging loved ones are often neglected in times of need. Too often, older family members are left out of planning conversations, even if they are cared for in the home.
Our bodies, our minds, and our needs evolve as we grow older. You wouldn’t want your family to leave you behind, so we should never neglect the care and support of the ones we love, regardless of age. Guardianship provides a path to empowering our aging loved ones by supporting them and making crucial decisions on their behalf when they’re unable to do so themselves.
What is Guardianship?
In North Carolina, adult guardianship is a legal process through which a court appoints a guardian to make decisions on behalf of an incapacitated adult (ward) who is unable to manage their own affairs. These are delicate situations that require careful consideration and compassion to help you and your loved ones make the necessary arrangements.
Guardianship preserves dignity and respect while ensuring the necessary decisions are being made while the ward is unable to do so themselves. Working with a North Carolina attorney who handles guardianship designations brings peace of mind to otherwise concerning situations.
There are two main types of guardianship for incapacitated adults in North Carolina.
- Guardian of the Person: A guardian appointed to make decisions regarding the ward’s personal care, health, and living arrangements.
- Guardian of the Estate: A guardian appointed to manage the ward’s financial affairs, assets, and property.
How Do You Know When Guardianship is Necessary?
It’s not easy to recognize when a loved one can no longer manage their own affairs—especially because we want to give our loved ones the space they need to remain independent and make decisions for themselves. Accepting this change can be emotional, but overlooking the signs could put their safety and well-being at risk.
Some of the signs that a loved one may need legal support through Guardianship include:
- Memory loss
- Failing to care for themselves
- Unusual and swift changes in behavior and mood
- “Wandering,” which is often a sign of severe cognitive decline
- Falling victim to common scams
- Withdrawing from family, friends, or favorite activities
- Letting their home or personal space fall into disrepair
- Showing aggression or becoming agitated easily
If you notice several of these signs, especially if they’ve appeared recently, it may be time to discuss guardianship for your loved one. Acting early can provide the protection and support they need while preserving their dignity.
Empower Your Family With Meridian Law Office
Establishing guardianship can be an emotional journey, but you don’t have to face it alone. The legal team at Meridian Law Office is here to guide you through the necessary steps, ensuring your loved one’s needs are met with compassion and professionalism. We understand the importance of protecting your family while empowering each member to live with dignity. Contact our Charlotte office today to discuss how we can help with guardianship and other related matters.
Meridian Law Office
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