Understanding What Conservatorship Los Angeles Means For Older Individuals

By Jessica Sanders


One of the things people fear the most as they grow older is the loss of their independence. Even those who are healthy and active may still become anxious at the thought of someone else taking control of their lives at some point. They may be willing to admit they don't always remember things as well as they used to or have as much energy as when they were younger. Circumstances can quickly change, however, for someone with a debilitating illness or loss of mental faculties. There may be a time when the type of conservatorship Los Angeles seniors have used becomes a necessity.

It is always preferable for arrangements to be made prior to any emergency. Unfortunately, sometimes a conservator has to decide what is in the best interest of the individual. Conservatorships may be limited or general. A general conservator has complete control over the decision making process for the senior citizen. In the case of limited conservatorships, this individual requires assistance in certain areas, but is able to make decisions for him or herself in other instances.

The conservator of an individual makes decisions in every part of that person's physical life. This may include where the senior citizen lives, what kind of medical attention he or she receives, and even what the person's diet consists of. A conservator of an estate is in charge of the elderly individual's financial situation. This person is responsible for making sure all expenses are paid and will determine how assets are be managed.

If the affected person has not made a preference for a custodian known, the courts can appoint one. Most courts prefer to appoint the closest relative possible because that person tends to know the individual best. Preferred conservators might include a spouse, a sibling, a grown child, or close friend.

Once the court has been petitioned to appoint a conservator, it will hand the matter over to an investigator. This person meets with the individual in question to make sure they understand how the conservatorship works. The investigator is required to report back to the judge in the case with a confidential analysis.

In the case of an emergency, the courts may decide to appoint a temporary guardian to take over the individual's care until a permanent custodian can be put in place. They are sometimes required in the event that a current guardian has been removed and a new one has not yet been approved. This temporary person's responsibility usually ends within sixty to ninety days.

The responsibilities of a general or estate conservator end upon the death of the person in their care. Occasionally an elderly individual can prove their situation has improved to an extent that a guardian is no longer necessary or only necessary for certain aspects of their life.

Hopefully you will live a long, healthy life and be able to make your own decisions. For those who are not so lucky making preparations in advance can make a huge difference.




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