Few things are harder than watching your parents struggle to participate in day-to-day activities. May adults who find themselves in this situation wonder when it’s the right time to step in and help their parents, especially when their parents wish to stay independent as long as possible.
Since life expectancy has increased, more aging parents need help in their golden years. As a responsible and loving adult child, you can only leave your parents to their own devices for so long. At a certain point, you may have to step in and set up your parents’ conservatorship. How will you know it’s time?
Cognitive decline
As your parents age, their cognitive functions may begin to wane. When your parents start to exhibit forgetfulness, confusion or difficulty in making decisions, you might want to start making arrangements to prepare for a conservatorship.
Financial challenges
A sudden decline in financial awareness is another red flag that should not be ignored. Unpaid bills, suspicious transactions or mounting debts could be signs that your parents are struggling to manage their finances effectively. A conservatorship can provide a structured and legal framework to help ensure that their financial affairs are managed responsibly.
Neglect of personal care
When aging parents begin neglecting their personal care, it raises concerns about their ability to live independently. Observing signs such as poor hygiene, unkempt living spaces or missed medical appointments may indicate the need for a conservatorship to guarantee their health and safety.
Isolation and loneliness
Social isolation can have detrimental effects on the mental and emotional well-being of elderly individuals. Suppose your parents are withdrawing from social activities, experiencing loneliness or showing signs of depression. In that case, it might be time to consider a conservatorship that includes provisions for their social and emotional needs.
Recognizing the signs that it’s time to act and taking proactive steps towards establishing a conservatorship for your aging parents is a responsible and compassionate decision. If you don’t know how to go about setting up a conservatorship, don’t hesitate to seek legal counsel.