Shining Light on Guardianship, Alternatives

Figuring out the best way to make critical medical and financial choices for an ailing loved one can be daunting.

Is it wise to become the person’s legal guardian? Are there other options that allow people to retain the right to make decisions about their own care?

A recorded live webinar and telephone town hall address those questions and others to help older adults and caregivers make informed decisions. AARP Ohio hosted the events with a guest speaker from the nonprofit Pro Seniors Inc., which provides free legal representation, education and advice to older adults.

Both recordings cover what guardianship is, how it’s created, and the powers and duties of guardians. Guardians may choose where individuals live, how their money is spent, and what health care providers they use.

The sessions also include information on less intrusive alternatives to guardianship, such as health care and financial powers of attorney. Audience questions were answered by the Pro Seniors Inc. attorney.


—Janice Brewster Weiser

This article was edited to include event recordings from the town hall on Oct. 23, 2023 and the webinar on Nov. 6, 2023.

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