Who Supervises a Guardian?

In an earlier article, we discussed what a guardian is what the person does. As we said, a guardian is typically someone who watches over our children if we are unable to do so, or our spouse is unfit or unwilling to take on the responsibility. We have the power to appoint guardians to take care of and watch over our children, but they can also supervise our elderly family too. No matter the age, though, we’re left with the question of “Who supervises the ones supervising our loved ones?”

Thankfully, it is not a difficult question to answer. Once a guardian has been appointed, that person is then supervised by the court. The guardian must then get the go-ahead from the courts for any medical procedures that carry substantial risk to the life and well-being of their ward. They are also required to obtain court authorization for any changes in classification to the abode of their ward—something like a move from a private residence to a nursing home, and they must also give an annual report to the court on the matter of the ward’s health status.

A guardian of the property is also necessary to keep careful records of finances, file an initial inventory, and file any annual accountings with the court.

Even though a guardianship might be much less desirable to have than an advance directive or Powers of Attorney, it is sometimes the only viable option available to us in order to provide needed care that someone cannot provide for themselves and cannot make the necessary decisions regarding themselves or their property. While it may not be seem as glamourous a job, it is one that should be carried out with pride, if we have been selected to do so.

So rest assured that you no longer need to lose sleep over whether or not the ones watching over your loved ones are being watched over themselves.