If your strongly held personal beliefs will cause you to not act in the best interests of the IP, you should contact the court for guidance and, if necessary, to be removed as guardian. Nothing should keep you from acting in the best interests of the IP as their guardian.xxix
The IP should share their preferences and participate in the decision-making process about where they will live to the extent possible. When making a decision about where the IP will live, it is your duty to find the least restrictive environment that will meet their needs. For example, this means the IP should not be placed in a nursing home if it is possible for them to continue living independently with assistance from services like house cleaning, meal preparation, and personal care support in their home.xxx Issues to consider when making a decision about housing include:
IP's assets and income (work with guardian of estate to assess)
IP's basic needs and safety
Care and services needed
Availability of needed services
Availability of transportation for appointments, etc.
Level of socialization and access to friends, family, and community
What is needed to maintain their residencexxxi
While there is no specific requirement for number or frequency of visits with the IP, you are encouraged to visit at least once a month. There are certain events that may require additional visits, including when you need to make medical decisions or observe new behaviors or concerns identified by service providers.
By visiting the IP frequently, you will get to know what their health, mood, and behavior is usually like. This will allow you to identify any changes in these areas that may be cause for concern. Spending time with the IP will also allow you to better understand their needs and desires so you can make the best decision possible on their behalf. Additionally, you will need to communicate with service providers frequently and make note of any signs of possible neglect or abuse during your visits with the IP and in your communication with service providers. More information on elder abuse can be found in Elder Abuse Identification and Responses.