While responding to a question from a reader, I realized that living alone and free for some might be wonderful, yet for others, what happens if you are in a situation like this?
You are in your “golden years” have dementia, no family, little money, rent a home, and don’t own anything to speak of. You never got around to making a will and have not paid your rent in months.
A call made to Senior Protective Services by a well-meaning neighbor was turned over to the public guardian’s office to see if they can care for her.
The guardian’s office sends an investigator over to meet and assess your ability to care for yourself. And once the investigator’s report is complete, you are, without warning, moved into a group home “for your own good!”
Since your care is to be paid by the state, your public guardian now has you signed, sealed and delivered.
The public guardian’s office now takes control of everything you have. Even though you may not have much in the way of possessions, remember, you have been receiving your Social Security.
Such payment now goes to the guardian and the State now controls everything, including your mail, personal items, and where you will live. So, what can be done before you run into a situation like this?
My suggestion, while you are still in control of your faculties, is to find a lawyer to draw up these things. If you cannot afford one you can contact Legal Aid of Southern Nevada.
At the very least, make a list of where you want anything you do own to go. For example, family, a charity, or friend. Also, if you wish for cremation, what you want done with your remains.
If you happen to own your home, please make sure to have the property in a trust and name someone to be your executor should you not be able to make decisions at a later date. If your property is in a trust, it does not go to probate.
The moral of this story; find a friend if you have no family who, in your time of need, can assist.
Be sure to write down what you have, and what should be done with them, then place a copy with your friend, family, lawyer, bank, or attorney.
