We extend a heartfelt thank you for your incredible commitment to making a positive impact in the lives of vulnerable adults. Your dedication and compassion are truly remarkable! As you embark on this fulfilling journey, we want to provide you with a glimpse of what lies ahead. Below, we have outlined the essential steps of guardianship, offering you an insight into the transformative process that awaits you. Get ready to embark on a remarkable adventure of service, growth, and making a lasting difference. Together, we can create a brighter future for those in need. Let's review the steps:
1. Be appointed
AGS staff will discuss with you the specifics regarding a referral for guardianship to our agency. You will be able to review case files and background information. If you accept, AGS will ask Probate Court to schedule an Appointment Hearing. Once a date for the hearing is set, you are required to meet with the prospective ward once during the week leading up to the hearing. At the virtual hearing, you will report on this meeting, accept the appointment and take the oath. You will then be sent three copies of the Letter of Guardianship.
2. Get started
Start visiting your client. Introduce yourself to nurses, aides, therapists, housekeeping and food service staff and the business office, get an update on your client, and deliver a Letter of Guardianship and business card to the facility or residence. Schedule the first Quarterly Plan of Care Conference with your client's care team. Document your visits and conferences on log sheets provided by AGS.
3. Conduct Monthly Visits
Conduct monthly visits with your client, checking in with staff when your are there. Assess your client’s overall condition, noting any changes. Get to know your client, filling in information gaps where possible. Are there services they need that are available through our community partners? Is the client participating in activities? Talk with them about their end of life wishes for pre-need funeral planning. Analyze spending habits. Does the client need anything ie clothing, reading materials, activities? Document visits, keeping track of ongoing issues.
4. Attend Quarterly Care Conferences
Schedule and participate in Quarterly Plan of Care Conferences. Discuss any changes in the condition of your client, any behavioral changes, and any ancillary services provided or the need for more. Discuss challenges and successes. Try to schedule a conference in the month before the Annual Report is due. Document these conferences on forms provided by AGS.
5. File your Annual Report
The Guardian’s Annual Report is due on the anniversary of your date of appointment. This report includes the Guardian’s Annual Report, the Annual Plan and the Statement of Expert Evaluation. The document for the Statement of Expert Evaluation should be submitted to the social worker 60 days before due date. Follow up until you have the original copy. Mail the complete report with Statement of Expert Evaluation to AGS. AGS will deliver to the court.
6. Access training and resources
AGS will provide many opportunities for training in order to satisfy the annual 3 credit hour training requirement. You are to avail yourself of these opportunities as they apply. Confirming completion of the 3 hours is due in your Guardian’s Annual Report. When you receive a certificate for training from outside AGS, submit a copy to the Volunteer Coordinator.
The staff of Adult Guardianship Services is here to support you in our role. Please contact us if you have a question about your role and responsibilities or if you have a concern about the care your client is receiving. We are here to help!