Definition of Need   |  Client Profile

     In order to be eligible for the guardianship program, a client must be a resident of Tarrant County, Texas, adjudicated by a Tarrant County Probate Court to be in need of a guardian, and have no one appropriate or available to serve. Several clients have been served by the program for over 17 years. Unfortunately, some clients receive service for only a short time, because there has been considerable degeneration in health before they are referred to the program. Usually a volunteer continues to serve as guardian until the client's death. In rare cases, the client may be restored to competency or a family member may be found to become successor guardian.

     In order for a guardian to be appointed for an individual, that person must be declared legally incapacitated by one of the two Tarrant County Probate Judges. The court makes a determination that the individual's extreme memory problem or delusions or disorientation is interfering with ability to obtain food, clothing, and shelter. The Judge then appoints a guardian who has the duty, responsibility, and authority to "stand in the shoes" of the incapacitated person and make decisions for him or her.

     GSI acts as guardian only for those individuals for whom no family member, friend or other suitable person can be found to serve in that capacity. Sometimes an individual can outlive all close friends or relatives. In some cases a neighbor or family member is the one who is perpetrating the mistreatment and, therefore, is unsuitable to serve as guardian. Often, there are family members, but they also have health problems, live out of town, or have too many other family obligations. In cases where there is a history of family dysfunction, expecting a family member to serve adequately as caregiver is unrealistic. If the client has family, GSI is not appointed unless family members agree to sign waivers or are disqualified through the court process.

     For the incapacitated persons GSI serves, the appointment of a guardian is the only way to ensure a healthy and safe quality of life. In assigning volunteers to guardianship clients, priority is given to those cases in which health and safety are factors. In cases that present risks to a volunteer serving as a guardian or when there is an immediate need, staff members are assigned to stabilize the situation.