What happens to an elderly person with dementia where the family doesn't want to care for them anymore and there isn't anyone left to care for that person? Will the state do anything for that person?
Expert Answer by Barbara Kate Repa
Barbara Repa, a Caring.com senior editor, is an attorney, a journalist specializing in aging issues, and the author of WillMaker, software enabling consumers to write their own wills, health care directives, powers of attorney, and final arrangements.
In the sad situation you describe, a court--usually the local probate court--will appoint someone to act as a legal guardian or conservator, and that person will become responsible for the elderly person's care.
Your first best stop for information on this would be the local probate court. Courts in some locales have established some very good self-help centers that provide good free information and even the necessary forms and instructions to get the process started. Find it by doing a search of your city or county and the words "conservatorship" or "guardianship."
