How do you determine a person may need a guardian?

The need for guardianship focuses on the person's ability (or inability) to make informed decisions, and individual needs/situation. Medical care, finances, living arrangements, nutrition, personal hygiene, and coordination of professional services are all areas in which decisional capacity may be assessed. Guardianship is a serious step that should be considered only when less restrictive alternatives have proven to be ineffective. Assessments should be done by qualified professionals, and may vary depending on the needs of the individual and the level of protection being considered.