What is the role of a Guardian in the context of resident care?

The role of a Guardian in the context of resident care is to act on behalf of the resident as legally appointed. This means the Guardian has the authority and responsibility to make decisions for the resident when they are unable to do so themselves. This can include both medical and personal decisions, ensuring that the resident's best interests are represented and their rights are upheld.

Guardians are typically appointed by a court and may have responsibilities that extend beyond just medical decisions, encompassing various aspects of the resident's life. This legal empowerment is crucial, especially for residents who may be incapacitated or vulnerable, as it provides them with a designated representative who can advocate for their needs and preferences in multiple areas, including healthcare, financial matters, and daily activities.

The other roles described, such as managing only medical decisions or overseeing all aspects of residency, do not fully capture the breadth of a Guardian’s responsibilities, which are not limited to those specific areas. Similarly, assisting with daily living tasks, while important, is generally not the primary function of a Guardian, as this role focuses more on legal representation and advocacy.