A conservatorship is a legal arrangement where a court appoints a responsible person or organization (the conservator) to care for another adult who is unable to care for themselves or manage their own finances due to physical or mental limitations.

You should consider alternatives to conservatorship when the individual is capable of making decisions with support or assistance, when there are concerns about the conservator’s ability to act in the individual’s best interests, or when the individual expresses a desire for more autonomy and independence.

Some alternatives to conservatorship include supported decision-making agreements, powers of attorney, advance directives, representative payeeships, and trust arrangements. These alternatives allow individuals to retain more control over their decisions and affairs while still receiving necessary support.

To seek alternatives to conservatorship, individuals can consult with an attorney specializing in elder law or disability rights to explore available options. It is important to assess the individual’s specific needs and preferences to determine the most suitable alternative for their situation.