At a meeting hosted by Developmental Services Ontario (DSO), parents expressed concerns over their children’s ability to make decisions. As a parent, my default reaction is to make decisions for my daughter, especially if the issue is significant. Our ability to make decisions for them is challenged when they reach the age of majority. Legally they are presumed to be capable of making decisions. Parents will often seek to have themselves appointed as guardians.

Read more: Power of Attorney for Individuals with Mental Disabilities – an Alternative to Guardianship

I spoke at an event hosted by the Developmental Service Ontario (DSO) of Central West region for parents with a dependent child or adult. It was well attended with many questions at the end of the presentations. One theme was the issue of guardianship. In speaking with parents and drawing on my experiences, there is much confusion regarding guardianship. In this and the next few blog posts, I want to concentrate on the issue of guardianship.

Read more: Does my child need a Guardian?