Start With the Present Need
Separate Planning Questions From an Immediate Crisis
A useful first step is to identify whether the older adult can participate in voluntary planning, whether signed documents already exist, and whether a healthcare, housing, financial, or court deadline is driving the conversation.
That distinction shapes which documents to review and whether the matter belongs in planning, probate, guardianship, conservatorship, or another process.
- Existing estate and healthcare documents
- The older adult's current goals and ability to participate
- Immediate notices, deadlines, or safety concerns
- The people already helping with care or finances
