Responsibility for grandparent

[TotallyConfused]

What is the name of your state? OH

My father passed away this week. He was married and he has a minor child from this marriage. I do not have any information about wishes as far as a will or insurance etc.

My father was managing my grandfather’s affairs who was recently diagnosed with Alzheimer's (one week before my father died). My grandfather’s only living relatives are me, my minor brother, a nephew and niece and a minor grandchild. My grandfather is currently living alone.

I want to know who is legally responsible for my grandfather? I do not know if my father had a formal power of attorney for my grandfather. Since my father was handling his financial affairs does this responsibility transfer to my stepmother or to me because I am the elder nearest relative? I am concerned because he is living alone.

Thank you.

(edited to include my grandfather is living alone)

 

[ellencee]

A diagnosis of Alzheimer's disease does not automatically mean that the person can not establish a power of attorney. I suggest that you speak with your grandfather and ask him to meet with an attorney and create a new power of attorney to manage his business affairs and to serve as the person who will make medical/healthcare decisions on his behalf.

It is possible that your father had POA for your grandfather and that a second POA was named as alternate. (I doubt this was a written POA; more likely it was an agreement between your father and your grandfather.) Surely, if an alternate POA exists, that person would have stepped forward and either assumed the duties or asked to be relieved of the duties.

Forms are available on-line through many state's general statutes or codes of law. Detailed instructions are also provided. However, in your grandfather's situation, his having Alzheimer's disease, I suggest hiring an attorney to prepare the document(s).

Best wishes,
EC

 

[TotallyConfused]

Thank you very much for your response. I will talk to him about his wishes. I suspected he had Alzheimer's a year ago and just got my father to get him tested. I suppose I am over-worrying. I am concerned about him living alone.

Thank you again for your response. I truly appreciate it.

 

[ellencee]

You're welcome.
I don't think you are over-worrying, either. Your grandfather's condition makes him a potential danger to himself. Alzheimer's sufferers frequently cause fires in their homes because they forget they turned on the oven or the range units or left something cooking. I hope you or another family member will be able to care for your grandfather as long as it is feasible to keep him at home.

Best wishes,
EC