In this issue, we reflect on the past, present, and future of guardianship: from Scott Harshbarger’s perspective on unfinished reform in Massachusetts to new legislative efforts, organizational partnerships, and the people making person-centered guardianship possible every day.
In this issue, we explore how person-centered practices, community partnerships, and thoughtful advocacy are shaping the future of guardianship across Massachusetts and beyond.
This issue explores the “decisions-only” model of guardianship, alongside real stories, current developments, and the ongoing effort to balance autonomy, protection, and care.
Structure shapes outcomes. This month we explore guardianship as a continuum of engagement, alongside national advancements, lived experiences, and advocacy efforts shaping the field.
Structure shapes outcomes. This month we explore how guardianship models affect stability, hospital capacity, and access to care.
2 While both “unbefriended” and “unrepresented” are commonly used to refer to the population of concern to the Institute, we use the latter in this Report, as being more technically correct and less distracting than the other, more emotive term. In using the term, we do not intend to imply anything about legal representation.
1 Moye, J., et al., Ethical Concerns and Procedure Pathways for Patients Who are Incapacitated and Alone, HEC Forum DOI 10.1007/s10730‐016‐9317‐9 (published online), p. 4 (Jan. 13, 2017.