Adult Guardianship Services

Sometimes, life changes in ways that make it hard for an older adult to manage important parts of daily living, like health decisions or finances. When that happens, and no family or friends are able to step in, our Adult Guardianship Program is here to provide support, advocacy, and peace of mind.

Through this program, certified professional guardians are appointed to ensure that essential decisions are made with dignity and care. Guardians look after the person’s well-being while honoring their history, values, and preferences in every choice.

What makes our program unique is the addition of Guardian Advocates. These specially trained volunteers bring a personal, compassionate presence by visiting clients, checking on care needs, and providing encouragement. They help ensure that each person is supported and that their daily life is as positive as possible. This personal touch sets our program apart and brings comfort to families who want to know their loved one is not alone.

Interested in becoming a Guardian Advocate? Contact us at volunteer@realservices.org to learn more about this meaningful volunteer opportunity.

This service is part of Indiana’s Volunteer Advocates for Seniors and Incapacitated Adults (VASIA) Network, created to improve quality of life for vulnerable older adults.

Who We Can Help

The Adult Guardianship Services Program may be right for a loved one who:

  • Is age 55 or older

  • Has been legally determined to be unable to make safe medical or financial decisions on their own

  • Has no family or friends able or willing to serve as guardian

  • Lives in St. Joseph, Elkhart, Marshall, or Kosciusko County

How the Process Works

Referrals are reviewed monthly by our Guardianship Advisory Council. To be considered, a referral form, physician’s statement, and recent medical history must be submitted by the Thursday before the 3rd Wednesday of the month. After review, REAL Services may petition the court to be appointed as guardian.

Want to Learn More or Make a Referral?

📞 Call: 574-284-2649
📧 Email: guardianship@realservices.org

Guardian Partner Program (Private Pay)

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The Guardian Partner Program gives attorneys, fiduciary entities, and other professional providers a trusted option when a senior can no longer make important medical or financial decisions and has no one else to serve in that role.

Through this program, REAL Services provides certified guardians who take the time to understand each client’s history, needs, and wishes. Decisions are made with care, always aiming to preserve dignity and quality of life. Just as importantly, our guardians provide reassurance and support, helping each person feel safe and respected.

This cooperative program is generally private pay and is designed to ease the responsibilities of professionals while ensuring seniors receive consistent, compassionate advocacy.

Who We Can Help

The Guardian Partner Program may be appropriate for individuals who:

  • Are age 60 or older

  • Have been legally determined to be unable to make medical or financial decisions

  • Do not have family or friends willing or available to serve as guardian

  • Live in St. Joseph, Elkhart, Marshall, or Kosciusko County

How to Make a Referral

To discuss a potential referral or begin the process, please contact us:
📞 Call: 574-284-2649
📧 Email: guardianship@realservices.org

Downloads

Instructions
When your forms are complete, please mail them to:

REAL Services, Inc.
Attn: Guardianship Program
P.O. Box 1835
South Bend, IN 46634

More information:
Phone: 574-284-2649
Email: guardianship@realservices.org
Remote Fax: 574- 966-1439