What is a common ethical dilemma that guardians may encounter?

A common ethical dilemma that guardians may encounter involves the conflict between the guardian's and the ward's wishes. This situation arises when a guardian must balance their duty to act in the best interests of the ward, who may have diminished capacity or judgment, against the ward’s expressed preferences or desires.

This dilemma can be particularly challenging because it often requires guardians to make tough decisions about autonomy and independence versus safety and well-being. For instance, a ward might wish to engage in a risky behavior or refuse necessary medical treatment, while the guardian believes that complying with these wishes could lead to harm. Navigating such conflicts requires not only a solid understanding of legal and ethical obligations but also sensitivity to the ward’s rights and values, ultimately highlighting the complex nature of a guardian's role in advocate and protector.

Other options like managing financial assets, finding suitable housing, and deciding on leisure activities are tasks that guardians regularly handle, but they do not typically represent the same level of ethical tension as conflicts between the guardian's judgment and the ward's desires.