When handling the personal belongings of a conservatee, what is the recommended first step?

When managing the personal belongings of a conservatee, the recommended first step is to collect and hold the items until a disposition plan is determined. This approach ensures that all belongings are carefully accounted for and assessed before any decisions are made regarding their future. It provides a secure way to manage the conservatee’s possessions while respecting their rights and needs.

Collecting and holding the items allows for an inventory to be taken, which is crucial for understanding what the conservatee owned and what may have sentimental or practical value. It also gives time to determine the best course of action, whether that involves returning certain items to family members, donating them, selling them, or safely storing them. This method helps prevent impulsive decisions that could lead to the loss of important items or create conflicts with family members or other stakeholders.

Taking this systematic approach reflects a careful and respectful handling of the belongings, emphasizing the fiduciary duty to preserve the dignity of the conservatee while managing their estate responsibly.