Choosing Nonmedical Caregiver Support: A Planning Guide for Conservators
For conservators and professional fiduciaries · Lira TL Care Agency · October 26, 2026
A caregiver introduction is only one part of planning support for an adult under conservatorship. Begin with the person’s wishes, the authority granted in the appointment, and the practical details of the proposed arrangement.
At a glance
Review the authority granted by the appointment with qualified guidance.
Record the person’s routines and preferences.
Request screening information and written financial terms.
Clarify who may approve changes and when to review the arrangement.
Confirm authority before making commitments
California Courts distinguishes conservatorship of the person from conservatorship of the estate. Duties and powers depend on the appointment. Review the governing documents and obtain qualified legal guidance when authority to engage services, approve spending, or share information is unclear. This article does not interpret a court order.
Describe the person rather than only the diagnosis
Prepare a brief outline of preferred routines, communication style, meaningful activities, household setting, and requested nonmedical assistance. Include the person in decisions to the extent appropriate. Ask what would help them feel comfortable meeting someone new, and how they would like their preferences communicated.
Review fit and evidence separately
Ask about relevant hands-on experience, dementia-specific training when applicable, references, and the screening records available for review. Then discuss the actual tasks, schedule, and communication expectations. A checklist alone cannot tell you whether a particular person and arrangement will be suitable.
Get the proposed financial terms in writing
Request an itemized explanation of caregiver compensation, referral fees, other charges, minimum hours if any, payment arrangements, and cancellation terms. Establish who may authorize changes. Keep the agreement and the basis for decisions with the records appropriate to your role. Refer questions about accounting obligations to counsel or the court’s guidance.
Plan for a change before one occurs
Ask what happens if the caregiver becomes unavailable, the person declines the arrangement, or needs change. Identify who can discuss another referral and whether additional fees apply. Do not assume an immediate replacement or a particular start date is guaranteed. Clinical concerns require the person’s healthcare team.
Questions to bring to the conversation
What has been confirmed, and what is still a request?
Who makes the next decision, and what information do they need?
Who should be contacted if the proposed arrangement changes?
A useful next step
A useful intake outline names the authorized contact, the person’s preferences, requested tasks, schedule, budget questions, and the next review point.
Further guidance: California Courts: Introduction to being a conservator.
Talk with your local Lira office
For nonmedical caregiver referral questions, call South Bay: (310) 406-7679 or Glendale: (818) 242-9147. Explore our professional referral guide, South Bay dementia support, or main-office dementia support.
General planning information, not individualized medical or legal advice. Follow applicable organizational procedures and seek qualified professional guidance for specific decisions. Lira TL Care Agency is a referral agency for nonmedical assistance. Availability, suitability, fees, and terms must be discussed before an arrangement begins.