Adult Guardianship and Alternatives

When is a guardian appointed?

In Maine, a guardian for an adult may be appointed by a Probate Court for an adult who is unable to receive and evaluate information or make or communicate informed decisions to such an extent that the individual lacks the ability to meet essential requirements for physical health, safety, or self-care.

Before a guardian may be appointed, the court must determine that there are no less restrictive alternatives, such as:

Office of Aging and Disability Services

The Office of Aging and Disability Services (OADS) supports Maine's older and disabled adults by providing Adult Protective, Brain Injury, Other Related Conditions, Intellectual and Developmental Disability, Long Term Care, and Aging and Community services to the people of Maine.

OADS coordinates the programs and benefits to assure they operate consistent with the state and federal policies and the Maine Department of Health and Human Services' goals.

Get Support

For older adults, individuals with disabilities, family members, and care partners - you are not alone.  There are tools and services that can support you to live as independently as possible, both inside and outside of your home.

Learn more about how the Maine Office of Aging and Disability Services, and our partners, can support you:

About Us

Our Mission

The DHHS Office of Aging and Disability Services promotes the highest level of independence, health, and safety for older adults and adults with disabilities throughout Maine.

Public Health Nursing Updates

Sep 9, 2019

The Public Health Nursing Program played a significant role in supporting the health needs of asylum seekers who were temporarily housed at The Expo in Portland from June through August 2019. Soon after families and individuals seeking asylum began arriving at The Expo, public health nurses responded and provided services for nine consecutive days, from June 13 through June 21.

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