My mother has severe dementia, how can I act on her behalf to make financial decisions?

If your mother has severe dementia and is unable to make decisions on her own, you may need to pursue legal avenues to act on her behalf in Florida. One common approach is to seek guardianship through the court. This involves petitioning the court to appoint you as her legal guardian, granting the authority to make personal and financial decisions on her behalf. The court will assess her capacity and determine whether guardianship is necessary, considering the best interests of your mother. Alternatively, if your mother executed a durable power of attorney while she had the capacity, and you were named as her agent, you may be able to manage her affairs within the scope defined in the power of attorney document. It’s crucial to consult with an attorney experienced in Florida’s guardianship and power of attorney laws to ensure you take the appropriate legal steps and act in accordance with your mother’s best interests.