One qualification you’re looking for when choosing a guardian for your child is that the person is willing to take on that role and already has a loving relationship with your child. This often makes grandparents feel like the ideal choice. They enjoy spending time with their grandchild, they’re committed to the child’s well-being, and they clearly have experience as parents because they already raised you.
In some cases, grandparents can be an excellent choice for a guardian. However, it is important to consider their health and age, so grandparents may not always be the ideal pick. You have to weigh these factors based on your unique situation.
Why are these details important?
Age and health are important because becoming a child’s guardian is a long-term commitment. Say that you have a child, name your parents as the guardians and then pass away relatively soon. They would then be responsible for raising your child for up to 18 years.
At the time you choose them, your parents could be in their 50s and in relatively good health. But will that still be true 18 years later, when they are in their 70s? You need to consider possible limitations, such as the onset of conditions like Alzheimer’s or dementia, or whether age itself might make it difficult for them to care for the child as needed.
Again, this doesn’t mean you shouldn’t choose grandparents—but it does mean you need to think carefully about the decision. One option could be to name a backup guardian who can step in if necessary. Either way, take time to carefully consider all of your legal options when making this decision.