Anyone of 18 years or over who is of sound mind can make an enduring power of guardianship. If there is a family history, or other evidence of disorders or diseases that may predispose a person to a higher incidence of becoming mentally incapacitated such as some forms of dementia, severe mental illness or cerebral stroke, it is strongly recommended that an enduring power of guardianship be made.

The advantage of appointing an enduring guardian prior to developing a mental incapacity is that the person can decie who is to be his or her guardian and can decide in advance how the guardian is to make decisions.

Should a person become mentally incapacitated without having appointed an enduring guardian, informal arrangements may suffice. However, if the authority of a legally appointed guardian is required, an application must be made to the Guardianship Board.