Who is exempt from being classified as a "guardian" of an elderly person?

A guardian ad litem is specifically appointed by the court to represent the best interests of an elderly person in legal matters, rather than to serve as a guardian in a broader sense. This role is distinct from that of a guardian, whose responsibilities typically include making personal and financial decisions for the elderly individual. The guardian ad litem's scope of authority is limited to the specific case at hand, meaning they do not take on the ongoing responsibilities that a guardian would.

In the context of the question, the other roles mentioned do not share this same limitation or specificity in their legal responsibilities. A licensed therapist, a family member, or a certified social worker may take on roles that involve ongoing care or decision-making, which would classify them as guardians under some interpretations or circumstances. Therefore, their responsibilities can overlap with the duties of a guardian, barring them from the same exempt status as a guardian ad litem.