Under NGA standards, what must the guardian prioritize when managing a person's estate?

The correct choice emphasizes the importance of a guardian recognizing and honoring the individual’s unique circumstances. Under the National Guardianship Association (NGA) standards, guardians are primarily responsible for acting in the best interest of the person they represent, which encompasses understanding and prioritizing their goals, needs, and preferences. This approach is rooted in the values of respect, dignity, and autonomy, advocating for the individual’s right to make choices about their own life.

Prioritizing the person’s goals and preferences ensures that the guardian's actions align with what the individual would desire for their estate management. It allows for a more personalized approach, where the guardian can take into account the specific desires and values of the person, thus enhancing their quality of life.

In contrast, focusing on the guardian's personal interests would lead to a conflict of interest, undermining the fiduciary duty the guardian holds. Prioritizing property maintenance above all else neglects the personal aspect of the individual’s needs, and only adhering to government regulations would fail to consider the individual’s specific desires or circumstances. Therefore, the priority clearly belongs to understanding and addressing the individual’s unique goals and needs.