Capacity Assessment FAQ

A capcity assessment is a multi-step process that provides a formal, objective, and independent assessment of an individual's ability to make decisions about personal and/or financial matters.

The assessment is comprised of the adult's ability to receive, assimilate, and integrate relevant information; evaluate and/or weigh benefits and risks; understand the implications of the decision; and subsequently carry out the decision. 

This entails conducting a semi-structured interview with the adult in an environment where they feel most at ease, typically either at their residence or in an office setting.

Throughout the interview, the individual's social and cultural background, living conditions, risk level, medical and psychological aspects, spiritual inclinations, physical state, and cognitive functioning are all factored in.

 Information is gathered based on adult self- reporting, administration of measuring tools, assessor tests, and observations by caregivers and support people. 

 According to Alberta legislation, mental capacity is presumed for all adults unless proven otherwise. The majority of adults can independently make decisions throughout their lives. Nevertheless, certain conditions have the potential to hinder an individual's decision-making capability, including:

• Cognitive and developmental disabilities
• Autism spectrum disorders
• Attention Deficit Hyperactivity Disorder (ADHD)
• Fetal Alcohol Spectrum Disorder (FASD)
• Dementia
• Brain injuries
• Psychiatric disorders

A capacity assessment is obligatory for applications related to Adult Guardianship and Trusteeship as outlined in the Alberta Adult Guardianship and Trusteeship Act.

When there's evidence suggesting a decline in an individual's ability to make decisions and this jeopardizes their safety, a capacity assessment might become necessary.For individuals with enduring developmental disorders who are reaching the age of 18, an assessment might be necessary to ascertain if they require an alternate decision maker.

A capcity assessment is also often required for:  

• Legal Decision-Making: Capacity assessments are often required in legal matters involving wills, trusts, power of attorney, guardianship, and consent for medical treatment.
• Healthcare: Medical professionals may require capacity assessments to determine whether a patient can provide informed consent for medical procedures or treatments.
• Financial Transactions: Capacity assessments can be relevant when an individual is involved in significant financial transactions but may be vulnerable due to cognitive impairments.

The process of initiating a referral is simple. You may easily contact me directly through email, or phone. Normally, I can arrange for an assessment within one to two weeks, assuming the patient has obtained medical clearance. As part of the process I will assist in determining medical clearance status. 

When it comes to scheduling the assessment, I can meet the patient either in the comfort of their own home, or in any assisted living environment.To provide additional convenience, I also have appointments available during evenings and weekends.

After the assessment meeting, I will put together the official Capacity Assessment Report (CAR) and provide it to the individual who is applying to take on the role of a supported decision maker, co-decision maker, guardian, or trustee. 

Financial support is accessible for those requiring assistance. I can link you with someone who can guide you through the official funding application procedure with the Office of the Public Guardian and Trustee.