What is supported decision-making?
Supported decision-making is an authorization process that enables someone to help a capable adult make personal decisions.
For more information, visit the supported decision-making section of our resource directory.
Why would I need this?
Even if an adult can make their own decisions, there may be times when they need help making personal decisions. This is when supported decision-making is useful.
Supported decision-making allows for adults who still have capacity (the supported adult) to select up to three individuals (supporters) to help them make personal decisions – but not financial decisions.
This authorization could help a capable adult when they:
- Are facing difficult decisions and would like help in the decision making process
- Are having difficulties communicating in English and would like help communicating decisions
- Have other communications difficulties
- Have mild disabilities
- Need help for a short time due to a temporary condition
What can a supporter legally do?
A supporter has legal authority to:
- Access the adult's personal information needed to make a decision
- Help them communicate that decision
How do I start this process?
If you believe you would benefit from supported decision-making authorization, visit the Government of Alberta website for next steps and to access the authorization form.
A supported decision-making authorization form is not registered anywhere, so the supported adult and the supporter should each have a copy.
New driver?
Hi, I’m Haitao and I just got my driver's licence. I’ve spoken to my parents about what kind of care I want in the event that I'm in a serious car accident and made a decision regarding organ and tissue donation. I’m a careful driver so I have no plans to get in an accident, but it’s smart to be prepared.