Supported Decision-Making Overview

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Questions and Answers

What is the primary aim of Supported Decision-Making?

To enhance the role of guardians in decision-making

To limit the decisions of individuals with disabilities

To replace guardianship entirely

To allow individuals with disabilities to make choices with support (correct)

Who can be chosen as supporters in Supported Decision-Making?

Only legal representatives

Professionals only

Only family members

Anyone known and trusted by the individual (correct)

How does Supported Decision-Making differ from guardianship?

It permits individuals to be fully independent

It allows individuals to make their own decisions rather than having someone else make them (correct)

It requires a legal process

It offers strict guidelines that must be followed

Which of the following is a common misconception about individuals under guardianship?

They are restricted from making important decisions Signup and view all the answers

What types of decisions might individuals with disabilities need assistance with in Supported Decision-Making?

Personal health care and living arrangements Signup and view all the answers

Why is Supported Decision-Making considered flexible?

It can be adapted to different locations and individuals’ needs Signup and view all the answers

What could be a potential barrier to implementing Supported Decision-Making?

A lack of awareness or understanding of SDM Signup and view all the answers

What is a key benefit of having a support network in Supported Decision-Making?

Encouragement of personal agency and informed choices Signup and view all the answers

What is expected to happen to the number of individuals with intellectual or developmental disabilities (I/DD) under guardianship in the coming decades?

Increase due to enhanced medical care Signup and view all the answers

What has contributed to the shift from guardianship to Supported Decision-Making?

A paradigm shift toward rights-focused constructs Signup and view all the answers

How has Supported Decision-Making been viewed in other countries compared to the United States?

It has been evolving for more than a decade in other countries Signup and view all the answers

What key principle does Article 12 of the United Nations Convention on the Rights of People with Disabilities emphasize?

Persons with disabilities enjoy legal capacity on an equal basis with others Signup and view all the answers

What positive outcome was observed in individuals who participated in the Supported Decision-Making pilot project?

They exercised decision-making rights with assistance from supporters Signup and view all the answers

What did the local pharmacist do to assist the participant in making her own decision about medication?

Reviewed the pros and cons of the medication with her and her supporter Signup and view all the answers

What aspect of life do individuals with disabilities have the right to make decisions about under Supported Decision-Making?

Every aspect of their lives, including health care and relationships Signup and view all the answers

What was a common sentiment among supporters of participants in the Supported Decision-Making process?

Vindication for not pursuing guardianship Signup and view all the answers

What demographic is expected to significantly grow in numbers among individuals with I/DD facing guardianship issues by 2030?

Individuals over 60 years old Signup and view all the answers

What effect did the Supported Decision-Making have on the pilot participants compared to conventional guardianship?

They developed a strong sense of independence Signup and view all the answers

Study Notes

Supported Decision-Making (SDM) Overview

SDM empowers individuals with disabilities to make their own life choices, with support from a chosen team.
This differs from guardianship, where a guardian makes decisions for the individual.
SDM is a process where individuals consult with trusted supporters before making decisions.
Examples of support-seeking decisions are everyday choices like dating or job changes, showing that everyone utilizes SDM.

SDM for Individuals with Disabilities

Those with disabilities may need assistance with decisions about living, health, relationships, or finances.
Support comes from a network of trusted individuals or providers, chosen by the person with a disability.
Supporters respect the individual's choices and preferences.

SDM Structure and Process

SDM has a structured process but remains flexible and adaptable to individual needs.
It varies across locations and individuals.

Importance of SDM

Individuals under guardianship lack the right to make their own decisions.
Guardianship can affect significant life choices like health care, finances, relationships, family, etc., all made by the guardian.
A significant number (potentially 1.5 to 3 million) of US adults are under guardianship.
A substantial increase in guardianship cases involving individuals with disabilities is projected due to improved life expectancy.

The "Paradigm Shift"

SDM represents a shift from the traditional, overly protective model of guardianship towards a rights-focused approach.
The shift is supported by international movements towards legal capacity for all, including people with disabilities.
Documents like the UN Convention on the Rights of People with Disabilities highlight this shift.

Values Underlying SDM

All adults, with or without disabilities, have the right to make their own decisions concerning their life, including healthcare, finances, relationships, living arrangements, or even political choices.

How SDM Works

Evaluation of pilot projects involving people with disabilities found SDM effective as an alternative to guardianship.
Individuals utilize SDM by gathering information, consulting supporters, and making their own independent decisions.
Positive outcomes were observed for individuals and their supporters, including a sense of empowerment and reduced anxiety about guardianship.

Example of SDM in Action

One participant used SDM to make a decision about medication.
Instead of having a guardian decide for the individual, the person was supported by trusted professionals in a clear exchange of information.

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Description

This quiz explores the concept of Supported Decision-Making (SDM), emphasizing its significance for individuals with disabilities. Participants will learn how SDM empowers individuals to make their own choices with support from a trusted team, as opposed to traditional guardianship. The quiz also covers the flexible structure and process of SDM, highlighting its importance in everyday decision-making.