Supported Decision-Making
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Not every young adult with a disability needs a legal guardian when they turn 18. Many can make their own decisions with little or no help.
When a young adult does need support to make important adult decisions, families can choose from several options. These include supported decision-making, which gives the young adult the most independence, a power of attorney, or having a legal guardian. Families should think about which option best fits their child’s needs and helps them stay as independent as possible.
Supported Decision-Making means a young adult keeps the power to make their own choices but gets help from people they trust.
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How It Works
- The young adult chooses people—like family members, friends, or professionals—to help them understand information and make decisions.
- These helpers do not make decisions for them. They support the young adult so they can decide.
Why It Matters
Studies show that people with disabilities who make their own choices:
- Have a better quality of life
- Are more independent
- Are more likely to get a job
- Are more involved in their community
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Supported Decision-Making Can Help People:
- Understand information, choices, and important issues
- Stay focused when making decisions
- Compare options and think about what is best
- Make choices based on their own wants and needs
- Communicate their decisions to others
Learn more about your options, including Supported Decision-Making with these helpful Resources