Supported decision-making is a process that equips adults with intellectual and developmental disabilities to make decisions about their lives. While some people think conservatorship is the only way to support people in making decisions about their services and supports, other options are available. With supported decision-making, individuals with intellectual and developmental disabilities can choose a trusted family member, friend, or someone else to collaborate with to make decisions. Each individual chooses what they want support for, and the kind of support that works best for them. It is important for individuals and families to understand how supported decision-making works as early as possible in a person’s life.
The Department developed a Frequently Asked Questions document about supported decision-making that is posted on the Department’s website in 11 different languages:
- English
- Arabic
- Armenian (Eastern)
- Farsi
- Hmong
- Korean
- Russian
- Simplified Chinese
- Spanish
- Tagalog
- Traditional Chinese
- Vietnamese