Supported Decision-Making

If an adult has the capacity to make their own decisions but they would like some help, they can sign a form that authorizes someone they trust to be their "supporter".

The adult can give their supporter legal permission to access relevant information that might otherwise be protected under privacy laws.

For example, a supporter could present the supported decision-making authorization form to the adult's pharmacist if they have questions about potential drug interactions related to the adult's prescriptions. This would reassure the pharmacist that the adult has provided consent to share this information.

The supporter’s role could also include helping the adult think through the decision-making process and communicate decisions, if necessary.

Supported decision-making is appropriate for any personal, non-financial decisions.

There is no formal Court application process to enter into a supported decision-making arrangement. It is an agreement by the parties involved—the adult and the supporter.

Together, they sign a supported decision-making authorization form that outlines the purpose of the arrangement and the kinds of decisions they wish to include.

The authorization form is available below or at any Office of the Public Guardian.

Once the authorization form is signed, it is recommended that both parties retain a copy of it. At any time, the adult or the supporter may end the supported decision-making arrangement. The supported adult signs a Termination of Supported Decision-Making Authorization form. This form is also available below or at the Office of the Public Guardian.

A supporter must be over the age of 18 and should have a trusting relationship with the adult. The Public Guardian cannot be a supporter.

The adult may name up to three supporters.

If the adult loses their capacity to make personal decisions and the Court appoints a co-decision-maker or a guardian, or their personal directive is enacted, the supported decision-making authorization ends.

If you are considering a supported decision-making authorization, you might also think about preparing and registering a Personal Directive which would come into effect if you lost capacity to make decisions.

Personal Directives Kit