A collaborative approach to supporting communication in the assessment of decision making capacity

A collaborative approach to supporting communication in the assessment of decision making capacity

Legislation is beginning to reflect the need to formally assess people whom are suspected of reduced mental capacity. However, these legislative changes have preceded research into effective and efficient assessment protocols. In order to demonstrate decision making capacity, an individual needs to communicate their understanding and wishes. However, decision making capacity can be masked when communication is impaired, for example, through impaired receptive and expressive language or unintelligible speech. For this reason, people with aphasia and related neurogenic communication disorders can be significantly compromised in their ability to participate n decision making, yet have a human right to the support required to facilitate such decision-making and to exercise their legal capacity (United Nations, 2006). Speech-language pathologists are integral to maximising a person’s communication ability; however, commonly used speech pathology strategies are not well known by other disciplines (Ferguson et al, 2010). We present up-to-date guidelines and practical strategies to facilitate communication in people with aphasias and other language deficits. A collaborative, multi-disciplinary approach is achievable and consistent with an inclusive human rights approach to decision making.

Abstract only published.