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

Article

Zuscak, Simon John, Peisah, Carmelle and Ferguson, Alison. 2016. "A collaborative approach to supporting communication in the assessment of decision-making capacity." Disability and Rehabilitation. 38 (11), pp. 1107-1114. https://doi.org/10.3109/09638288.2015.1092176
Article Title

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

ERA Journal ID16035
Article CategoryArticle
AuthorsZuscak, Simon John (Author), Peisah, Carmelle (Author) and Ferguson, Alison (Author)
Journal TitleDisability and Rehabilitation
Journal Citation38 (11), pp. 1107-1114
Number of Pages8
Year2016
PublisherTaylor & Francis
Place of PublicationUnited Kingdom
ISSN0963-8288
1464-5165
Digital Object Identifier (DOI)https://doi.org/10.3109/09638288.2015.1092176
Web Address (URL)https://www.tandfonline.com/doi/full/10.3109/09638288.2015.1092176
Abstract

Purpose: This paper explores the clinical implications of acquired communication disorders in decisional capacity. Discipline-specific contributions are discussed in a multidisciplinary context, with a specific focus on the role of speech and language pathologists (SLPs).

Method: Key rehabilitation issues in determining decisional capacity are identified. The impact of communication impairment on capacity is discussed in light of the research literature relating to supportive communication and collaborative practice that respects human rights.

Results: Guidelines are presented for professionals involved in the assessment of the decisional capacity of individuals with communication disorders of neurological origin. They guide an assessor through: assessing cognition, language and speech; determining preferred communication domains; and practical strategies and considerations for maximising communication.

Conclusion: There is a dearth of guidelines available that deal with augmenting and supporting communication of individuals with acquired communication disorders of neurological origin when it comes to assessing legal
decision-making capacity. Capacity assessment is a multidisciplinary realm, and the involvement of SLPs is key to maximising the decision-making capacity of these individuals.

Keywordsaphasia, cognitive communication disorder, decision-making assessments, human rights
ANZSRC Field of Research 2020520402. Decision making
529999. Other psychology not elsewhere classified
Public Notes

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Byline AffiliationsFaculty of Health, Engineering and Sciences
University of New South Wales
University of Newcastle
Institution of OriginUniversity of Southern Queensland
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