Delta Neuropsychology Melbourne
- Decision Making Capacity 

At Delta Neuropsychology Melbourne, Evelyn Chen is experienced in decision making capacity assessments. These assessments are conducted in Melbourne: Camberwell, Chadstone, Scoresby, and Ringwood.

 

The law indicates that adults are presumed to have the capacity to make decisions, unless it can be shown that they do not. The ability to make decisions is a human right, however, there are circumstances in which we may lose the capacity to make decisions for ourselves. This can occur, for example, when a person experiences a stroke or head injury, or develops dementia. In some situations, it is clear that the individual does not have the capacity to make decisions (e.g., when they have severe dementia). In many cases, however, it can be unclear. In Melbourne, Victoria, it is important to understand that an individual's ability to make decisions is not removed by the tribunal, such as the Victorian Civil and Administrative Tribunal (VCAT) just because they have a disability. Decision making capacity is also decision specific. For example, a person may not have the capacity to make decisions regarding their finances, however, they have the capacity to make decisions regarding their lifestyle (e.g., accommodation).

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Neuropsychologists are skilled in decision making capacity assessments, and are often called upon to conduct such assessments by other medical professionals (when decision making capacity is unclear). VCAT places substantial weight on  neuropsychology reports as the assessment takes into account the individual's life circumstances, which includes their current cognitive function, cultural background, prior behaviours, medical conditions, medications, and relationships. 

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At Delta Neuropsychology Melbourne, decision making capacity assessments are conducted for the following:

• Financial decisions 

• Lifestyle decisions, such as accommodation, healthcare choices 

• Testamentary capacity

• Appointing an enduring power of attorney 

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To find out more regarding your rights, and to assist with planning your future, visit the Office of the Public Advocate for more information.