top of page

Capacity Assessment

A capacity assessment is an evaluation process used to determine whether an individual has the mental and cognitive ability to make informed decisions in specific areas of their life. This could relate to decisions about their health, finances, legal matters, or daily living. Capacity assessments are typically carried out by healthcare professionals and most often used for individuals whose decision-making abilities might be impaired due to age, illness, injury, or developmental issues.

When is a Capacity Assessment Used?

​

Capacity assessments are often requested when there is concern that someone may not be able to make sound decisions due to conditions such as:

  • Dementia or Alzheimer's disease

  • Intellectual or developmental disabilities

  • Traumatic brain injury

  • Mental health conditions

  • Substance abuse issues

​

Ultimately, a capacity assessment aims to balance the individual's right to make their own choices with the need for protection when their decision-making ability may be compromised.

Overview

​

A capacity assessment is done only if there are legitimate reasons to believe the adult does not have the ability to make their own decisions.

​

Medical exam

​

Before a capacity assessment, a doctor must give the adult a medical exam to make sure their decision-making ability isn’t being affected by a medical condition that is:

  • temporary, or

  • reversible

A healthcare professional, called a capacity assessor, checks to see if the adult understands:

  • the facts they should consider when making a decision

  • what could happen if they choose one option over another

Capacity is assessed to help determine whether or not:

  • a personal directive should be enacted to give the agent authority to make a personal decision, or

  • one of these decision-makers should be appointed for an adult:

    • Co-decision-maker

    • Guardian

    • Trustee

​

Co-decision-making capacity assessment

The capacity assessor:

  • meets with the adult

  • asks them questions to determine the degree to which they can make personal decisions

  • fills outs and signs a form that's valid for 6 months to be used in an application for co-decision-making

 

What is the cost?

The fee, under the regulations, for a capacity assessment is:

  • $500 for co-decision-making

​

Adult guardianship and trusteeship capacity assessment

The capacity assessor:

  • meets with the adult

  • asks them questions to determine the degree to which they can make personal decisions

  • fills out and signs a form that’s valid for 6 months to be used in an application for guardianship or trusteeship

​

What is the cost?

The fee, under the regulations, for a capacity assessment is:

  • $500 for guardianship or trusteeship

  • $700 for combined guardianship and trusteeship

Book a Service

Client Testimonials

John's Story

I am truly grateful for the guidance and support I received from Capacity Assessment Alberta. Their expertise and compassion have helped me navigate difficult times.

Emily's Experience

The team at Capacity Assessment Alberta is incredibly skilled and caring and I'm thankful for the positive changes in my life.

Alex's Testimonial

Working with Capacity Assessment Alberta has been a excellent experience. Their professionalism and dedication have empowered me to make significant improvements in my mental well-being.

Sara's Journey

I can't thank Capacity Assessment Alberta and therapist Camelia enough for the impactful support they provided me. Their commitment to helping individuals achieve mental wellness is truly commendable.
bottom of page