Making Your Own Decisions
Everyone makes decisions every day—from small choices like what to wear to big decisions like where to live or work. People with intellectual and developmental disabilities (IDD) make these same decisions. Some decisions they can make on their own. Sometimes, they may want or need help.
Everyone has the right to:
- Make their own decisions.
- Make mistakes and learn from them.
- Get support when they want it.
- Change their mind about the support they need.
It is important to understand what decision-making options are available, so you can make a plan that works best for each person.
Why Make a Decision-Making Plan
Things can change at any time. For example, you might get sick and have trouble making decisions for a while. Caretakers might get sick or move away. The need for a guardian could change. It is important to plan for these changes before a crisis to ensure everyone’s needs can be respected.
Everyone on the future planning team should understand the plan for how decisions will be made. Think about:
- Who are trusted sources who can help
- What kinds of decisions will be made independently
- When others may need to help
- What to do if things change
Getting Help From Trusted People
When facing big decisions, many people get advice from friends, family, or others they trust. This is called supported decision-making. It can include:
- Talking to friends about job options
- Getting advice about where to live
- Asking family about medical choices
- Getting help to understand important papers
This is the most common way people make big decisions.
Having Someone Else Make Decisions
Sometimes a person might want or need someone else to make decisions for them. This is called substitute decision-making or guardianship. Some people think guardianship is the only way to keep someone safe or get services. This is not true.
- Most people with disabilities do not need a guardian.
- Most people can make their own choices, and there are usually other ways to get help.
- Guardianship should be the last choice, only when other types of support do not work.
It is important to understand the limits of guardianship and the laws in each state. You can start by reading about common guardianship myths and misconceptions.
Ready to Start Planning?
Our future planning template makes it easy to get started! Writing a future plan for a person with IDD helps explain daily routines, preferences, support needs, and goals for the future. It can complement legal and financial plans by providing personal details about the person that are not typically included in formal paperwork.
Remember to review and update this plan at least once a year. As life changes, this document should change too.