Supporting Decision-Making and Capacity

Parkinson’s can, in its later stages, impact cognitive function—affecting reasoning, memory and the ability to make decisions. This doesn’t happen to everyone and many people with Parkinson’s retain full mental capacity, but it’s important to plan ahead in case more support is needed.

Understanding Mental Capacity

The Mental Capacity Act (MCA) protects individuals who may struggle to make decisions due to health conditions. It ensures decisions are made in their best interests if they are unable to make or communicate choices themselves.

Five key principles of the MCA:

1. Assume capacity unless proven otherwise.
2. Support individuals to make their own decisions.
3. Respect values and preferences—even if they differ from yours.
4. Any decision on someone’s behalf must be in their best interest.
5. Always choose the least restrictive option available.