Resource Link

https://supporteddecisions.org/about-supported-decision-making/frequently-asked-questions/

Resource Description

Introduction: This guide explains common questions about Supported Decision-Making (SDM). The Center for Public Representation made this guide to help people learn about SDM. SDM helps people with disabilities make their own choices about their lives.

Resource Summary

Content Summary: SDM lets people with disabilities stay in control of their choices. They pick helpers they trust, like family, friends, or others they know well. These helpers explain things clearly and help the person think about their options. This helps the person make good choices for themselves. People can pick as many helpers as they want. Some states have rules about paid workers being helpers. But even in states without SDM laws, people can still use SDM to make choices. The person with a disability always makes the final choice, even if their helpers think differently. This is true even for choices that might seem risky. Helpers can give advice, but they can't force the person to choose something. For health care choices, people can name someone to decide for them if they get too sick to choose. These forms come in many languages. Anyone can use SDM, but people under 18 may have some limits because of their age, not their disability. Each state has different rules about guardianship and conservatorship. It's good to learn what these words mean in your state. People using SDM can get help even if they have a guardian now. They can try SDM to see if it works better for them than guardianship. SDM works for people with all types of disabilities because the help can change based on what each person needs. There are many places to get help with starting SDM. You can find guides and tools to help you begin. These resources show you how to pick good helpers and make SDM work well for you.