Resource Link

https://health.ucdavis.edu/media-resources/mind-institute/documents/pdfs/sdm-faq-aclu.pdf

Resource Description

Introduction: This guide answers common questions about Supported Decision-Making (SDM). It explains how SDM helps people with disabilities make their own choices by working with trusted helpers. The guide comes from the American Civil Liberties Union (ACLU) and shows how SDM is different from guardianship and other kinds of help.

Resource Summary

Content Summary: SDM lets people with disabilities keep control of their choices while getting help they need. They pick trusted people like family, friends, or professionals to be their supporters. These helpers explain things clearly, talk through options, and help the person think about their choices. Every person uses SDM in their own way. Some people need simple language or pictures to understand choices. Others might want someone to take notes at doctor visits or help make lists of good and bad points about a choice. Some might share a bank account with a helper to learn about money choices. The guide explains how SDM is different from guardianship. With guardianship, a judge picks someone to make all the choices for a person. The guardian has the final say, and it's hard to change anything without going back to court. With SDM, the person with a disability makes their own choices. They can change their helpers anytime without going to court. SDM is safer than guardianship because people usually have more than one helper. Different helpers might help with different things. For example, a parent might help with money while a friend helps with social choices. Having many helpers means they can watch out for any problems. Many families already use SDM without calling it that. They help their family members learn to make choices by giving them practice and support. Making SDM official can help doctors, banks, and others respect the choices of people with disabilities. In some places, like Texas, people can sign a paper that shows they use SDM. This helps professionals feel safe accepting the person's choices. The main point is that SDM helps people with disabilities keep their rights while getting support they need. It lets them grow and learn new skills over time. Most importantly, it makes sure they have the final say in their own lives.