Sometimes a person may no longer be able to make some decisions on their own, about their health care, where they live or their finances, and there's no personal directive or enduring power of attorney in place. When that happens, a family member or friend may need to apply to the court for guardianship or trusteeship. In Alberta, a capacity assessment is part of that application.
I'm a Designated Capacity Assessor with Alberta's Office of the Public Guardian and Trustee. I complete capacity assessments with care, patience and respect for the person at the centre of the process.
The process
- First conversation. We talk about the situation, whether an assessment is the right step, and who will be involved.
- Meeting with your loved one. I explain the purpose of the assessment to them and meet in a quiet, comfortable setting, usually where they live.
- The assessment. I talk with them about the specific decisions in question and may also speak with family and care providers and review relevant information.
- The forms. I complete the required capacity assessment forms for the guardianship or trusteeship application.
What to know
- My role is to give an honest, independent opinion. I can't promise a particular outcome.
- Capacity is decision-specific. A person may be able to make some decisions and not others, and the assessment reflects that.
- The person being assessed is treated with dignity throughout and kept informed.
Investment
$700 for a combined guardianship and trusteeship assessment, or $500 for a guardianship or trusteeship assessment on its own. These follow the maximum fees set by Alberta.
Not sure if you need an assessment? Book a free consultation and we'll talk it through. Alberta's Office of the Public Guardian and Trustee also has guides on guardianship and trusteeship.
