If you have concerns about your older parent’s decision-making, ability to manage their own finances, or ability to live independently, chances are you have considered asking them to have a capacity assessment by a psychologist in California. Sometimes, these types of requests are met with a lot of resistance. Here’s some information that might help.
What Is a Capacity Assessment?
A capacity assessment is the process of determining whether an older adult has the ability to make their own decisions about their life. This can be important in a number of situations, such as when an older adult is considering making a change to their living arrangements, making medical decisions, or managing their finances.
There are a number of different factors that can be considered in a capacity assessment, including older adults:
Cognitive abilities, such as their ability to understand information, retain information, and make decisions
Emotional abilities, such as their ability to manage their emotions and make rational decisions
Physical abilities, such as their ability to communicate and interact with others
Life experiences and values
The Goal of Capacity Assessment
Age alone, or even a diagnosis of dementia, does not automatically mean a person lacks capacity. My goal in capacity assessment is always to preserve a person’s autonomy and ability to make their own decisions to the extent possible while also ensuring their safety and well-being. This is a balancing act, but the goal is NOT to automatically take away decision-making rights just because a person is older or has a dementia diagnosis.
The specific factors that are considered in an assessment will vary depending on the situation, and the concern. For example, if an older adult is considering making a change to their living arrangements, the assessment may focus on their cognitive abilities, practical safety skills, and their ability to manage their finances. If an older adult is deciding on a risky medical procedure, the assessment may focus on their understanding of the medical information and ability to make an informed decision.
The results of a capacity assessment can have a big impact on an older adult's life. If the psychologist determines that the older adult lacks capacity in an area, they may be unable to make their own decisions about their life in that area. In this case, a guardian or conservator may be appointed to make decisions on their behalf.
Explain Why You Want a Capacity Assessment With a Psychologist
Obviously, the results of a capacity assessment can have a big impact on your parent’s life, and it is understandable that they might be resistant to testing.
If you want your older adult parent to do a capacity assessment with a psychologist because you are concerned about their safety or decision-making, here are some thoughts on how to encourage their participation.
Talk to your parent about your concerns at a calm moment when you have time and privacy to talk.
Explain why you think they should take a capacity assessment and what you hope to achieve by doing so. Be specific about what worries you, and give concrete examples.
Be respectful and understanding, but also be clear in your belief that it is in their best interest.
Reassure them that you will help and support them as best you can no matter what.
If They Still Decline a Capacity Assessment, Then What?
You cannot force your parent to take a capacity assessment. However, you can take steps to help protect your parent's interests.
Gather evidence of your parent's declining mental capacity. This could include things like medical records, reports from doctors or other healthcare professionals, or even just observations of your parent's behavior. For example, if your parent has been the victim of a financial scam, document when and details of what happened, how much money they lost, and so on. This evidence will help to support your case if you need to take legal action.
Consult with an attorney. An attorney can help you understand the legal options available to you and can represent you in court if necessary.
Consider a consultation with a psychologist with expertise in capacity assessment, like Dr. Reger, who can offer her insight into your specific situation, and can explain the process of assessment.
Reach out to a support group or advocacy organization. There are many organizations that can provide support and guidance to families dealing with issues of mental capacity. They can offer advice on how to talk to your parent, how to gather evidence, and how to navigate the legal system.
Here are some additional resources that you may find helpful:
The National Council on Aging: https://www.ncoa.org/
The Alzheimer's Association: https://www.alz.org/
The American Bar Association: https://www.americanbar.org/
Receive a Capacity Assessment in Los Angeles, CA
If your loved one decides to receive support in the form of a capacity assessment, Dr. Reger would be honored to help. She provides capacity assessments at several locations in Southern California. You can schedule an appointment by following these steps:
Contact (424) 262-1925 to schedule your appointment
Meet with a Los Angeles Psychologist for your capacity assessment
Start receiving the support your loved one deserves
OTHER COUNSELING SERVICES OFFERED BY DR. REGER IN LOS ANGELES, CA
I know that you or your family can encounter more than one mental health concern at a time. This is why I’m happy to offer multiple neuropsychological and psychological assessments. Other assessments include cognitive and dementia testing, pre-surgical assessments, and med-legal evaluations. In addition to evaluations, I also provide individual therapy, counseling for older adults, and mental health consultations and presentations.