A capacity assessment is a professional evaluation used to determine whether an adult has the mental and cognitive ability to understand information and make informed decisions about important aspects of their life, such as personal care, medical treatment, financial affairs, or legal matters. In Alberta, this type of assessment is typically requested when there are genuine concerns that a person’s ability to make sound decisions might be affected by conditions such as cognitive impairments, health changes, memory issues, or vulnerability to financial exploitation. A capacity assessment helps clarify whether an individual can understand relevant facts, appreciate the consequences of their choices, and communicate a reasoned decision — and it can support decisions about activating personal directives or appointing guardians, trustees, or co‑decision‑makers when needed.
At clinics like RM Psychological Services in Calgary, capacity assessments are conducted with respect for the individual’s autonomy and dignity, following Alberta healthcare and legal standards. The process generally includes clinical interviews and a structured evaluation, and the results provide families and professionals with guidance about the person’s decision‑making capacity and next steps.
