Having the power or freedom to control your own life is called self-determination. As a parent or family member of a person with a disability, you may often make decisions and choices for that person. We all want our family members to be safe but we must make sure that all people have opportunities to direct their own life.

Two women sitting on a couch, surrounded by green plants, and facing each other and conversing.

When your family member with a disability reaches a certain age, like any other adolescent, you should encourage them to begin making their own decisions. Let them have control over their decisions, and support them if needed. Once they reach adulthood and turn 18, you can continue that process of support: it’s called supported decision-making.

Supported decision making is something everyone does. When we have to make a decision and want to seek support, we go to people who understand our values, converse with them, and then make the decision on our own. With supported decision making, a person with a disability can be practice self-determination and be independent.

Supported decision making allows a person with a disability to choose who is a part of their support system and have the final say on their decisions, unlike guardianship, where they do not have the right to make their own decisions. While guardianship may seem like the best decision to ensure your family member with a disability is safe, it is best to try supported decision making to help your loved one be as independent as possible.

For even more resources on Supported Decision Making, you can visit the SC Supported Decision Making Project website for a full list of resources, or explore the following materials: