Mental capacity is a multidimensional construct and a central determinant of an individual's ability to make autonomous decisions6. Mental capacity refers to the ability through which an individual:
• Understands information provided to him/her.
• Retains that information long enough to be able to make the decision.
• Weighs the information available to make the decision.
• Communicates their decision.
• Performs particular tasks ranging from routine activities to specific duties. …show more content…
The entire act is based on following five principles for assessment of mental capacity7: • Principle 1: Capacity should always be assumed. A patient's diagnosis, behavior, or appearance should not lead you to presume the capacity is absent.
• Principle 2: A person's ability to make decisions must be optimized before concluding that capacity is absent. All practicable steps must be taken, such as giving sufficient time for assessments; repeating assessments if capacity is fluctuating; and if relevant, using interpreters, sign language, or