Capacity Assessment
We provide comprehensive capacity assessments to help determine whether a person has decision-making capacity in relation to important personal, health, lifestyle, financial, or legal decisions. This service is designed to provide clear, evidence-based neuropsychological opinion where there are concerns about cognitive functioning, judgment, or decision-making ability.
What is a capacity assessment?
A capacity assessment is a detailed neuropsychological assessment that helps clarify whether someone is able to understand, weigh, and communicate decisions about important matters in their life.
At The Cognitive Health Clinic, we provide neuropsychological assessment where there are questions about decision-making capacity in matters involving enduring guardianship, enduring powers of attorney, wills, contracts and other specific decisions. We also perform capacity assessments to determine whether someone can make or change a will, or enter into a contract.
Who this service may be for
This service may be suitable when there are concerns about:
– memory, attention, judgment, or problem-solving
– cognitive decline or dementia
– brain injury or neurological illness
– a person’s ability to make informed financial, medical, legal, or personal decisions
– changes in behaviour, emotional regulation, or personality that may affect functioning or decision-making
What the assessment can help with
A capacity assessment may assist with questions about:
– enduring guardianship
– enduring power of attorney
– wills and estate planning
– contracts or other legal arrangements
– broader questions about cognitive functioning and real-world decision-making
Potential benefits
A capacity assessment may help by:
– clarifying decision-making ability and cognitive function
– providing diagnostic information to guide planning
– reducing uncertainty in complex medical, family, or legal situations
– offering practical recommendations about support needs and next steps
Referrals and fees
Referrals can be made by doctors, clients, or legal professionals via phone or email. Fees for assessments and services are available on our Services and Fees page. For legal matters or more complex assessments, fees may depend on scope and complexity.
Contact us
The Cognitive Health Clinic
Suite 7, Level 1, 1 Gregory Hills Dr
Gledswood Hills NSW 2557
Phone: (02) 4786 0492
Email: admin@tchclinic.com.au
Frequently Asked Questions
What types of capacity can a neuropsychologist assess?
Depending on the referral question, or letter of instruction, assessment may relate to financial decisions, personal or lifestyle decisions, enduring powers of attorney, guardianship, contracts or testamentary capacity.
Can you assess capacity to make or change a will?
Yes. The clinic undertakes neuropsychological assessments where there are questions about a person’s capacity to make or change a will. The assessment is tailored to the specific decision and circumstances.
Does having dementia automatically mean someone lacks decision-making capacity?
No. A diagnosis alone does not necessarily determine capacity. Capacity needs to be considered in relation to the particular decision and the person’s circumstances.
What information should be provided for a capacity assessment?
Relevant medical, legal and other records can assist the neuropsychologist in understanding the referral question and the person’s cognitive and functional history.