MC1 What is mental capacity?

Mental capacity is not just a concept that is important for people using social and healthcare services. They are in need of health- or social care for reasons which may also mean they need support with decision making.

Mental capacity is relevant to everyone else too. All of us are likely to need care when we are older. Many of us will be diagnosed with dementia and will find our ability to make decisions for ourselves declines. Even before old age, accidents and unforeseen illnesses can occur that can reduce our mental capacity. Life is unpredictable. Making sure we understand the implications of not having mental capacity while we have it can make a big difference to our lives and to those around us if we lose it.

A useful definition of mental capacity which encapsulates its key features is:

Mental capacity is the ability to make a particular decision or to take a particular action by any person for themselves at the time the decision or action needs to be taken.