When does assessments of capacity need to be made and used?

Assessments of capacity need to be made when individuals are required to make decisions regarding their personal welfare, healthcare, or financial matters. This is particularly important when there are concerns about a person's ability to understand, retain, and weigh information relevant to a decision. These assessments should be used whenever there is a significant change in circumstance, such as a medical condition, or when an individual exhibits signs of cognitive impairment. It is crucial to ensure that decisions are made in the best interest of the individual while respecting their autonomy.