Supported Decision-Making
A less-restrictive alternative to guardianship that keeps people with disabilities at the center of decisions about their own lives — supported, not supplanted.
“Supported Decision-Making retains the individual as the primary decision maker, while recognizing that the individual with a disability may need some assistance — and perhaps a great deal of it — in making and communicating a decision.”
What it is
Supported Decision-Making (SDM) is a natural process most of us already use. It’s what really good family and friends do — having conversations about what you need and want, and helping you reach a decision with their input when needed.
For individuals with intellectual and developmental disabilities (IDD), SDM is a set of strategies to give them more control over their lives and futures. They choose the people they trust to help them understand complex information and make informed decisions about their medical, legal, financial, and other life matters.
Colorado legally recognizes SDM as an alternative or addition to guardianship. But legal recognition aside, it simply reflects how most people already make decisions every day — leaning on the people who know them best.
How it works
Choose your supporters
The individual with a disability selects family members, friends, or trusted allies who will help them understand information and think through decisions.
Have the conversation
When an important decision comes up, supporters explain options in accessible language, help weigh pros and cons, and answer questions — without taking over.
The individual decides
The person with the disability makes the final call. Supporters advise, they do not override. Their role is to help the individual communicate and carry out their own choice.
Formalize when needed
Colorado law (2021 Senate Bill) recognizes Supported Decision-Making agreements. These can be put in writing so doctors, banks, and schools understand the arrangement.
When to consider it
Guardianship is the most restrictive option. Before you pursue it, we encourage families to consider whether Supported Decision-Making could meet your needs instead.
- An adult with an IDD who can communicate preferences but benefits from help understanding complex information.
- Families who want to respect autonomy without pursuing full legal guardianship.
- Situations where guardianship would be the most restrictive option on the table.
- Healthcare, financial, legal, or education decisions where a trusted team is already involved informally.
Colorado’s Supported Decision-Making Law
In 2021, Colorado formally recognized Supported Decision-Making agreements as a legal alternative to guardianship for adults with disabilities.
Read the 2021 Colorado Senate Law