Interview for Decisional Abilities (IDA)

The Interview for Decisional Abilities (IDA) assists Adult Protective Service (APS) workers with the difficult decisions they face every day about balancing safety, autonomy, and the law. The Interview for Decisional Abilities (IDA) is a practical, evidence-based tool designed to help APS professionals confidently assess an adult's ability to make informed decisions.

Why APS professionals choose the IDA:
- Clear and Structured – Guides you step-by-step through the core elements of decisional capacity: understanding, appreciation, reasoning, and choice.
- Decision-Specific – Focuses on the actual decision at hand, supporting least-restrictive and person-centered practice.
- Defensible Documentation – Produces clear, organized findings that support case records, court reports, and multidisciplinary collaboration.
- Respectful and Ethical – Promotes client dignity by distinguishing risk-taking from incapacity.
- Practical in the Field – Flexible enough for real-world APS settings, including medical, financial, and housing decisions.

Ideal for assessing:
- Decisions about accepting services
- Financial and exploitation-related decisions
- Medical and placement decisions

Built for professionals who protect and respect adult autonomy. This 100% virtual training strengthens assessments, supports sound interventions, and helps ensure that protective actions are consistent, ethical and legally sound.

Required Dates (participants are required to attend all sessions):
- March 1st, 2027: Training Begins
- April 5th, 2027, 9-12pm CT: Virtual 3-Hour Role Play Workshop
- April 19th, 2027, 10-11am CT: Feedback Session