Adult Social Care Glossary, v 0.6

The Mental Capacity Act (MCA) provides a non-exhaustive checklist of factors that decision-makers must work through in deciding what is in a person's best interests. Some of the factors to take into consideration are:

- Do not discriminate. Do not make assumptions about someone's best interests merely on the basis of the person's age or appearance, condition or any aspect their behaviour.
- Take into account all relevant circumstances
- If faced with a particularly difficult or contentious decision, it is recommended that practitioners adopt a 'balance sheet' approach
- Will the person regain capacity? If so, can the decision wait?
- Involve the individual as fully as possible
- Take into account the individual's past and present wishes and feelings, and any beliefs and values likely to have a bearing on the decision
- Consult as far and as widely as possible.

Again, it is vital that you record your best interests decision. Not only is this good professional practice, but given the evidence-based approach required by the MCA, you will have an objective record should your decision or decision-making processes later be challenged.

For more detailed information you should refer to the Mental Capacity Act Code of Practice.