The Arc Oregon - Course catalog

Alternatives to Guardianship

This training offers a clear overview of alternatives to guardianship and why less restrictive options are explored first. Participants will learn how adults can be supported to make decisions in areas like health care, finances, and education, and gain a practical understanding of what guardianship does—and does not—cover. The session emphasizes informed choice, autonomy, and the importance of tailoring supports to each individual.

By the end of this training, participants will be able to:

  • Identify a range of alternatives to guardianship across key life areas (health care, financial, educational, and daily living).
  • Explain what guardianship is and is not, including the rights it removes and its legal scope.
  • Understand the concept of capacity and how decision-making ability can vary across situations and over time.
  • Determine when an alternative to guardianship may be more appropriate than pursuing guardianship.