Self-determination is one of the most important principles in guardianship. At its core, it means recognizing that every person, regardless of their abilities or limitations, has the right to be heard, to express their preferences, and to play a meaningful role in shaping their own life.

NGA Standard 9 highlights this responsibility clearly. It reminds guardians that their role is not to take over a person’s life, but to support and empower them. True guardianship honors autonomy while providing the right level of protection, guidance, and care.

What Is NGA Standard 9: Self-Determination?

NGA Standard 9 states that guardians must:

• Encourage the person to participate in decisions as much as possible
• Honor the individual’s values, preferences, and life goals
• Promote independence in every area where it is safe and possible
• Use substituted judgment only when necessary and with respect for the person’s identity and history
• Avoid unnecessary restrictions or limitations

In practice, this means asking questions, listening closely, and considering the person’s wishes as the starting point for every decision.

What Does Self-Determination Look Like in Daily Life?

Self-determination comes alive in small moments and everyday choices:

1. Asking, not assuming

Before making a decision, a guardian checks in.
What do you prefer? What feels right for you?

2. Supporting independence where possible

Even small decisions, such as choosing clothing, meals, or daily routines, help maintain a sense of control and identity.

3. Respecting personal history and values

A person’s culture, beliefs, relationships, and past choices matter. Guardianship honors those threads, rather than replacing them.

4. Encouraging participation in planning

Whether it is medical care, living arrangements, or financial decisions, the individual’s input guides the direction.

5. Preserving dignity at every step

Self-determination ensures that the person is treated as the center of their own life, not a passive bystander in it.

How the Protected Person’s Bill of Rights Supports Self-Determination

The Protected Person’s Bill of Rights reinforces this principle by affirming that individuals under guardianship still have the right to:

• Be treated with dignity, respect, and compassion
• Participate in decisions affecting their life
• Be informed and included whenever possible
• Retain rights that are not legally removed
• Live in the least restrictive environment
• Communicate openly with family, friends, and professionals

These rights remind guardians that protection does not replace personhood. In fact, the Bill of Rights ensures that guardianship strengthens a person’s safety while preserving their freedom, voice, and identity.

Why Self-Determination Matters

When individuals are included in their own care:

• Their confidence increases
• Their well-being improves
• Their sense of identity remains strong
• Their trust in the guardianship process grows

Most importantly, self-determination reinforces what every person deserves:
to feel seen, heard, and respected.

Our Commitment to Self-Determination

At Nevada Guardian Services, self-determination shapes every decision we make. We believe that guardianship is most effective when it is collaborative, compassionate, and centered on the individual’s wishes and values.

We listen first, act with intention, and support each person in living a life that reflects their dignity, history, and hopes.

To explore our guardianship approach and how we support self-determination at every stage, visit nevadaguardianservices.com/.