At the age of 18, individuals with intellectual and/or developmental disabilities (ID/DD) legally transition to adulthood. Many will be placed under full or limited guardianship at this time because they need ongoing support in navigating complex healthcare and financial systems, and because they are unable to make independent medical and dental decisions. There are 95,639 adults age 18 to 64 in Nevada1 with a cognitive or intellectual disability that may impact their ability to access healthcare. National data estimate that across the country, roughly 53% of adults with ID/DD are under limited or full guardianship. This makes it important that providers understand guardianship and its implications on medical decision-making and medical clearance. It is equally important for state public health leadership to ensure that guardians and potential guardians are educated, informed and aware of the importance of supporting individuals to make their own decisions and retain as much autonomy as possible.
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