Understanding Executive Function and How its Dysfunction Might Impact Capacity

Cognitive skills that you use to manage everyday tasks – to plan, to focus attention, to remember instructions, to adapt to new situations, to problem solve and to juggle multiple tasks are all examples of executive function. How might impairment in executive functioning impact capacity, assessments under the Mental Capacity Act 2005, and the ability to take decisions?

For this webinar, Hannah Taylor was joined by Francesca Gardner, Barrister at 39 Essex Street Chambers, and Dr Catriona McIntosh, Consultant Clinical Neuropsychologist. 

Our speakers discussed key issues including:

• Executive Functioning, capacity and the Mental Capacity Act 2025
• What are Executive Functioning Impairments?
• An overview of the frontal lobe paradox and how impairments in these areas can impact on the ability to use and weigh information in capacity assessments
• A review of key case law involving Executive Functioning
• How to approach cases involving Executive Functioning