Paternalism involves interference with an individ- ual’s liberty of action by making decisions about what is in the best interest of the older person (Mappes & DeGrazia, 2006). Paternalism is typically justified by referring to the welfare, good, happiness, needs, interests or values of the older person. Paternalism usually emerges when an older individual is judged unable to make sound decisions. Unfortunately, a paternalistic approach is sometimes used even when there is no evidence that an older person’s ability to make his/her own deci- sions is compromised.