In the realm of caregiving, the term “care” is commonly used to describe the act of helping someone with their daily needs, encompassing personal care, administering healthcare, ensuring proper nutrition and hydration, and keeping them safe. It represents the bare minimum of what should be expected and deemed acceptable – a standard of service that should be taken for granted when selecting a caregiving arrangement. However, regrettably, this is not always the reality, as standards of care can sometimes fall below what parents would consider the minimum requirement.
Let’s consider a simple scenario of caring for someone. Picture this: a Carer asks, “Would you like a cup of tea?” and the individual responds, “Yes.” The Carer then proceeds to make and serve the person a cup of tea. At first glance, this might seem like good care, but there’s a crucial question to ponder: What role does the individual play in this task?
Supporting Someone: Elevating the Standard of Care
Recognising that “caring for someone” represents the minimum standard, we now delve into the concept of “supporting someone,” which takes caregiving to the next level. It involves empowering individuals to take greater control over even the smallest aspects of their lives – things that most of us take for granted. At its core, supporting someone means viewing every “care need” as an opportunity to assist the individual in making choices, developing skills, and becoming more actively involved in shaping their own outcomes. This should be an ongoing, progressive process, aiming to enable the individual to lead a more fulfilled life.
Expanding on the earlier example, supporting someone would entail asking, “Would you like a cup of tea?” to which the individual replies, “Yes.” The Carer now takes an extra step by supporting the person in performing various tasks associated with making the tea. This might involve guiding them to put the tea bag in the cup, fill the kettle, stir the tea with a spoon, and add milk – all to the extent of their abilities.
By shifting the focus from simply providing care to actively supporting individuals, we foster their independence and boost their sense of accomplishment. Rather than assuming they are incapable, we recognise their potential and work collaboratively to nurture it. This shift in approach not only benefits the individual being cared for but also enriches the lives of Carers themselves, who find fulfilment in helping others achieve greater self-reliance and happiness.
Moreover, the concept of “supporting someone” extends beyond physical tasks; it encompasses emotional and psychological support as well. It means being attentive to their feelings, encouraging them to express their desires, and offering a listening ear when needed. True support is a holistic approach that addresses all aspects of an individual’s well-being.
In the context of care services, it is vital for providers to embrace the philosophy of supporting someone. This requires a commitment to ongoing training and development of Carers, ensuring they possess the skills and mindset to facilitate empowerment and autonomy among those they care for. Ultimately, the goal is to create an environment where individuals can thrive, feel valued, and actively participate in shaping their lives.
In conclusion, while “caring for someone” sets the foundation, “supporting someone” elevates the standard of care, allowing individuals to lead more meaningful and self-directed lives. By adopting this approach, we not only meet the needs of those we care for but also nurture a society that values empowerment, dignity, and inclusivity for all. Let us strive to embrace the power of genuine support and create a world where everyone’s potential can flourish.
