To support a client's independence in personal care, you should encourage them to:

Encouraging a client to do as much as they can in personal care is essential for fostering their independence and self-esteem. This approach allows clients to maintain their dignity and actively participate in their own care, which is critical in promoting their autonomy.

When clients engage in personal care tasks, they gain a sense of accomplishment and control over their lives. This empowerment can enhance their overall well-being and mental health. Furthermore, assisting them to perform tasks they are capable of helps to keep their skills sharp and may even encourage physical mobility and cognitive engagement.

Encouraging independence through personal care also prepares clients to face daily challenges with confidence, ultimately supporting their ability to live as independently as possible. This philosophy is aligned with person-centered care, which emphasizes respect for the client's preferences and needs while promoting autonomy.

In contrast, encouraging clients to try big, new things every day may lead to feelings of frustration or inadequacy if they struggle with tasks that are beyond their current abilities. Not using assistive devices could prevent clients from performing personal care tasks that they might otherwise manage with the right support. Finally, relying on assistance completely can diminish a client’s sense of independence and may lead to decreased motivation to participate in their own care.