Demonstrate commitment to empowerment for people receiving support

Before we delve into this unit, it is important to first go back and look at the history and recent developments of ageing and disability which has evolved significantly over time, with changes in societal attitudes and medical advancements.

In the past, individuals with disabilities were often institutionalised and segregated from society, with limited access to education, employment, and community participation. Similarly, older people were often isolated and seen as a burden on their families and communities.

Similarly, there have been significant changes in the way ageing is viewed, with a greater emphasis on active ageing and the rights of older people to live independently and participate in their communities. Advances in medical technology and healthcare have also led to longer life expectancies and better quality of life for older people. However, challenges remain in ensuring that individuals with disabilities and older people have access to the support and services they need to live full and independent lives. There is a need for continued advocacy and policy development to address issues such as accessibility, social inclusion, and healthcare for these populations.

Some key historical events and recent developments in Australia include:

Early history

Prior to the 20th century, people with disabilities and older adults were often marginalised and excluded from society. Many were institutionalised or forced to rely on charity for support.

The Disability Discrimination Act (DDA) was introduced in 1992 to address discrimination against people with disabilities. This law protects people with disabilities from discrimination in areas such as employment, education, and access to services.

The National Disability Insurance Scheme (NDIS) was launched in 2013 to provide greater support for people with disabilities. The NDIS is a national system that provides funding for disability-related support and services.

The Age Discrimination Act was introduced in 2004 to address discrimination against older adults. This law protects people from discrimination based on their age in areas such as employment, education, and access to services.

In 2018, the Australian government established a Royal Commission into Aged Care Quality and Safety. The commission was tasked with investigating the quality of care provided to older Australians, as well as the safety and quality of residential aged care services.

There has been a growing recognition in recent years of the importance of person-centered care in supporting people with disabilities and older adults. Person-centered care involves tailoring care and support to meet the individual needs and preferences of each person.

Reflecting on personal values and attitudes regarding disability and ageing involves examining your own beliefs, biases, and assumptions about these topics. It involves taking the time to consider how your personal experiences, cultural background, and socialisation have shaped your perceptions and understanding of disability and ageing.

Acknowledging the potential impact of your values and attitudes is important when providing support because it can affect how you interact with individuals who have disabilities or are ageing. For example, if you hold negative attitudes towards disability or ageing, it may affect your ability to provide empathetic and compassionate care.

By reflecting on your personal values and attitudes, you can become more aware of your biases and how they may influence your interactions with others. This awareness can help you provide better care and support that is respectful, person-centered, and sensitive to the needs of the individual. It can also help you identify areas where you may need to improve your knowledge or skills to provide effective support.

Enablement versus reablement

Enablement and reablement are two concepts that focus on promoting independence and improving the quality of life for individuals.

Enablement refers to the process of enabling or empowering an individual to take control of their life and make decisions that affect their health and well-being. This approach emphasises the strengths and abilities of the individual rather than their limitations and helps them to maintain or improve their level of functioning.

Reablement, is a short-term, goal-oriented approach that focuses on rehabilitating an individual's physical and cognitive abilities so that they can regain their independence and participate fully in their community. This approach is often used for individuals who have experienced a decline in their functioning due to an illness, injury, or surgery.

Reablement Example – An aged person

An aged person who has had a fall and is struggling to regain their mobility may benefit from an individualised exercise program designed to improve their strength and balance, as well as modifications to their home environment to reduce the risk of future falls. A therapist may work with the individual to set specific goals, such as being able to walk independently to the local shops or to participate in a community group and develop a plan to achieve those goals.

Reablement Example – Person with disability

A person with a disability who has had a recent illness or injury that has impacted their independence may benefit from a combination of physical therapy and occupational therapy to help the individual regain their physical and cognitive abilities. It may also involve the use of assistive technology, such as mobility aids or communication devices, to help the individual participate more fully in their daily life. The therapist may work with the individual to set specific goals, such as being able to return to work or to participate in a favourite hobby and develop a plan to achieve those goals.

Enablement Example – An aged person

An aged person who is still living independently in their own home may benefit assistance with shopping, meal preparation, and household chores, as well as social support to help the person stay connected with their community. The goal of these services is to enable the individual to maintain their independence and continue living in their own home for as long as possible.

Enablement Example – Person with disability

A person with a disability may benefit from enablement services that help them to participate more fully in their community. The services could include assistance with transportation, communication, and personal care, as well as support to help the person pursue their interests and goals. The goal of these services is to enable the individual to live a full and meaningful life, despite any limitations imposed by their disability. For example, an individual with a visual impairment may receive training on how to use assistive technology to read books, access the internet, or participate in online communities.

Watch

What is reablement in aged care?

A video that provides information about reablement and how home support workers use reablement in aged care.

You may also like to watch the next video titled: Enable, empower, aspire, and achieve.

Watch

A short video about empowering children and young people to aspire and achieve positive outcomes when they are provided with the tools and support required.

Institutionalised versus person-centred, self-directed model of support

Institutionalised care refers to a traditional model of care in which individuals are placed in a facility, such as a nursing home or hospital, and are provided with standardised care and routines. The focus is on meeting the basic needs of the individual, rather than on their individual preferences or desires. This model of care can be impersonal and may not fully meet the needs or desires of the individual.

In contrast, a person-centered, self-directed model of support emphasises the individual's right to choose and control their own care and support. This approach recognises that each person is unique and has their own preferences, desires, and goals, and should be treated as an active participant in their own care. The focus is on promoting the individual's autonomy and independence, and providing support that is tailored to their individual needs and preferences.

This model of care empowers individuals to take an active role in their own care and support, allowing them to make decisions about the services and supports they receive, and to participate fully in their communities. It can lead to increased satisfaction and better outcomes for the individual, as they are able to receive support that is aligned with their own values and preferences.

Social constructs of disability and ageing and the impact of own attitudes on working with people with disabilities

In Australia, the social constructs of disability and aging are shaped by societal perceptions, attitudes, and beliefs about these populations. These social constructs influence how disability and aging are understood, experienced, and responded to in various contexts, including in the workplace and in interactions with people with disabilities. Additionally, an individual's own attitudes can significantly impact their ability to work effectively with people with disabilities in Australia.

Social constructs of disability may often be viewed as a social construct, meaning that it is not solely a medical or individual issue, but rather a product of social and environmental factors. In Australia, disability is generally recognised as a diverse and dynamic aspect of human diversity, and the understanding of disability has evolved from a medical model that focuses on impairments to a social model that emphasises the impact of societal barriers and discrimination. However, negative attitudes, stigma, and misconceptions about disability may still exist in some contexts, which can result in exclusion, marginalisation, and discrimination against people with disabilities.

Social constructs of aging is also a social construct, shaped by cultural, societal, and contextual factors. In Australia, aging is generally viewed as a natural part of life, and older adults are recognised as valuable members of society with unique strengths, experiences, and contributions. However, negative stereotypes and ageism may persist in some contexts, leading to discrimination, prejudice, and limited opportunities for older adults.

Impact of own attitudes including those of service providers and caregivers, can greatly impact their ability to work effectively with people with disabilities in Australia. Attitudes of empathy, respect, and inclusivity can promote positive interactions and foster meaningful relationships. Conversely, negative attitudes such as pity, fear, or condescension can reinforce stereotypes, create barriers, and perpetuate discrimination.

It is essential for individuals working with people with disabilities to be aware of their own attitudes and beliefs, and to strive for an inclusive and respectful approach. This includes recognising and challenging any biases or misconceptions they may hold, actively promoting the rights and dignity of people with disabilities and fostering an inclusive and empowering environment that values diversity and promotes equal opportunities for all individuals, regardless of age or disability status. Professional development, training, and education can play a crucial role in promoting positive attitudes and enhancing the quality of care and support provided to people with disabilities in Australia.

Structural and systemic power refer to the ways in which power is embedded in social systems, institutions, and structures, which can shape and influence individuals and groups' ability to access resources, opportunities, and decision-making processes. Obstacles to empowerment are barriers or challenges that can limit or hinder individuals or groups from gaining power, agency, and control over their lives and circumstances.

As support workers it is crucial to be able to adjust and address your approach when working with individuals who may be impacted by barriers or obstacles to empowerment. Some examples are:

Category	Description
Social	Promote inclusivity, diversity, and equal opportunities for all individuals and groups. Create safe and supportive spaces where people can express themselves, participate in decision-making processes, and have their voices heard. Foster positive social connections and networks that promote mutual support, collaboration, and community engagement.
Physical	Ensure access to quality healthcare, nutrition, and physical well-being. Provide opportunities for physical activity, sports, and recreation. Promote body positivity and healthy body image. Advocate for accessibility and accommodations for individuals with disabilities to enable their full participation in all aspects of life.
Emotional	Promote emotional intelligence, self-awareness, and self-care. Provide mental health resources and support. Promote positive coping skills and resilience-building strategies. Create safe spaces for emotional expression and validation and reduce stigma around mental health challenges.
Stigma	Challenge and combat stigma and discrimination based on race, gender, sexual orientation, religion, disability, or other characteristics. Promote education, awareness, and understanding of diverse identities and experiences. Foster inclusive and accepting environments where all individuals are treated with dignity and respect.
Ageism	Promote intergenerational connections and mutual respect between different age groups. Create opportunities for older adults to actively participate in society, including employment, volunteering, and community engagement. Challenge ageist stereotypes and promote positive attitudes towards aging.
Cultural	Celebrate and respect diverse cultural identities and practices. Promote cultural exchange, understanding, and inclusion. Provide opportunities for individuals and groups to express their cultural heritage and promote cultural preservation. Foster cross-cultural dialogue, empathy, and mutual respect.
Economic	Advocate for economic policies and practices that promote equity and social justice. Provide access to education, vocational training, and skill development opportunities. Foster entrepreneurship and economic independence.