What is one of the primary focuses of a PSW when assisting clients?

Promoting independence and autonomy is a fundamental aspect of a Personal Support Worker’s (PSW) role. This focus emphasizes the importance of empowering clients by supporting them in making their own choices, facilitating their ability to perform daily activities as much as they are able, and respecting their personal preferences. By fostering independence, PSWs help enhance the clients' quality of life, boost their self-esteem, and contribute to their overall well-being.

This approach aligns with person-centered care, which is essential in the field of support work. It ensures that clients feel respected and valued, and it can lead to better health outcomes as individuals are more likely to engage in their care when they have control over their actions and decisions. As a result, independence and autonomy are not just beneficial for clients, but they are also important for creating a positive and supportive environment where clients can thrive.

In contrast, focusing solely on strict adherence to rules, increasing the workload of healthcare professionals, or prioritizing documentation can detract from the quality of care provided and may undermine the relationship between PSWs and their clients. These other approaches could hinder client engagement and negatively impact their sense of autonomy, which is why promoting independence remains the primary focus of a PSW.