The Care© Approach to Enabling Independence

Abstract

In piloting an occupational therapy service in Hampshire Social Services' homes for elderly people, it became evident that the occupational therapy philosophy of enabling independence was perceived by the staff of the homes to be contrary to their role as carers. An approach was required which could demonstrate that the concept of care was not incompatible with that of independence and the CARE© approach was developed. This uses a mnemonic device to show that there are four factors that combine to result in the act of caring: Communicating, Assisting, Rehabilitating and Empathising. When all four factors are present, independence is promoted by enabling the elderly person to function to his/her maximum potential. The CARE approach is currently being used in Hampshire Social Services' homes for elderly people in training programmes for staff. The approach is appropriate to anyone who is involved in caring for others. It is used as a framework that assists the carer to make the transition to the role of an enabler.