What is one of the objectives of a PCA when working with clients?

The primary objective of a Personal Care Assistant (PCA) when working with clients is to support them in achieving maximum independence. This approach emphasizes the importance of empowering clients to perform daily activities to the best of their abilities, which enhances their self-esteem and overall well-being. By fostering independence, PCAs help clients maintain their dignity and autonomy, allowing them to lead fulfilling lives despite any limitations they may face.

For instance, a PCA may assist a client with mobility or personal care tasks while encouraging them to participate as actively as possible. This could involve setting up adaptive equipment that allows the client to perform certain tasks independently or offering verbal prompts instead of doing everything for them.

This objective aligns with person-centered care, which focuses on the individual needs and preferences of clients, treating them with respect and promoting their ability to make choices in daily life. In contrast, focusing on strict schedules or routines, providing emotional counseling, or controlling social interactions does not align with the fundamental goal of promoting the client’s autonomy and independence.