What does "scaffolded support" mean in relation to assisting residents?

Scaffolded support refers to the approach of providing assistance that is tailored to match the current abilities of the resident. This means that as a resident becomes more capable or confident in a specific task or activity, the level of support provided can be gradually reduced. This method encourages independence, allowing residents to gain skills and confidence in their abilities over time.

For example, if a resident initially needs help with personal care tasks, a caregiver might provide hands-on assistance while also encouraging the resident to participate actively. As the resident improves in their ability to perform these tasks, the caregiver would offer less assistance, thus creating a learning environment where the resident can thrive and develop their skills.

By adjusting the level of support based on the individual resident's needs, this approach fosters a sense of autonomy, making it easier for individuals to manage tasks on their own. In contrast, providing the same level of assistance at all times would not account for the resident's growth or changing capabilities and could hinder their independence.