Building capacity means helping people improve their abilities. You can do this by supporting them to participate in everyday activities. Even small tasks can become chances to grow.
Getting older doesn’t have to mean declining and depending more on others. Older people can continue learning, growing, and living in ways that matter to them.
Reablement is about helping clients regain and improve independence, so they can live how they want. Building capacity is a big part of that. On this page, you’ll learn what this reablement strategy is all about and how you can put it into action.
New to reablement strategies? You can learn about the basics here.
What is building capacity?
Building capacity means helping your clients improve what they can do. It’s about improving the skills they need to be independent.
This involves helping older people to regain or strengthen their:
- Physical abilities – like balance, strength, and flexibility
- Brain health – such as memory, focus, and problem-solving
- Mental health and wellbeing – including confidence and coping with change
- Social skills – like keeping relationships and meeting new people
Build capacity with everyday opportunities
Exercise can be great for building abilities, but it’s not the only way. Daily activities like cooking, cleaning, and getting coffee with friends help older people to:
- Move their bodies
- Engage their minds
- Overcome problems
- Stay connected with meaningful parts of their life
It’s important not to do everything for clients, as this takes away their opportunity to build capacity by doing tasks for themselves.
Small, everyday moments are opportunities for independence, confidence, and personal growth.
Participation matters
Becoming less active and losing independence is not inevitable with age.
Older people may reduce their activity levels because of:
- An injury or illness
- Well-meaning helpers who do everything for them
These experiences can lead to lost confidence, anxiety, and less activity.
The good news? This can often be reversed with activities that build capacity and encourage participation.
You can learn more about the benefits of doing ‘with’ and not ‘for’ with our eLearning module: Everything you do for me, you take from me.
Tips for practice
You can help older people build capacity by:
- Working alongside them during tasks until they’re confident enough to do them alone
- Teaching them new skills that align with their values, such as using social media to connect with their grandchildren
- Encouraging them to improve their strength, balance, and fitness through daily activities or by referring them to other professionals for additional support
Takeaway
Building capacity helps older people rediscover their strengths and take steps toward greater independence and confidence.
Ready to learn more? Read about the next reablement strategy: adapt the environment.
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