Providing clear and useful information helps older people make informed choices. This helps them stay in control of their lives. Give clients knowledge to help them stay independent and motivated.
Why information matters
Older people have the right to make informed choices about their care. To do this, they need clear, reliable information. This reablement strategy focuses on providing that information so they can stay in control of their lives.
When people understand their options, they are more likely to feel motivated and confident to make decisions that support their goals and independence.
Information, reablement, and the Strengthened Aged Care Standards
Reablement is a key focus of the new Strengthened Aged Care Standards because it promotes independence and quality of life.
Providing information is central to this approach. It enables older people to make informed decisions, exercise choice, and remain active participants in their care.
New to reablement strategies? You can learn about the basics here.
What is providing information?
Providing information means giving older people knowledge about:
- Resources
- Services
- Support options
This helps them make informed decisions about their care and lifestyle choices. Providing information goes beyond sharing facts – it’s about enabling choice and independence.
What kind of information helps?
The most helpful information is practical and motivating. Share details that encourage independence and healthy ageing.
For example, you could share information about:
Ageing science and the impact of lifestyle choices
Research shows that older people can influence their quality of life through daily habits. Eating well and staying active, connected, and engaged all make a difference.
Meaningful lifestyle activities like gentle exercise and joining social groups have been shown to help older adults boost:
- Mood and mental health
- Memory and brain health
- Physical strength
Local services and activities
Promote exercise classes, community groups, and social activities to keep clients engaged in reablement.
Older people can get personalised advice about local options by completing LiveUp‘s free healthy ageing quiz.
Assistive technology (AT)
Suggest tools that could make daily tasks easier. This helps promote your clients’ safety and independence.
Learn more about recommending AT.
3 quick tips for providing information
These tips help keep care aligned with the Strengthened Aged Care Standards. Respect for each client’s identity is key to delivering personalised care that meets their goals.
1. Ask first
Find out what information your clients need and how they prefer to receive it.
2. Offer different formats for delivery
Give clients options for how information is delivered. Some options for sharing information include:
- Client care plan
- Conversations
- Written notes on your organisation’s letterhead, so they’re not accidentally thrown away
- Emails, text messages, or website links
- Handouts
- Webinars, podcasts, or smartphone apps
3. Tailor to individual needs
Don’t make assumptions about your clients’ digital skills. Many older people are tech-savvy.
That said, be mindful of specific needs like:
- Cognitive impairment
- English as a second language
- Vision or hearing impairments
- Speech and language difficulties
- Poor literacy
Takeaway
The right information, delivered in the right way, can be a powerful tool for independent living. Finding what works for your clients is key to all reablement strategies.
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