Why does my CHSP provider encourage me to do some tasks myself?
Your CHSP provider may encourage you to do some tasks yourself because the program follows a wellness and reablement approach. The aim is to help you maintain your independence, confidence and abilities for as long as possible, rather than becoming dependent on support where it may not be necessary.
Key points
CHSP providers encourage independence where it is safe and appropriate.
The approach is intended to maintain confidence, strength and everyday abilities.
It does not mean support will be withheld if you genuinely need help.
The focus is often described as "doing with" rather than "doing for."
Maintaining existing abilities can be a successful outcome.
Many people are initially surprised when a CHSP provider encourages them to continue participating in certain tasks rather than simply doing everything for them.
This is not because the provider is unwilling to help. Instead, it reflects the core principles of the Commonwealth Home Support Program, which focus on helping older people remain independent and continue doing as much as possible for themselves.
The approach is often described as:
"Doing with you, rather than doing for you."
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01Guide sectionWhy is this important?
As people become less active, they can sometimes lose confidence, strength, mobility and everyday skills more quickly.
Even small reductions in activity may increase the risk of:
falls
reduced mobility
social isolation
loss of confidence
greater reliance on services in the future.
Continuing to participate in everyday activities can help maintain physical and mental wellbeing.
02Guide sectionWhat might this look like?
Examples may include:
helping you prepare part of a meal rather than preparing everything for you
encouraging you to walk safely to the letterbox instead of always collecting the mail for you
supporting you to complete some light household tasks if it is safe to do so
assisting you to shower independently with equipment or supervision where appropriate.
The level of participation will always depend on your individual circumstances and safety.
03Guide sectionDoes this mean I will not receive help?
No.
If you genuinely cannot complete a task safely, support should still be provided.
The provider should consider:
your health conditions
pain, fatigue or mobility limitations
cognitive impairment
your personal preferences and goals
any risks associated with completing the activity.
The goal is not to make life harder. The goal is to help you maintain or improve independence where possible.
04Guide sectionWhat if I do not agree?
It is important to have a conversation with your provider.
Ask questions such as:
Why are you encouraging this approach?
What benefits do you expect?
Is this activity safe for me?
Are there other ways I can remain independent?
Sometimes there may be misunderstandings about what support is available or what outcomes are realistic.
05Guide sectionWhat if I have dementia or a progressive condition?
For people living with dementia, Parkinson's disease or other progressive illnesses, maintaining current abilities may be the main goal.
Success does not always mean improvement.
Sometimes the aim is simply to:
slow decline
maintain routines
preserve confidence
maximise quality of life.
06Guide sectionWhat should I do next?
Talk openly with your provider about your goals and concerns.
Ask:
Which activities should I continue doing myself?
Which activities are no longer safe?
Are there therapies, exercises or equipment that could help me remain independent?
What outcomes are realistic for my situation?
Remember that your support plan should be based on your individual needs and preferences.
07Guide sectionHelpful Local Home Help resources
08Guide sectionCheck the official guidance
The CHSP Manual encourages providers to adopt a wellness and reablement approach that focuses on helping older people maximise their independence, maintain existing abilities and achieve personal goals.
Official guidance can be found here:
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