Reablement

Reablement focusses on helping older people regain, maintain, or improve their physical, cognitive, and social functioning after illness, injury, or decline. Rather than simply providing assistance, reablement encourages residents to actively participate in daily activities, build independence, and achieve personal goals. It is strengths-based, tailored to the individual, and often involves multidisciplinary support, including physiotherapy, occupational therapy, and social engagement.

Reablement is important in aged care because it promotes independence, confidence, and quality of life, reducing the risk of functional decline and hospital readmissions. By focusing on what residents can do rather than what they cannot, it fosters dignity, purpose, and self-esteem. It also supports staff to provide care that is person-centred and goal-oriented, while enabling residents to maintain connections with their community, family, and cultural practices. Overall, reablement enhances wellbeing, reduces long-term care needs, and aligns with best-practice care.