You might not think that there is a connection between Martin Luther King, Jr. and home care, but there is. Today, as we pause to remember the many contributions of this civil rights icon, we also consider the link between the message he spread and individuals who require some level of home care service.
While Dr. King marched to end racism, he spoke about judging people for their character rather than the color of their skin. In other words, he hoped for a world in which people are seen for what's inside them and not their physical appearance. Now, thinking about it like that, what is one thing that many of us are guilty of when it comes to seeing an elderly person using a walker or a disabled person using a wheelchair? We might assume that they can’t do basic things like take care of themselves or make their own decisions. We make certain assumptions about them based upon their age and physical traits; yet, they are people with hopes and goals they may want to fulfill or accomplish in their life. They may wish to see certain sights, visit certain people, or try certain activities.
When people require home care services, all too often it’s easy to think that we know what’s best for them. We have a tendency to tell them what we would do, or we make decisions for them, rather than with them. Respect is an important component of any relationship and when you prejudge a client based upon his or her appearance, you’re making the very mistake that Dr. King fought against.
On this Martin Luther King Day, the agency stresses the importance of considering clients’ feelings and approaching each one with an open mind.