Prompting vs Hands-On Daily Living Support
Two people can need support with the same task but need very different levels of assistance. One may need a reminder; another may need direct physical help.
Prompting and set-up support
Prompting can include reminders, breaking a task into steps, setting out items, checking understanding or helping the participant get started. This can be useful when the goal is to preserve or build independence.
Supervision may involve staying nearby for safety or confidence while the participant completes most of the task themselves.
Hands-on assistance
Hands-on support means the worker directly assists with the task. This may be needed for personal care, mobility-related routines or other activities where the participant cannot safely or practically complete the task without physical assistance.
The level of physical help should match the participant’s needs and documented arrangements, not be greater than necessary.
Support levels can vary
A participant may need prompting for one task and hands-on help for another. Their needs can also change depending on fatigue, health, environment or the complexity of the activity.
Good support planning describes the level of assistance required for each important routine so workers can be consistent without taking away choice or independence.
Helpful related pages
Continue with the guide or service page that best matches the support question you are working through.
Official NDIS information used for this guide
NDIS rules and terminology can change. These official pages are useful for checking the latest position.
Important: This AIC Services guide is general information, not an NDIS funding decision, clinical advice or legal advice. Participants should check their current plan and official NDIS information for their circumstances.
Frequently asked questions
Is prompting still NDIS support?
It can be. Support workers may help participants develop skills and work towards goals, and assistance does not always need to be hands-on.
Can the level of help change during a shift?
Yes. Different tasks may require different levels of assistance, provided the support remains within the participant’s plan, agreed arrangements and safe work practices.
Why avoid doing everything for the participant?
Where it is safe and appropriate, allowing the participant to do what they can helps preserve choice, confidence and independence.
Contact AIC Services
AIC Services
54 Main Road
Moonah, TAS 7009
Phone:
1300 023 456
Email:
support@aicservices.com.au
Office Hours:
Monday to Friday: 9:00 AM to 5:00 PM
54 Main Road, Moonah TAS 7009
To reduce unnecessary third-party requests, interactive mapping is available from our Contact page and Moonah office page.
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