Reference no: EM133741044

Disability Support

You work for a disability support agency. You have been tasked with creating a service care plan for the following client:

Dima is 20 yrs old, is from the Middle East. She has been diagnosed with autism spectrum disorder. She lives at home with her mother and father who speak fluent English, she has strong cultural connections within her church and her extended support network is her family (uncle, aunty and cousins) who share the same property as her next door. She is extremely dependant on her mother. She does not work.

She would like to get her driver's licence. Your agency would like you to support her to be more involved in the community, develop stronger connections to her peers within programs and teach life skills as well as aiming towards getting license. The client is participating in a program at the service and recently had a male peer from a program hugging her, which made both her and her mother uncomfortable. They explain to you that this is due to their cultural beliefs and find it very disrespectful

Creating a service care plan for Dima involves addressing her needs and issues in a culturally sensitive and respectful manner. Here are the steps to take:

1. Cultural Sensitivity Training: The first step is to ensure that all staff members and peers in the program are aware of Dima's cultural beliefs and sensitivities. This can be done through cultural sensitivity training sessions. The training should be conducted by a professional who is knowledgeable about Middle Eastern culture and customs. This should be done as soon as possible to prevent any further discomfort for Dima and her family.
2. Autism Spectrum Disorder Support: Dima's autism spectrum disorder diagnosis means she may need additional support in social situations and learning new skills. A specialist in autism support should be involved in her care plan. They can provide strategies and techniques to help Dima interact with her peers and learn life skills. This should be an ongoing process.
3. Community Involvement: To help Dima become more involved in the community, a support worker can accompany her to local events or activities. This could include church events, community gatherings, or local clubs that align with her interests. This should be done on a regular basis, such as once a week.
4. Peer Connection: To help Dima develop stronger connections with her peers, consider setting up a buddy system within the program. This would pair Dima with a peer who shares similar interests. The buddy can help Dima navigate social situations and provide companionship. This should be implemented as soon as a suitable buddy is identified.
5. Life Skills Training: To help Dima learn life skills, a life skills coach or occupational therapist can be involved. They can work with Dima on skills such as cooking, cleaning, budgeting, and other tasks necessary for independent living. This should be an ongoing process, with regular sessions scheduled.
6. Driving Lessons: To support Dima in getting her driver's license, a driving instructor who is experienced in teaching individuals with autism should be involved. They can provide tailored lessons that take into account Dima's unique needs. This should be done at a pace that Dima is comfortable with.
7. Family Support: As Dima is very dependent on her mother, it's important to involve her family in her care plan. Regular meetings should be scheduled with her family to discuss Dima's progress and any concerns they may have. This should be done on a regular basis, such as once a month.

Reason/s for these decisions (how this will address the person's socio-cultural issues and other needs)