Factors affecting the roles of parents and carers 

Characteristics of the dependant: (A.S.S)

The relationship between the dependant and care provider may be affected by age, special needs, skills, The extent to which parents and carers fulfil their roles can vary over the lifespan of the dependant. 

The age of the dependant will influence the roles of the parents and carers. Eg when a dependant is young, parents and carers must satisfy their specific needs. Discuss 

As the dependant gets older, they may develop more independence and may be able to fulfil some of their own needs such as health. At this time parents/carers may spend more time promoting wellbeing through positive relationships with others for example.

The older the dependant, the greater the need for support to develop independence and sense of identity. An older dependant may push boundaries and limits, and it is important that building a positive relationship remains a focus. Watch Edrolo example 

Acquiring skills and capabilities is the learning of tasks that will enable the dependant to fulfil some of their own needs and promote their own wellbeing. When a dependant lacks skills and capabilities, parents and carers will have to satisfy all needs, promote wellbeing and work on maintaining open lines of communication to build positive relationships.  Eg: a low functioning dependant may need to be taught basic life skills such as cooking and shopping, whereas high functioning dependants may work on resiliency or promoting wellbeing aspects of the individual eg; coping mechanisms. The parent/carer may teach the child to drive, or manners, discipline, homework, goal setting or chores etc Watch Edrolo for understanding.

When the dependant has special needs has an illness or injury, age will not define the skills and capabilities that they have acquired. Depending on the special need, a dependant (low functioning) may fully rely on the parent or carer to promote their wellbeing (toileting, bathing, social needs). For those with a special need who have some skills and capabilities, they may just need support in daily tasks through assistance. Those with gifted and talented dependants may need to challenge, or provide higher learning opportunities. Watch Edrolo for explanation.