Which role is NOT typically taken by a direct support professional in personal care support?

A direct support professional (DSP) primarily focuses on providing assistance and support to individuals with disabilities to help them achieve greater independence and quality of life. In terms of personal care support, the roles of assisting, teaching, and performing are all central to a DSP's responsibilities.

Assisting refers to providing hands-on help with personal care tasks, such as grooming, bathing, and dressing, which is a core function of a DSP. Teaching involves instructing clients on self-care techniques and promoting skills that enable them to take care of themselves over time. Performing relates to carrying out necessary activities or tasks on behalf of the client when they cannot do so themselves.

In contrast, the role that does not typically align with the responsibilities of a DSP is deciding. DSPs are meant to support clients in making their own choices and decisions rather than making decisions on behalf of the clients. Empowering individuals to be involved in their own care and decision-making processes is a fundamental aspect of the role of a DSP, emphasizing the importance of client autonomy and self-determination. Therefore, the role of deciding does not fit with the primary responsibilities expected of a direct support professional in personal care support.