What is ‘dignity of risk’?
The concept of ‘dignity of risk’ is to allow people with developmental disability to take certain risks to gain dignity, thus promoting their autonomy and self-determination. It should be considered when:
- exploring least restrictive options (eg healthcare interventions) for the person
- developing a person-centred care plan with the person and their carers and family.
Dignity of risk should be considered part of duty of care, which is to uphold the rights of a person as well as prevent harm. Both principles need to be considered with regard to health care for a person with developmental disability.