Self-Care Deficit Theory

The Self-Care Deficit Theory, developed by Dorothea Orem, explains that individuals can maintain their health and well-being through self-care activities like eating, bathing, and managing health conditions. When a person is unable to meet these needs—due to illness, injury, or age-related limitations—they experience a “self-care deficit.” Nursing steps in to support or provide care until the person can resume taking care of themselves. The goal is to help individuals achieve the highest level of independence possible in managing their health.