Self-Care Theory

Self-Care Theory, developed by Dorothea Orem, emphasizes the importance of individuals taking active steps to maintain their health and well-being. It suggests that people can perform activities like proper nutrition, hygiene, rest, and seeking medical help to stay healthy or recover from illness. When individuals cannot fully care for themselves, support from healthcare providers or caregivers helps bridge the gap. The theory highlights that self-care is essential for autonomy and quality of life, and healthcare professionals aim to assess and assist with these self-care needs to promote optimal health outcomes.