Key Takeaways
- Redirection techniques for disability support help individuals manage distress and anxiety through empathetic and engaging strategies.
- Quad Care focuses on person-centred care and provides staff with specialised training in redirection and behaviour support.
- Techniques include acknowledgment, humour, distraction, reminiscence, inclusive questioning, and sensory engagement.
- Clients benefit from tailored support that respects their preferences and promotes positive outcomes.
- As an NDIS registered provider, Quad Care delivers quality, compliant support across Queensland.
Estimated reading time: 4 minutes
What Are Redirection Techniques?
Redirection techniques are practical strategies used by support workers and allied health professionals to help individuals manage distress, anxiety, or challenging behaviours. At Quad Care, we believe that redirection is not just for people with dementia or children with autism—it’s a universal tool that supports anyone experiencing overwhelm, anxiety, or confusion, whether at home, in the community, or during day to day life transitions.
Why Redirection Matters at Quad Care
As a leading NDIS provider in Queensland, Quad Care is committed to delivering high-quality, person-centred disability support. Our team is trained in evidence-based redirection and reorientation techniques, ensuring every client receives compassionate, respectful, and effective care. These techniques are embedded in our daily practice, supporting positive outcomes for people living with dementia, autism, acquired brain injury, and other complex needs.
Key Redirection Techniques Used by Quad Care
1. Acknowledgment and Normalisation
The first step in supporting someone who is overwhelmed or disoriented is to acknowledge their feelings. Our staff use empathetic language to validate emotions: “Are you feeling a bit all over the shop? That’s a normal way to feel—lots of us do at times.” This approach helps clients feel seen and understood, reducing anxiety and building trust.
2. Humour
Humour is a powerful tool for breaking tension and shifting focus. Whether it’s a light-hearted joke or a shared laugh, humour can quickly change the mood and help clients re-engage with their environment in a positive way.
3. “Look at That!” and “What’s That?”
These techniques use distraction and curiosity to redirect attention. By focusing on a familiar object, a favourite photo, or something interesting in the environment, our support workers help clients move away from distress and towards a more comfortable state. This can be especially effective when supporting someone to transition safely, such as moving from one room to another or preparing for a meal.
4. “Remember!?” and “Who’s That!?”
Reminiscence is a gentle way to reorient and uplift. Our team might prompt a client to recall a happy memory or recognise a familiar face, always taking care to match the approach to the person’s age, capacity, and preferences. This not only distracts from distress but also fosters connection and joy.
5. “Are We?” and “Can You…?”
Inclusive questions like “Are we…?” or “Can you help me with…?” invite clients to participate in the present moment and contribute to their own care. This empowers individuals, reinforces their strengths, and gently redirects focus to positive, achievable actions.
6. “Do You Hear/See That?” and Storytelling
Engaging the senses or sharing a story can transport someone out of a stressful mindset. Our staff use creativity and sensitivity to guide clients into a calmer, more enjoyable experience, always reading the room and adapting to individual needs.
Why Choose Quad Care for Disability Support?
- Specialised Training: Our staff receive ongoing training in redirection, reorientation, and positive behaviour support.
- Person-Centred Care: Every strategy is tailored to the individual, respecting their preferences, history, and goals.
- Holistic Support: We work with clients, families, and allied health professionals to create safe, supportive environments at home, in schools, and in the community.
- NDIS Registered: As a trusted NDIS provider, we deliver quality, compliant services across Queensland.
Frequently Asked Questions
What conditions can benefit from redirection techniques?
Redirection is effective for people living with dementia, autism, intellectual disability, acquired brain injury, and anyone experiencing anxiety or distress.
Are Quad Care staff trained in these techniques?
Yes, all staff receive comprehensive training in redirection, reorientation, and behaviour support strategies specific to the client that needs the support.
How do I access Quad Care’s services?
Contact us via our website or call (07) 5391 1291 to discuss your needs and arrange a personalised support plan.
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