This is a personalized service provided by a person to someone who is in a situation of dependence, so that they can perform every day tasks according to their specific needs. The personal assistant conducts their duties based on criteria and indications previously agreed upon in a contract.
Some countries already include this as part of their social assistance, i.e. state services provided to improve people’s lives (Arnau, Rodríguez, & Romañach).
This concept is closely tied to independent living, which is one of the demands of people and organizations who mobilize for their right to live freely and exercise their moral autonomy beyond their physical autonomy. As a result, they look to have personal assistance recognized as a fundamental right to ensure the full development of their lives.
References:
Real Patronato sobre Discapacidad. (2019). Guía de estilo sobre discapacidad para profesionales de los medios de comunicación. Madrid: Real Patronato sobre Discapacidad. P. 92.
Photo credit: Disabled and here