What does fading mean in the context of supported employment?

What does fading mean in the context of supported employment?

• A. Gradually reducing the level of structured supports as the worker gains independence and stability
• B. Immediately removing all supports
• C. Increasing the frequency of supervision
• D. Maintaining the same level of supports indefinitely

Answer: (A)

Fading means gradually reducing the level of structured supports as the worker gains independence and stability, with the goal of sustained, autonomous performance on the job. This approach allows skills to be practiced with support when needed and then progressively handed over as competence and confidence grow, helping the worker function more independently in the long term. Immediate removal of supports can jeopardize safety and progress; increasing supervision keeps the worker reliant on oversight; maintaining the same level indefinitely prevents growth and independence.

Fading means gradually reducing the level of structured supports as the worker gains independence and stability, with the goal of sustained, autonomous performance on the job. This approach allows skills to be practiced with support when needed and then progressively handed over as competence and confidence grow, helping the worker function more independently in the long term. Immediate removal of supports can jeopardize safety and progress; increasing supervision keeps the worker reliant on oversight; maintaining the same level indefinitely prevents growth and independence.