Personal boundaries are the physical, emotional, and mental limits we set to protect our well-being and define how we want to be treated by others.
Tips & Links
For people living with health condition(s) and/or a disability, physical assessments, mental health questions, procedures, and tests can sometimes violate personal boundaries or cause discomfort. Be aware that people who need personal care support may be more vulnerable to invasion of their privacy because they often rely on others for physical, emotional, and medical assistance.
Things You Can Do
- Communicate your limits regarding physical touch, personal space, and privacy with health care professionals and caregivers.
- Inform health care providers if you feel uneasy or need adjustments during tests or exams, such as closing the door or curtains.
- Be in control of your personal health information and only share it with others you choose.
- Know that you can refuse a suggested treatment, test, or procedure.
- Speak up if something feels uncomfortable or unsafe. Have a trusted person, like a health advocate or care partner, to confide in.
- Assert your need for independence by expressing when you want to do something yourself.
More Information
- Learn more about privacy laws and your personal health information from Aide Canada.
- Learn about helping your care partners and caregivers set their own personal boundaries in assisting you from Family-Caregivers of BC.