The concept of 'least intrusive' aims to maximize what?

The concept of 'least intrusive' is integral to guardianship practices as it emphasizes giving individuals as much autonomy as possible while still providing necessary support. This approach recognizes that individuals, even if they may require assistance due to various circumstances, should retain their rights and freedoms to make personal choices whenever feasible.

By prioritizing the ward's autonomy with minimal interference, guardians can implement supports in a way that acknowledges and respects personal preferences, fostering independence. This is critical in establishing a supportive environment where individuals are empowered to participate in decisions about their lives, thus enhancing their quality of life.

This principle goes against the idea of excessively controlling or limiting a person's freedoms, which could lead to potential abuses of guardianship. It also doesn’t focus on maximizing the guardian’s control or exclusively fulfilling legal obligations, but rather on balancing support with respect for the individual’s rights and self-determination. Thus, the 'least intrusive' concept aims to maximize the ward's autonomy through minimal interference, aligning with best practices in guardianship that promote dignity and respect for those under care.