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Unit 207: Understanding Person-Centred Approaches in Adult Social Care Settings
In the realm of adult social care settings, comprehending and implementing person-centred approaches is of utmost importance to ensure the well-being and individuality of those under our care. This unit delves into the principles and methods that underpin these approaches, emphasizing the value of personal involvement and tailored support.
Outcome 1: Grasping Person-Centred Values for Care and Support
1.1 Exploring Person-Centred Values: Person-centred values constitute the foundation of empowering the individuals we support. This means actively involving and incorporating them in every facet of their care and support journey. For instance, their needs, assessments, care planning, and service delivery should all be aligned with their preferences and aspirations.
1.2 Embedding Person-Centred Values: The significance of embedding person-centred values within care practices cannot be overstated. The core of person-centred care revolves around placing individuals at the heart of daily activities and including them and their families in the formulation and maintenance of care plans. Beyond addressing physical needs, the aim is to nurture their sense of identity and personhood. Active listening is crucial, enabling us to comprehend the service user’s needs, wishes, and preferences even in challenging circumstances.
1.3 Embracing Informed Risk-Taking: Enabling individuals to make informed decisions and take calculated risks is integral to person-centred care. It is imperative to ensure that apprehensions about risk-taking do not hinder a person’s autonomy and desired way of life. By conducting thorough risk assessments, we can determine the feasibility of activities that were once considered unacceptable, thus empowering individuals to pursue their preferences.
1.4 Individual Care Plans: A key aspect of person-centred care is the formulation of individualized care plans. These plans contribute to a holistic approach by encompassing:
The individual’s perspective on their needs and circumstances.
Priorities and preferences that hold significance to the individual.
Identification of strengths, interests, likes, and dislikes.
The preferred method of meeting the individual’s needs.
Acknowledgment of people who are integral to the individual’s life and support network.
Outcome 2: Implementing a Person-Centred Approach
2.1 Uncovering Individual Histories and Preferences: One of the fundamental steps in implementing a person-centred approach is to gain a comprehensive understanding of an individual’s history, preferences, wishes, and needs. This can be achieved through meaningful conversations, where individuals articulate how they envision their way of life, daily routines, and the support they require.
2.2 Adapting Communication and Interaction: Communication lies at the heart of person-centred care. It is essential to tailor our communication style and interactions to match the individual’s preferences. This may involve adjusting our tone, pace, and mode of communication to foster understanding and engagement.
2.3 Collaborative Decision-Making: In a person-centred approach, decisions are collaborative endeavors. By involving individuals, their families, and relevant professionals, we ensure that choices are made collectively, reflecting the individual’s desires, goals, and best interests.
2.4 Continuous Review and Adaptation: Person-centred care is an ongoing process. Regularly reviewing care plans, goals, and outcomes ensures that the support provided remains aligned with the individual’s evolving needs and aspirations. Flexibility and adaptability are key in maintaining the individual’s autonomy and quality of life.
In conclusion, embracing person-centred values and approaches within adult social care settings is a dynamic and holistic process that requires active involvement, empathy, and a commitment to nurturing individuality. By fostering a culture of respect, choice, and informed decision-making, we empower those under our care to lead fulfilling and meaningful lives.
Works Cited
Kitwood, Tom. Person-Centred Dementia Care: A Positive Approach. London: Jessica Kingsley Publishers, 1997. Print.
Manthorpe, Jill, and Karen Martin. Person-Centred Approaches in Dementia Care: Making it Happen. London: Jessica Kingsley Publishers, 2011. Print.
National Institute for Health and Care Excellence (NICE). Dementia: Supporting People with Dementia and Their Carers in Adult Social Care. London: NICE, 2019. Web. https://www.nice.org.uk/guidance/ng130
