7.6a Demonstrate that they can support the active participation of individuals in their care

This guide will help you answer The Care Certificate Standard 7.6a Demonstrate that they can support the active participation of individuals in their care.

Active participation involves empowering individuals to take an active role in their own care. It ensures the individuals’ voices are heard, their choices are respected, and their preferences are taken into account. For carers, this is essential not only in delivering effective care but also in enabling independence and dignity for those they support.

What is Active Participation?

Active participation is when individuals are involved in decisions about their care and the activities that concern them. This engagement is central to person-centred care. The term means fostering a partnership between the carer and the individual, where the individual feels valued and respected.

Key Elements of Active Participation:

• Involving the Individual: Each person should have a say in their care plan.
• Decision-Making: Individuals should be consulted and contribute to decisions affecting them.
• Independence: Encouraging self-reliance and confidence by allowing individuals to perform tasks to their ability.

Advantages of Active Participation

Understanding the benefits can help carers appreciate why this practice is so important.

Personal Benefits:

• Enhanced Well-being: When individuals feel they are in control, they experience better mental and emotional health.
• Increased Satisfaction: Active participants often report higher satisfaction with their care.

Social Benefits:

• Stronger Relationships: Collaborative care improves trust and communication between carers and individuals.
• Community Inclusion: Encourages social interaction and inclusion, which combats isolation and loneliness.

Strategies for Supporting Active Participation

Communication

Open dialogue is the cornerstone of active participation.

Tips for Effective Communication:

• Listen Actively: Pay attention, nod, and respond to show you are engaged.
• Use Simple Language: Avoid jargon. Use words the individual understands.
• Be Patient: Give individuals time to express themselves without interruption.
• Ask Open-ended Questions: Promote discussion by avoiding yes/no questions.

Personalised Care Planning

Each care plan should be unique, reflecting the individual’s preferences, strengths, and needs.

Steps in Personalised Care Planning:

1. Conduct a Holistic Assessment: Evaluate the individual’s physical, emotional, and social needs.
2. Set Clear Goals: Both short-term and long-term goals should be set with input from the individual.
3. Review Regularly: Continually assess and adjust the care plan as needed.

Encouragement and Support

Helping individuals build confidence and independence is important.

Ways to Encourage and Support:

• Provide Choices: Give individuals options in their daily activities, such as what to wear or what to eat.
• Promote Skills Development: Support them in learning new skills or maintaining current abilities.
• Offer Assistance as Needed: Provide help without taking over tasks entirely.

Practical Applications

Daily Activities

Incorporating active participation into daily routines ensures it becomes a natural part of care.

Examples:

• Personal Care: Allow individuals to participate in dressing, grooming, and bathing to the extent possible.
• Meal Preparation: Involve them in meal planning, cooking, and serving.
• Household Tasks: Encourage participation in cleaning, organising, and other household chores.

Social Engagement

Facilitating social activities is a fundamental aspect of active participation.

Examples:

• Group Activities: Organise community events, group exercises, or craft sessions.
• Family Involvement: Involve family members in care discussions and activities.
• Community Outings: Schedule visits to local parks, shops, or cultural events.

Overcoming Challenges

Barriers to Active Participation

There are several potential barriers to active participation that carers should be aware of.

Common Barriers:

• Communication Difficulties: Language barriers or sensory impairments can hinder communication.
• Physical Limitations: Mobility issues or chronic pain may restrict activity participation.
• Cognitive Impairments: Dementia or learning disabilities can impact the decision-making process.

Solutions

Addressing Barriers:

• Use Assistive Technology: Devices like hearing aids, visual aids, or communication boards can be helpful.
• Adapt Activities: Modify activities to match the individual’s abilities. For instance, use lightweight utensils for those with limited strength.
• Involve Specialists: Seek the help of speech therapists, occupational therapists, or other professionals.

Documentation and Reflection

Keeping accurate records and reflecting on practices are essential to supporting active participation.

Documenting Participation

What to Record:

• Decisions Made: Note choices and preferences expressed by the individual.
• Activities Participated in: Record all activities the individual is involved in.
• Feedback Provided: Document any feedback or concerns shared by the individual.

Reflective Practice

Regularly reflect on your approach to care.

How to Reflect:

• Ask for Feedback: Regularly seek feedback from the individual and their family.
• Self-Evaluate: Assess your effectiveness in promoting active participation.
• Continuous Learning: Stay updated on best practices and consider additional training.

Example answers for activity 7.6a Demonstrate that they can support the active participation of individuals in their care.

Example Answer 1

Today, I supported Mr. Watson’s active participation by helping him plan his daily schedule. Mr. Watson prefers to be involved in deciding his activities. We sat down together and discussed what he wanted to do. He chose to spend the morning reading his favourite book and the afternoon gardening. By allowing Mr. Watson to choose his activities, I helped him feel more in control of his day and respected his preferences.

Example Answer 2

This afternoon, I assisted Mrs. Patel in preparing her lunch. Mrs. Patel enjoys cooking and likes to decide what she eats. I offered her a few meal options, and she chose to make a vegetable stir-fry. I supported her by setting up the ingredients and helping with the chopping. Mrs. Patel took the lead in cooking, and she was very pleased with the outcome. This involvement boosted her confidence and satisfaction with her care.

Example Answer 3

In my role today, I helped Mr. Thompson participate in his personal care. Mr. Thompson likes to be involved in bathing and grooming. I provided him with the necessary toiletries and ensured everything was within reach. Mr. Thompson washed himself and took care of his grooming needs, with me there for support if needed. This active participation helped preserve his dignity and independence.

Example Answer 4

During my shift, I organised a group exercise session and encouraged Mrs. Clark to join. Mrs. Clark usually stays in her room but expressed interest in being more active. I explained the benefits of the exercise session to her and reassured her it was tailored for all fitness levels. Mrs. Clark participated enthusiastically in the session and later told me she felt more energised and happier. This experience helped her feel included and socially engaged.

Example Answer 5

I supported Mr. Williams in managing his medication by involving him in the process. Mr. Williams likes to understand what he is taking and why. Together, we reviewed his medication list and discussed the purpose and timing of each medication. I asked for his input on how he prefers to take them, and he suggested a simple morning and evening routine. This approach empowered Mr. Williams to take an active role in managing his health, enhancing his understanding and cooperation.

Example Answer 6

Today, I accompanied Ms. Hughes on a community outing to the local park. Ms. Hughes enjoys being outside and interacting with others, but she needs assistance due to her mobility issues. Before we left, we discussed where she’d like to go and what activities she’d like to do. She opted for a stroll in the park and a visit to the café. I ensured she had her walking aids and provided support as needed. The outing helped Ms. Hughes feel more connected to the community and improved her overall mood.

Final Thoughts

Supporting active participation is not just about fulfilling a requirement of The Care Certificate. It’s about enriching the lives of those in our care. By involving individuals in their care, we promote their dignity, independence, and overall well-being. With effective communication, personalised care planning, and overcoming potential barriers, carers can create an empowering environment that respects and values each individual’s contributions.