7.6b Reflect on how their own personal views could restrict the individual’s ability to actively participate in their care

This guide will help you answer The Care Certificate Standard 7.6b Reflect on how their own personal views could restrict the individual’s ability to actively participate in their care.

Standard 7.6b focuses on reflecting on personal views and how these can impact the ability of individuals to participate actively in their own care. It features the need for self-awareness and consideration of the individuals’ rights and needs.

Awareness of Personal Views

Personal views include beliefs, preferences, values, and attitudes shaped by experiences and culture. These views can influence your actions and decisions in a care setting. Reflecting on them helps you to understand any biases that may affect the level of care you provide.

Impact on Individual Participation

What is Active Participation?

Active participation means involving individuals in their care decisions and daily activities. This ensures they feel valued, respected, and in control. It promotes their independence and well-being.

How Personal Views Can Restrict Participation

Assumptions and Stereotypes

• Making assumptions based on age, gender, race, or disability can limit an individual’s involvement.
• For instance, assuming an elderly person doesn’t want to use technology may prevent them from engaging in digital communication or activities.

Cultural Insensitivity

• Ignoring cultural practices can lead to exclusion.
• Not recognising religious dietary restrictions can deprive individuals of participating in meal planning.

Communication Barriers

• Poor communication can stem from biases about language proficiency or speech impairments.
• Talking over individuals or not listening actively can hinder their ability to express needs and preferences.

Patronising Attitudes

• Believing you know what’s best can lead to a patronising approach.
• This can make individuals feel undervalued and less likely to engage actively in their care.

Reflecting on Your Own Views

Self-awareness

To ensure your personal views do not impact the care provided, self-awareness is important. Engage in self-reflection routinely. Ask yourself:

• Do I make assumptions about this individual?
• How do my beliefs influence my interactions with them?
• Am I imposing my values on their choices?

Seeking Feedback

Actively seeking feedback from colleagues, supervisors, and the individuals in your care can provide new perspectives on your approach. Constructive criticism can feature areas for improvement.

Continuous Learning

Engage in ongoing learning about different cultures, disabilities, and personal backgrounds. This knowledge helps to counteract personal biases. Attend training sessions and workshops that focus on inclusivity and active participation.

Promoting Active Participation

Person-Centred Care

Person-centred care places the individual at the heart of all decisions. It acknowledges their rights, preferences, and needs. This approach ensures that care plans are tailored to individual needs.

Steps to Implement Person-Centred Care:

• Conduct thorough assessments to understand the individual’s preferences.
• Involve them in creating their care plans.
• Respect their choices even if they differ from your views.

Effective Communication

Clear and respectful communication is essential. Use plain language and be patient. Listen actively and validate their feelings and opinions.

Tips for Effective Communication:

• Ask open-ended questions to encourage dialogue.
• Use visual aids or interpreters if necessary.
• Regularly check for understanding.

Respect and Dignity

Treating individuals with respect and dignity is fundamental. This means acknowledging their right to make informed decisions about their care.

Promoting Respect and Dignity:

• Ensure privacy during personal care activities.
• Respect their personal space and belongings.
• Offer choices and control over their daily routines.

Empowerment Through Choices

Empower individuals by giving them choices in their care. This can include decisions about their daily activities, food preferences, or who provides their care.

Strategies for Empowerment:

• Provide information about available options.
• Encourage them to voice their preferences.
• Support them in making informed decisions.

Reflective Practice in Action

Case Studies and Examples

Reflective practice involves learning from real-life scenarios. Consider these examples:

Case Study 1: Mrs. Johnson and Her Religious Practices
Mrs. Johnson, an older woman in care, follows a strict vegetarian diet due to her religious beliefs. If a caregiver assumes she would prefer traditional meat-based dishes because “she looked frail,” this could prevent her from actively participating in her dietary decisions.

Reflection: Understand and respect Mrs. Johnson’s dietary preferences. Engage her in meal planning to ensure her needs are met.

Case Study 2: Mr. Ahmed and Technology Use
Mr. Ahmed, a middle-aged man with mobility issues, expressed interest in using a tablet for communication and entertainment. If a caregiver assumes he is uncomfortable with technology due to his age and disability, this can limit his participation.

Reflection: Recognise Mr. Ahmed’s interest and provide the necessary support and training to use technology effectively.

Example answers for activity 7.6b Reflect on how their own personal views could restrict the individual’s ability to actively participate in their care

Example 1:
In my role as a care worker, I have observed that my personal views on punctuality could potentially restrict an individual’s ability to participate actively in their care. I deeply value being on time, but I realised that one of my clients, Mr. Smith, has a slower pace due to his mobility issues. Initially, I found myself rushing him through his morning routine to keep him on a strict schedule. Reflecting on this, I understood that my approach was causing him stress and not respecting his need to move at his own pace. I decided to adjust my timing and allocate extra time to his routine, which enabled him to participate more comfortably and actively in his care.

Example 2:
Reflecting on my own cultural background, I’ve realised that my views on family involvement in care could be restrictive. In my culture, family members are deeply involved in care decisions. However, not all individuals share this perspective. I was supporting Ms. Adams, who prefers to make her own decisions without involving her family. Initially, I kept suggesting that she discuss her care with her family, which made her feel pressured. After reflecting, I understood the importance of respecting her autonomy. I now support her decision-making independently, which has significantly improved her engagement and satisfaction with her care.

Example 3:
I noticed that my belief in modern medicine over alternative treatments might restrict an individual’s choices and participation in their care. I was working with Mr. Khan, who preferred to use traditional remedies alongside conventional medicine. Initially, I dismissed his preference and only focused on pharmacological treatments. Reflecting on this, I recognised that I was not respecting his cultural beliefs and personal choices. I started to integrate his traditional remedies into his care plan, with his doctor’s approval, which made him more willing to participate in his overall care regimen.

Example 4:
In my previous approach to care, I assumed that non-verbal clients, like those with severe speech impairments, couldn’t actively participate in their care decisions. I realised this assumption when working with Ms. Brown, who uses a communication board. Initially, I made decisions for her, thinking it was in her best interest. Reflecting on this, I understood that I was underestimating her ability to communicate her needs. I learned to use her communication board effectively, which allowed her to express her preferences and take an active role in her care.

Example 5:
Reflecting on my approach with people from different age groups, I understood that my view that older people should rest more could be restrictive. Working with Mr. Thompson, an elderly gentleman who loves gardening, I initially advised him to avoid it, thinking it was too strenuous. When I reflected on this, I realised I was imposing my views on what activities were suitable for him. I then encouraged and assisted him with his gardening, which brought him joy and allowed him to stay active and engaged in his daily life.

Example 6:
I have realised that my attitude towards mental health could potentially restrict someone’s participation in their care. Often, I believed that individuals with mental health issues, like depression, might not want to be involved in their care decisions. While working with Ms. Clarke, who suffers from depression, I found myself making decisions on her behalf, thinking I was reducing her burden. Reflecting on this, I saw that I was not giving her the opportunity to express her wants and needs. I started to involve her more in discussions regarding her care plan, which improved her sense of control and participation.

Final Thoughts

Reflecting on personal views and their impact on care is important in health and social care settings. By becoming self-aware, seeking feedback, and engaging in continuous learning, caregivers can ensure they promote active participation. Emphasising person-centred care, effective communication, respect, and empowerment creates a supportive environment. This allows individuals to maintain control and dignity in their care journey. By embedding these practices, caregivers uphold the principles of the Care Certificate and enhance the quality of care provided.