2.3 Explain the importance of including the individual in all aspects of their care

This guide will help you answer the NCFE CACHE Level 2 Award in Awareness of Dementia Unit 2.3 Explain the importance of including the individual in all aspects of their care.

Including the individual in all aspects of their care is important, particularly when it comes to dementia care. This approach forms the cornerstone of person-centred care, which aims to treat each person as a unique individual. Understanding and respecting the preferences, values, and needs of the person living with dementia can actually influence their quality of life and overall well-being. Let’s look into the importance of this practice.

Enhances Dignity and Respect

Preservation of Dignity: When individuals are included in decisions about their care, it preserves their dignity. They feel respected and valued, rather than just a subject of care.

Respect for Choices: By considering and respecting the individual’s choices, you acknowledge their rights to make decisions about their own lives. This is essential in maintaining their autonomy, even if they have cognitive impairments.

Promotes Empowerment

Encouraging Independence: When individuals are involved in their care decisions, they are more likely to feel empowered. This can lead to greater independence and a sense of control over their lives.

Boosting Confidence: Making decisions, even small ones, can boost the confidence of individuals with dementia. It can make them feel more competent and capable, which can positively impact their mental health.

Enhances Communication and Relationships

Better Understanding: Including individuals in their care requires effective communication. This results in better understanding and reduces misunderstandings.

Improved Relationships: A care approach that includes the individual fosters stronger relationships between the person with dementia, their family, and care workers. It creates a partnership rather than a hierarchical relationship.

Improves Care Outcomes

Personalised Care: When individuals are involved in their care, the resulting care plans are more likely to reflect their personal preferences and needs. This leads to more effective and satisfactory care outcomes.

Consistency and Continuity: Individuals who are actively involved in their care are more likely to experience consistency and continuity. A personalised approach often means the care plan is stable and changes only when necessary, improving overall routine and satisfaction.

Encourages Well-being and Mental Health

Reduction in Anxiety and Stress: Making decisions can reduce feelings of anxiety and helplessness. It fosters a sense of normality and routine, which is really important for individuals living with dementia.

Enhancement of Quality of Life: Overall well-being improves when people feel heard and valued. When individuals are included in their care, it can enhance their mood, reduce behavioural problems, and improve their quality of life.

Promotes the Principle of Consent

Legal and Ethical Considerations: Involving individuals in their care decisions is not just best practice; it’s a legal requirement. Seeking informed consent is a fundamental principle in health and social care.

Ethical Integrity: Including individuals in decisions ensures that care practices uphold ethical standards. It aligns with principles like respect for autonomy and beneficence, ensuring care interventions are in the best interest of the person.

Supports Person-Centred Care

Tailored Interventions: Person-centred care means tailoring interventions to meet the unique needs of the person. Inclusive practices ensure that care plans are not one-size-fits-all but are specifically designed around the individual’s life story, preferences, and needs.

Holistic Approach: Including individuals in their care encourages a holistic approach that considers their physical, emotional, social, and psychological needs.

Examples of Inclusivity in Care

Personal Care Plans: Create care plans that the individual has actively contributed to. This can include preferred daily routines, food choices, and leisure activities.

Regular Reviews: Conduct regular reviews of the care plan with the individual and their family to ensure it continues to reflect their needs and preferences.

Advanced Directives: Support the person in creating advanced directives which are legal documents that outline their preferences for future care.

Barriers and Solutions

Communication Difficulties: Cognitive impairments can pose communication challenges. Using simplified language, visual aids, and consistent routines can help in overcoming these barriers.

Time Constraints: Effective communication can be time-consuming. However, investing time initially can save time in the long run by reducing misunderstandings and improving care efficiency.

Training and Education: Care workers need proper training to develop the skills necessary to include individuals meaningfully in their care. Continuous education programs can keep them updated on the best practices.

Final Thoughts

Including individuals in all aspects of their care is fundamental to promoting their dignity, autonomy, and well-being. It respects their rights, supports person-centred care, and can actually improve outcomes. Care workers must be committed to this approach through effective communication, regular reviews, and personalised care plans. Taking this approach ensures that care is ethical, legal, and truly focused on the needs of the person living with dementia.

By fostering a collaborative environment where individuals feel empowered and valued, we pave the way for a more compassionate and effective care system.

Example answers for unit 2.3 Explain the importance of including the individual in all aspects of their care

Example Answer 1

As a care worker, I have seen firsthand how important it is to include individuals in all aspects of their care. For instance, Mrs Thompson, a resident with early-stage dementia, has a strong preference for certain types of food. By including her in meal planning, we not only ensure she enjoys her meals but also respect her dietary needs and personal choices. This involvement has boosted her mood and overall satisfaction, making her more cooperative and happier.

Example Answer 2

In my experience, involving individuals in their care can actually enhance their sense of autonomy and self-worth. Mr Jones, another resident in our care home, recently expressed his wish to participate in the garden club. By facilitating this request, we have noticed a marked improvement in his demeanour. He feels more engaged, less isolated, and his confidence has grown. This inclusion has had positive effects on his mental health and wellbeing.

Example Answer 3

One practical method I’ve adopted is creating personalised care plans that reflect each individual’s preferences and needs. For example, Mrs Patel prefers a specific morning routine that includes a cup of herbal tea and listening to classical music. By accommodating her preferences, we start her day off on a positive note, enhancing her mood and reducing anxiety. Regularly reviewing and updating these plans with the individual’s input ensures they remain relevant and effective.

Example Answer 4

Communication is essential in involving individuals in their care. Mr Clark, who has moderate dementia, has difficulty expressing himself verbally. To better include him, I use visual aids and simple language, allowing him to make choices about his daily activities. This approach has improved our relationship and made it easier to align his care with his preferences. His increased happiness and reduced behavioural issues feature the importance of effective communication.

Example Answer 5

Involving individuals can sometimes present challenges, but they are worth overcoming. Mrs Evans has severe dementia and struggles with anxiety. Including her in her care meant taking extra time to understand her non-verbal cues and involving her family for insights. Although time-consuming, this effort has paid off. We’ve created a soothing environment that has considerably reduced her anxiety levels and improved her overall quality of life.

Example Answer 6

Seeking informed consent is a legal and ethical necessity, but it also fosters trust and respect. Mr Smith needed a new medication regimen. Rather than simply implementing it, I explained the changes and sought his consent. Involving him in this decision not only adhered to legal requirements but also showed respect for his autonomy. As a result, he felt more in control and was more compliant with his medication, leading to better health outcomes.