1.1. Describe what is meant by a person centred approach

This guide will help you answer the NCFE CACHE Level 2 Award in Awareness of Dementia Unit 1.1. Describe what is meant by a person centred approach.

In health and social care, especially in dementia care, the person-centred approach is fundamental. This approach ensures that the care and support provided focus on the individual’s unique needs, preferences, and values. This is important for improving the quality of life for those with dementia.

Definition of Person-Centred Care

A person-centred approach places the person at the heart of their own care. It treats each individual with dignity, respect, and compassion. This means looking beyond the disease to see the whole person.

Core Principles of a Person-Centred Approach

There are several key principles that underpin a person-centred approach:

• Individuality: Recognising that each person has unique needs and preferences.
• Rights: Ensuring that the person’s human rights are respected.
• Choice: Providing choices and involving the person in decisions about their care.
• Privacy: Respecting the person’s privacy and confidential information.
• Independence: Promoting the person’s independence and encouraging them to do as much as they can for themselves.
• Inclusion: Including the person in the life of the community and their own family.
• Empathy: Understanding and being sensitive to the feelings and experiences of the person.

Importance in Dementia Care

In dementia care, the person-centred approach is particularly important for several reasons:

• Improves Well-being: Understanding and meeting individual needs can actually enhance well-being and quality of life.
• Reduces Anxiety and Distress: Familiar routines and personal preferences reduce anxiety and distress in individuals with dementia.
• Promotes Dignity and Respect: Treating people with dementia with respect and dignity helps maintain their self-esteem and confidence.
• Enhances Relationships: When caregivers focus on the person rather than the dementia, relationships between caregivers and individuals improve.

Practical Implementation

Implementing a person-centred approach involves several practical steps:

Knowing the Person

• Life History: Gather details about the person’s life history, interests, and preferences.
• Strengths and Abilities: Focus on what the person can do rather than what they cannot do.
• Communication: Use clear, simple, and respectful communication tailored to the person’s needs.

Personalised Care Plans

Care plans should be personalised and regularly updated. They must reflect the person’s current needs, preferences, and wishes. This requires ongoing assessment and adaptation.

Environment

The care environment should be homely and supportive. Familiar objects, photos, and personal items should be available to make the person feel at ease.

Involving Family and Friends

Family and friends should be actively involved in care. They provide valuable insights into the person’s preferences and history.

Issues and Potential Solutions

Applying a person-centred approach can be challenging. Here are some common challenges and potential solutions:

• Time Constraints: Providing personalised care can be time-consuming.
• Solution: Allocate sufficient time for care planning and interaction with the person.
• Staff Training: Staff may require training to understand and implement person-centred care effectively.
• Solution: Provide continuous training and support for staff.
• Resource Limitations: Resources may be limited in some care settings.
• Solution: Utilise available resources creatively and advocate for necessary funding.

Case Studies

Example 1: Mary’s Story

Mary, aged 75, has moderate dementia. Using a person-centred approach, her carers learn about her love for gardening. They incorporate gardening activities into her daily routine, which significantly reduces her agitation and improves her mood.

Example 2: John’s Story

John, aged 82, loves jazz music. His care plan includes regular sessions where he listens to his favourite jazz records. This simple activity helps him remain calm and provides a sense of continuity in his life.

Final Thoughts

A person-centred approach in dementia care is not just about providing physical care. It’s about seeing the individual as a whole person. This approach emphasises respect, dignity, and compassion. Implementing it effectively requires knowing the person, creating personalised care plans, and involving family and friends. Despite the challenges, the benefits for the person with dementia are immense. By focusing on the person, caregivers can actually improve the quality of life for those living with dementia.

Example answers for unit 1.1. Describe what is meant by a person centred approach

Example Answer 1: Emphasising Individuality

As a care worker, I believe that a person-centred approach means recognising that each person with dementia is unique. It’s essential to tailor the care to fit their personal history, preferences, and individuality. For example, Mrs Smith, one of our residents, loves classical music. By playing her favourite pieces each morning, we help her feel more comfortable and happy, creating a connection that is meaningful to her. Knowing these small details about her helps in delivering a more personalised care experience.

Example Answer 2: Promoting Rights and Choices

A person-centred approach involves ensuring that the rights and choices of individuals with dementia are respected. This means involving them in decisions about their care and providing options whenever possible. For instance, we always ask Mr Patel what he would like for breakfast instead of assuming or choosing for him. This small gesture makes him feel valued and respected, and it’s an importantpart of maintaining his dignity.

Example Answer 3: Ensuring Privacy and Dignity

Maintaining the privacy and dignity of individuals with dementia is central to a person-centred approach. We make sure to knock on bedroom doors and wait for a response before entering to avoid any discomfort. For example, I always ask Mrs Jones if she is comfortable before assisting her with personal care, ensuring she feels respected and retains her dignity.

Example Answer 4: Encouraging Independence

A key part of person-centred care is encouraging and promoting the individual’s independence as much as possible. For example, Mr Thompson likes to brush his own hair every morning. Even though it might take a bit longer, I believe it’s important to let him do it himself to maintain his sense of autonomy. This helps him to feel more capable and self-reliant.

Example Answer 5: Involving Family and Friends

Engaging family and friends in the care process is an important aspect of a person-centred approach. For example, Mrs Davies enjoys her daughter visiting and talking about old family stories. I encourage her daughter to visit regularly and share these special moments. It helps Mrs Davies feel connected and loved, which significantly improves her emotional wellbeing.

Example Answer 6: Creating a Supportive Environment

A person-centred approach also means creating a supportive and familiar environment that meets the specific needs of individuals with dementia. For example, I ensure that Mr Brown, who finds comfort in his old photographs and favourite chair, always has these items readily available. This familiar environment helps reduce his anxiety and creates a sense of safety and comfort.