Oct 12, 2023 | News
Every person is different, with unique preferences and personalities. This individuality should also be reflected in an older person’s care, in the form of a carefully considered, personalised care plan.
A personalised care plan is a strategy that allows a person to live in maximum comfort, with their unique needs met. It usually focuses on helping your loved one live with as much independence and autonomy as is safe and suitable for them, which has important quality of life and mental health benefits.
This sort of plan is also beneficial for a person’s friends and family. You will have peace of mind knowing your loved one is receiving care on their terms, that suits them and their situation and will have their best interests at heart, at all times.
How a personalised care plan is created
A personalised care plan is created around your loved one’s specific requirements for comfort living and maximum independence.
From the very start these hinges on good communication, between the person receiving care and their care team, as well as with friends and family. It is key that your loved one feels able to express themselves and their preferences as far as they are able, and that carers listen and take this on board. It is also crucial for friends and family to offer further insight, and also to give carers space to provide their professional advice.
A personalised care plan will take into account a person’s current health and living arrangements, but also keep the future in mind. Your loved one’s needs will change as time passes, and while it is not always possible to predict exactly what sort of care requirements they will have in future, a good care plan will make provision for adaptations and re-assessments as and when they are needed.
A professional care team will also welcome feedback and reasonable requests for change in a person’s individual plan. Adjustments don’t have to stem from alterations in a person’s physical or mental capabilities. Instead, a well thought-out care plan can be adapted to take into account changes in preference by the person receiving care.
Whether they would like to switch up their daily routine, involve certain family and friends in their day-to-day life to a greater or lesser extent, or add in a new hobby or activity, a truly individual care plan can accommodate it.
Finally, a personalised care plan should be proactive and intentional. Every aspect should be carefully considered and written specifically with your loved one in mind, rather than being a generic inclusion. Don’t be afraid to ask your care team to explain the reasoning behind certain plans and decisions; they should welcome your questions and be happy to help you understand how the plan is designed to benefit your loved one.
If your loved one would benefit from a personalised care plan, contact OxleyCare today