Home Care Services - Promoting Personalised Care
Introduction
This guide is designed to help home care providers with insights and strategies to implement personalised care and planning effectively. Embracing person-centered care not only enhances the quality of care but also promotes dignity, autonomy, and well-being among individuals receiving care. This approach aligns with the fundamental principles of care delivery and ensures compliance with relevant legislation.
The Role of Personalised Risk Assessment
Central to person-centred care is a comprehensive person-centred risk assessment. This assessment not only identifies potential risks but also considers the individual's choices and their right to engage in positive risk-taking. It provides the foundation for crafting individualised care plans.
Person-Centered Care - Key Elements
Seeing Through Their Eyes: Person-centered care entails viewing care from the individual's perspective. It prioritises their unique capabilities, aspirations, and support requirements.
Respect for Autonomy: In decision-making, health and social care staff should actively involve individuals and respect their right to make choices about their care.
Supporting Individuals to Express Their Views and Wishes
Effective communication is essential in enabling individuals to express their views and preferences. This may involve:
- Using the individual's preferred communication method
- Actively listening to their thoughts and concerns
- Preserving their dignity
- Honouring their choices and human rights
- Adhering to the Equality Act 2010 and its protected characteristics
- Respecting cultural beliefs
- Ensuring clear and transparent communication
- Considering mental capacity and consent
- Promoting inclusion and equal access to opportunities
- Acknowledging life and medical history
- Empowering individuals to make informed choices
Benefits of Active Involvement
Research shows that actively involving individuals in their care, treatment, and support leads to improved outcomes. It equips them with the tools to manage their well-being and conditions more effectively (NHS England).
Legal Framework
- Adherence to relevant legislation is crucial in care provision. Some overarching legislation to consider includes:
- Health and Care Act 2022
- Human Rights Act 1998
- Equality Act 2010
- Health and Safety at Work Act 1974
- Care Act 2014
- Health and Social Care Act 2008 (Regulated Activities) Regulations 2014
- Fundamental Standards for Care (CQC, England) 2018
- Social Services and Well-being (Wales) Act 2014
- Standards of Conduct and Practice for Social Care Workers (RQIA) (Northern Ireland)
- The new Health and Social Care Standards (Scotland) 2018
- Data Protection and GDPR
Practical Steps for Home Care Providers:
- Actively involve the individual in their care planning
- Tailor care to match individual preferences
- Ensure understanding and consent in care decisions
- Address communication needs effectively
- Regularly review care plans
- Provide clear avenues for lodging complaints
Lasting Power of Attorney (LPA)
Individuals may have been granted LPAs for financial and health/welfare decisions. Ensure your awareness of:
- The holders of LPAs
- Copies of LPAs on file
- Validity of LPAs
- Completion of mental capacity assessments
- Best interest considerations
- Addressing LPA-related concerns effectively
Care Plans: A Holistic View
A care plan is a personalised document outlining the services and support provided. It is crafted based on individual needs, preferences, and the responsible care team. Effective care planning relies on a comprehensive care needs assessment and regular reviews.
Personalisation in Documentation
Ensure that documentation is personalised to align with individualised needs. Avoid jargon and abbreviations, and involve all concerned parties, including individuals, family members, caregivers, and professionals, in the creation of truly personalised care plans.
Crisis and Contingency Plans
Prevent crises by developing contingency plans that come into action in case of significant changes or unforeseen circumstances. These plans should include:
- Contact information within the organisation
- Contact information for GPs and next of kin
- Strategies for addressing key elements of the care plan
- Medication requirements in emergencies
- Successful strategies from past similar situations
- Early warning signs and relapse indicators
Examples of Personalised Care Plan Entries:
Personalised Approach: For my daily shower, here are my preferences: I have my chosen toiletries ready in the bathroom. I'd appreciate it if we could use Head and Shoulders shampoo and conditioner for my hair, but only once a week. Before getting in, I'd like to check the water temperature myself to make sure it's just right. I tend to feel the cold, so it would be great if the room is warm and draft-free. I have my dressing gown, which I put on once I'm dry. I don't use any deodorant or powder.
Non-Personalised approach - Please assist with a daily shower as needed
Personalised Approach: When it comes to lunch, here's what I prefer: I enjoy my meal promptly at noon. I usually opt for a balanced meal with a protein source, vegetables, and grains. I'm not a fan of spicy foods, so please keep that in mind when preparing my lunch. I find it more comfortable to sit at the kitchen table for my meal. Also, I'd appreciate a glass of water with lunch.
Non-personalised approach: Prepare lunch and a drink in the kitchen.
For More Information
Join Our Care Begins at Home Group: For care professionals and unpaid carers, our support group provides the latest information and resources for caring for your loved ones at home. Stay updated and connect with a community that understands your journey.
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