Dementia: Person-Centred Care
A person’s journey with dementia is a unique experience, varying from person to person. While there may have been a particular diagnosis of dementia and treatment in place for a person, continual evaluation of their journey is crucial.
Ongoing monitoring of the individual’s experiences can help facilitate behavioural and psychological symptoms of dementia.
As every person with dementia has different needs, it is important to provide person-centred care.
This personal approach will help the patient feel heard, understood, and supported, as well as helping the carer understand and appreciate the uniqueness of the person’s needs.
Here are 5 keywords to help you remember how to provide a person-centred care for dementia patients:
1. Respect:
Provide dignified and respectful treatment to individuals.
2. Background:
Learn their history, lifestyle, culture and preferences (e.g. likes, dislikes, hobbies, interests).
3. Perspective:
Look at situations through the lens of the person with dementia.
4. Connection:
Create opportunities for socialisation and connections with others.
5. Happiness:
Encourage engagement in new experiences and activities that bring joy and fulfilment to the individual.
This person-centred care appreciates the individual’s choices and lifestyle, allowing him or her to live a meaningful life. Therefore, family, carers and individuals with dementia (where possible) should develop their knowledge and understanding of the approach, and evaluate if their current care plan is right for them.
However, trying to plan for individualised care alone can be difficult. Living Waters Aged Care provides the personal care your family member deserves.
If you are seeking help, contact us.
