What does ‘Person-Centred’ mean?

We are often asked ‘What does Person-Centred actually mean’? It is a term used frequently in the care sector, yet it still causes some confusion.

Here at Mae Care, we offer a person-centred approach to dementia care, and this article will explain what it means and how we apply it in what we do.

‘Person-Centred’ essentially means the person is at the centre of everything we do. We do not focus on the condition they are suffering from.

Person-centred care follows some basic principles:

• Getting to know the person, their culture, lifestyle, hobbies, likes and dislikes. This can be types of music they like to listen to, a favourite film to watch, or an activity they regularly do, such as swimming, hiking or even shopping!

• Walking in their shoes - showing empathy, trying to look at situations from the point of view of the person

• Enabling the person to continue having relationships with friends, and continue with their activities and interests

• Always being respectful and treating with dignity

Below is a short video by Emma Hutton, an occupation therapist who explains more on Person-Centred care for dementia suffers.

At Mae Care, we believe person-centred care is the best way to care for someone living with a dementia diagnosis. Every person we care for is treated using the principles of person-centred care listed above.

When we are introduced to a new person, we take time and effort to get to know that person, and we create a care plan centred around the person. The care plan is shared with the team involved with the persons care, hence reducing the anxiety to the person when new team members are introduced. We will engage with the person, talking to them about their history, hobbies and keep them entertained with their favourite music and films.