Person-centred care is a philosophy often referred to in both the disability and aged care sectors. This care approach is comprised of four key elements:
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- Valuing people and those who care for them – treating people with dignity and respect by being aware;
- Individuals – giving people the provision of choice and subsequent respect for those choices;
- Perspective – looking at the world from the client’s perspective and life experience; and
- Social environment – understanding their relationships ensuring they are able to experience relative wellbeing.
If you search ‘person-centred care’ on the internet, it is defined as “a way of thinking and doing things that sees the people using health and social services as equal partners in planning, developing and monitoring care to make sure it meets their needs.”
This approach ensures the person receiving support is always at the centre of any decisions concerning their lives and involves listening, brainstorming together and valuing feedback. Interchange Australia takes a person-centred approach to service delivery and this approach delivers positive outcomes for all of our clients across the age and disability spectrum.
The following client case studies demonstrate this:
Trish has Multiple Sclerosis and multiple other health issues. She lives alone and enjoys her independence. After consultation with Trish and listening to her choices of support, her care now involves a continuation with the formal supports she has been receiving with the addition of regular support to attend hydrotherapy which has a positive effect on her wellbeing.
Beth has been receiving support as part of a group who regularly go out. Her mobility and general health is declining, and she experiences some confusion. Listening to feedback and having discussions with both Beth and her carer, Interchange Australia has been able to redirect Beth’s services to ensure that she receives greater health benefits. Within this service, Beth is supported individually ensuring she’s still able to socialise each week with her friends, while her increased support needs are met.
Interchange Australia is committed to providing the highest standard of care through its person-centred approach and its principles of communication, adaptability, reliability, empathy and safety.
- This article was written by an Interchange Australia Consultant. Interchange Australia provides a wide range of services for people with disability, older people and families with a child with autism. Details: Interchange Australia’s services, www.interchangeau.org, www.facebook.com/interchangeau or phone 1300 112 334.
