Welcome to our module on care models for providing top-notch home care.
Through countless studies and research over the years, we’ve learned a lot about what makes for effective and compassionate home care. These studies, while diverse, often point to similar best practices and principles.
In the upcoming content, we’ll explore these commonalities in depth. We’ll discuss the steps that contribute to a high standard of care, from the practicalities of daily routines to the nuances of emotional support. This is about taking those findings and translating them into the kind of care that makes a real difference in people’s lives.
Stay tuned as we delve into these shared insights, which will be the foundation of the quality home care we strive to provide each day at Arcadia.
In the world of home care, we have a golden rule: the client is at the heart of everything we do. This is what we call Person-Centered Care.
Here’s what it looks like in practice:
Every decision we make, every plan of care we draw up, starts and ends with the client. It’s their needs, their life, their choices that guide us.
To provide the best care, we need to build a strong relationship based on trust with each client. It’s about more than just tasks; it’s about getting to know them as people.
When we set goals for care, we don’t just decide what’s best on our own. We sit down with the client, listen to what they enjoy and what they don’t, and make those preferences the stars that guide us.
We pay close attention to who the client is — their beliefs, what’s important to them, and where they come from. All these things shape the care we provide.
And if they can, we encourage the client to choose someone they trust to make decisions if there comes a time when they can’t make them on their own.
Person-Centered Care isn’t just a method; it’s a commitment to respect, dignity, and partnership in care. It’s about making sure our clients always feel they’re in the driver’s seat of their own care journey.
Now, let’s talk about Activity Focused Care. This approach is all about helping our clients engage in meaningful tasks, supporting them to not only maintain their skills but also feel valued.
Here’s how we put this into action:
We encourage our clients to do tasks themselves as much as possible. As caregivers, we’re there to guide and support them, step by step. This not only helps them keep up their abilities but also boosts their sense of self-worth.
Sometimes, we may need to break down directions into one or two steps at a time and repeat them. It’s important not to show frustration. Remember, the client might not be able to follow along the first time, and that’s okay—repetition can be a powerful tool.
Make sure the tasks are meaningful. Think about what they enjoyed in the past. Did they love gardening? Maybe sorting seed packets or arranging flowers can be a part of their routine.
Be aware of distractions like TV, radio, or lots of people around. These can make it tough for the client to concentrate. Sometimes, we need to turn off the TV or find a quieter space so they can focus on the task at hand.
When setting up an activity, structure is your friend. If you’re folding laundry, for instance, sort the items into piles—socks in one, shirts in another. Then, show the client what to do and use clear verbal cues to guide them.
Research has shown us that Activity Focused Care can really make a difference. It’s been linked to less distress, agitation, and other behaviors that can be challenging. By focusing on activities, we’re not just passing the time; we’re enhancing quality of life.
In home care, we often talk about the ‘Team Approach’. This isn’t just a strategy; it’s a philosophy that ensures everyone involved in the client’s life works together harmoniously to provide the best care possible.
Here’s the game plan for a successful team approach:
Think of the client’s care like a team sport where family members, healthcare professionals, and caregivers are all players with a common goal.
It’s important to identify what causes stress for the client. Like a coach, we need to understand what plays lead to unnecessary pressure and tackle them together.
Equally, we need to know the strategies that prevent stress. What are the client’s winning moves? It might be a quiet afternoon, a specific routine, or a favorite hobby.
Together, we’ll create a schedule that’s like a well-oiled playbook, tailored to the client’s rhythm and preferences. Whether it’s daily or weekly, this plan will guide the whole team in providing consistent and effective care.
When we work as a team, we ensure that the client always feels supported, understood, and at the center of care. This coordinated effort can improve their quality of life significantly.
A care plan is more than a checklist; it’s a roadmap for enhancing the client’s daily life. Besides the essential activities of daily living, here’s what we include to enrich our clients’ lives:
Regular outings are a breath of fresh air, quite literally. Whether it’s a walk in the park or a sit-out in the garden, going outside can uplift spirits and provide a change of scenery.
Physical contact, as simple as a warm handshake, a pat on the back, or a gentle hug, can be comforting. Of course, this is always guided by how comfortable the client feels with touch.
Cultural and religious practices hold a special place in many of our clients’ hearts. Including these traditions in the care plan isn’t just respectful—it’s a way to honor their identity and history.
These activities aren’t extras; they’re core parts of the care that contribute to a fuller, more joyful life for our clients.
