Introduction
This essay explores the importance of facilitating person-centred assessment in adult care to support the wellbeing of individuals. Person-centred care is a fundamental principle in health and social care, prioritising the individual’s needs, preferences, and values in the planning and delivery of services. Within the context of a Level 4 Diploma in Adult Care, this approach is vital for promoting dignity and autonomy. The essay will outline the concept of person-centred assessment, discuss its role in enhancing wellbeing, and evaluate its practical application in care settings. By drawing on relevant evidence and examples, the discussion aims to highlight both the benefits and potential challenges of this approach.
Understanding Person-Centred Assessment
Person-centred assessment refers to a collaborative process where care providers work with individuals to identify their unique needs, strengths, and aspirations. Unlike traditional assessment models that may focus solely on deficits or medical conditions, this approach considers the person holistically, encompassing physical, emotional, and social dimensions. According to the UK’s Care Quality Commission (CQC), person-centred care ensures that individuals are treated with respect and involved in decisions about their care (CQC, 2020). This framework aligns with legislative guidance, such as the Care Act 2014, which mandates local authorities to promote individual wellbeing through tailored support (Department of Health and Social Care, 2014). By prioritising the individual’s voice, person-centred assessment fosters a sense of empowerment, which is often linked to improved mental health outcomes.
The Role in Supporting Wellbeing
Wellbeing in adult care refers to a state of physical, mental, and emotional health where individuals feel valued and supported. Person-centred assessment contributes to wellbeing by ensuring that care plans are not only relevant but also meaningful to the individual. For instance, in a residential care home, an assessment might reveal that an elderly resident values social interaction over medical interventions. Adjusting care to include group activities could, therefore, enhance their emotional wellbeing. Research by McCormack and McCance (2017) highlights that person-centred practices improve satisfaction and reduce feelings of isolation among care recipients. However, challenges arise when resources or time constraints limit the ability to fully personalise care, indicating a potential limitation in real-world application. Addressing such barriers requires organisational commitment and training, as wellbeing cannot be supported through assessment alone.
Practical Application and Challenges
Implementing person-centred assessment in practice involves active listening, empathy, and the use of tools like life story work or care planning templates. For example, during an assessment, a care worker might use open-ended questions to understand an individual’s cultural preferences, thereby tailoring support accordingly. Nevertheless, applying this approach consistently can be complex. Staff may lack adequate training, or individuals with cognitive impairments might struggle to articulate their needs. Furthermore, as noted by Kitwood (1997), systemic pressures in care settings often prioritise efficiency over personalisation, potentially undermining the process. Despite these issues, person-centred assessment remains a valuable tool, provided there is sufficient guidance and support for practitioners to address such complexities.
Conclusion
In summary, facilitating person-centred assessment is essential for supporting the wellbeing of individuals in adult care. By focusing on individual needs and preferences, this approach enhances autonomy and emotional health, as evidenced by both policy frameworks and academic research. While practical challenges, such as resource limitations and training gaps, can hinder implementation, these can be mitigated through systemic improvements. The implications for care practice are clear: person-centred assessment must be prioritised to ensure care is both effective and humane. As future care workers, adopting this mindset is crucial to delivering dignified, individualised support.
References
- Care Quality Commission (2020) Person-Centred Care. Care Quality Commission.
- Department of Health and Social Care (2014) Care Act 2014. UK Government.
- Kitwood, T. (1997) Dementia Reconsidered: The Person Comes First. Open University Press.
- McCormack, B. and McCance, T. (2017) Person-Centred Practice in Nursing and Health Care: Theory and Practice. Wiley-Blackwell.
