How does person-centered care differ from traditional long-term care practices?

Person-centered care fundamentally shifts the focus of care from just meeting the basic needs of individuals to actively enhancing both their quality of care and their overall quality of life. This approach recognizes each person's unique history, preferences, and needs, leading to a more individualized, respectful, and responsive care experience.

In person-centered care, the emphasis is on fostering a supportive environment where residents have a voice and are actively involved in their own care decisions. This can include choices about daily schedules, activities, and personal care routines, all of which contribute significantly to a person's sense of dignity and autonomy.

Unlike traditional long-term care practices that may prioritize efficiency, medication compliance, or a more standardized approach that can overlook individual preferences, person-centered care aims to create a holistic experience that honors each person's individuality. This comprehensive focus ensures that care strategies are tailored to the specific desires and lifestyles of the people being served, improving not only their health outcomes but also their emotional and social well-being.