Following a care needs assessment, a council or care provider will prepare a care plan for the person who needs care.
In this post we’ll outline what a care plan is, and what it should include. We’ll also discuss why care plans are vital for preserving a person’s dignity and independence while they receive care.
What is a Care Plan?
A care plan outlines an individual’s care needs, to help ensure that they get the support they need. Usually, the person who needs care will be directly involved in putting the care plan together, as they’ll be able to talk about their views and preferences.
Carers will usually periodically review and revise a care plan, as a person’s care needs can change over time.
What Should a Care Plan Include?
- Care Needs – The care plan will list the individual’s specific care needs, along with the desired outcome of the care. It will specify who will be responsible for meeting these needs, whether that’s the local council, a private carer, or a friend or relative. It will also provide advice on how the person might reduce these needs, or prevent further needs from arising in the future
- Medical History – The care plan will list any past or existing medical conditions that might impact the care. For example, if a previous injury has resulted in mobility issues, this will be mentioned in the care plan
- Medication – The care plan will outline the medication the person is on, including information on dosages and the medication schedule. It will also specify how this course of medication might change over time
- Routines – Along with the medication schedule, the care plan may also specify when the person receiving care likes to get up, when they like to eat, and other aspects of their routine
- Wishes and Goals – The care plan will outline the wishes and goals that the person would like to achieve whilst they are being supported, and these will be linked to the care needs of the individual in order to track progress
The Benefits of a Care Plan
The main benefit of a care plan is that it sets down, in writing, exactly what sort of care is needed, and why. It also creates clarity and transparency around vital issues such as medication, payment plans, and adjustments a person may need to make to their home or lifestyle to accommodate their care needs.
But beyond all of this, a care plan can help a person retain their dignity and independence while they are receiving care.
How to Ensure a Care Plan Meets an Individuals’ Needs
Crucially, a care plan isn’t a “one-size-fits-all” procedure. The authorities and care providers will work closely with the person receiving care in order to ensure that the plan respects their views and meets their preferences.
On top of this, if the person receiving care is unhappy with their care plan, they can request that their plan is adjusted to better suit their needs, this can happen in an annual review or at an impromptu review requested by the person or their family members
It is also possible to specify specialist care services as part of a care plan. For example, the person receiving care can request companionship care services, which can provide a range of benefits beyond those outlined in a formal care plan.
We Can Support You With Your Care Plan
If you live in Surrey or by its borders, you can get bespoke support at home with the Crossroads Direct service.
We can help you create a dedicated care plan whether it’s for yourself, or for a loved one. We’ll work closely with the person receiving care to ensure that their personalised plan meets all of their unique needs and preferences.
Learn more about Crossroads Direct home help services. For more information, call 01372 677 831.
