When someone agrees to receive help at home, it can be a big transition from being completely independant to relying upon someone else for support.
Enabling a person to retain levels of independance and choice is vital for their mental health and well-being.
When you are with someone you care for, always remember to...
Talk kindly and listen: Treat people with respect and listen to their thoughts and feelings. Use their preferred name and have meaningful conversations with them. Speak kindly to someone and listen when they want to talk.
Keep things private: Respect their privacy and keep their personal information confidential. Make sure they have their own space for personal care. Give people their own space for personal activities, like using the bathroom or getting dressed.
Focus on their needs: Make care plans that are tailored to their specific needs and preferences. Involve them in decisions and consider their beliefs and cultural background. Ask people what they like and prefer, and tailor their choices in their care.
Support independence: Encourage them to do things on their own and make choices about their daily life. Help them with skills that promote independence. Encourage people to do things on their own, like getting dressed or making simple meals. Support them in trying new things and help them build their skills.
Be there emotionally: Offer support and understanding and acknowledge their emotions. Listen to them and provide comfort when they need it. Show understanding and care when someone feels sad or worried. Listen to their feelings and give them a comforting hug or a kind word.
Keep their surroundings dignified: Keep their environment clean, safe, and comfortable. Provide personal care items and make sure shared spaces are clean. Keep their living space clean and tidy. Make sure they have clean clothes to wear and personal hygiene items like toothbrushes and soap. Offer appropriate clothing options.
Help them stay connected: Help them keep in touch with their loved ones and maintain important relationships. Arrange visits and provide opportunities for socializing.
Learn and improve: Learn about how to provide dignified care through training and education. This can help you understand better ways to communicate and respect other's cultures and beliefs.
Protect their rights: Stand up for their rights and make sure they have what they need to be safe and happy. Speak up if you see something unfair or wrong. Help them understand their rights and support their decision-making.
Get feedback: Ask them how they feel about the care they receive and if there’s anything they would like to change. Regularly check in with them and make any necessary changes based on their input. Take their feedback seriously and make improvements if needed.
Remember, these are just some examples of how we can promote dignity in care. The main goal is to treat everyone with respect, empathy, and preserve their dignity throughout the care process.
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