What principle underlies person-centered care in long-term care?

Person-centered care in long-term care is fundamentally about recognizing and addressing the unique needs, preferences, and values of individual residents. This approach shifts the focus from a one-size-fits-all model of care to one that is tailored to each resident. It emphasizes the importance of engaging residents in their own care, considering their personal histories, cultural backgrounds, and specific desires regarding how they wish to live and receive care.

By concentrating on the individual, person-centered care seeks to enhance the quality of life for residents, foster their independence, and promote their dignity. This model also encourages active participation from residents in decision-making processes, which can lead to increased satisfaction with care and better overall outcomes.

This principle stands in contrast to options that advocate for standardization, prioritize clinical efficiency over personal preferences, or focus solely on profitability, which do not embrace the individualized approach that person-centered care champions.