Understanding Care Plans
Understanding Care Plans
A Guide for Residents and Families at Foxburrow Grange
At Foxburrow Grange, we believe in providing the highest quality care that is both personalised and effective. A cornerstone of this approach is the development of a comprehensive care plan for each resident. This guide provides a deeper understanding of care plans and how they contribute to a positive and fulfilling living experience at our care home in Colchester.
What is a Care Plan?
A care plan is a comprehensive document that outlines the specific care and support services required to meet an individual's unique needs. It serves as a valuable tool for care professionals, ensuring that the care provided is tailored to the individual's specific requirements.
Care plans typically include detailed information about the individual's medical history, functional abilities, and preferences. They also outline the specific services needed, such as personal care, medication management, or specialised therapies. Additionally, care plans may include information about the individual's living arrangements, support network, and financial resources.
By providing a clear and comprehensive overview of the individual's needs and preferences, care plans help to ensure that care is delivered consistently, effectively, and in a way that is aligned with the
individual's goals and wishes. This, in turn, can lead to improved outcomes, reduced stress, and increased satisfaction for both the individual receiving care and their loved ones.
Also, care plans can serve as a valuable communication toolbetween the individual, their family members, and their care providers. They can help to facilitate open and honest discussions about the individual's care needs and preferences and can help to ensure that everyone is on the same page.
Key Components of a Care Plan:
- Assessment of Needs: A thorough assessment is conducted to understand each resident's physical, emotional, and social needs. This includes:
- Medical History: A review of past and present medical conditions, medications, and any relevant allergies.
- Functional Assessment: An evaluation of the resident's physical abilities, including mobility, continence, and activities of daily living (ADLs) such as dressing, bathing, and eating.
- Cognitive Assessment: An assessment of the resident's cognitive abilities, including memory, communication, and decision-making capacity.
- Social and Emotional Needs: An evaluation of the resident's social and emotional well-being, including their interests, hobbies, social connections, and any emotional support needs.
- Care Goals: Based on the assessment, we work with the resident (and their family, if applicable) to establish clear and achievable care goals. These goals may include:
- Maintaining or improving physical health and well-being.
- Promoting social interaction and engagement.
- Supporting emotional and psychological well-being.
- Maintaining independence and dignity.
- Care Interventions: The care plan outlines the specific interventions required to achieve the established goals. These may include:
- Personal Care: Assistance with activities of daily living, such as bathing, dressing, and toileting.
- Medication Management: Assistance with administering medications and monitoring for side effects.
- Dietary Support: Assistance with meal planning, preparation, and special dietary requirements.
- Social and Recreational Activities: Participation in social events, group activities, and outings.
- Cognitive Stimulation: Activities to maintain and improve cognitive function, such as puzzles, games, and memory exercises.
- End-of-Life Care: Advance care planning and support for residents and their families.
The Care Planning Process
A care plan is created as the result of a various care need assessments.
The assessment will be initially undertaken by an Essex Council professional, then at Foxburrow we will conduct an assessment of a person’s needs prior to them residing in our care home too. We conduct a thorough pre admission assessment to ensure we understand the needs of your loved one. This also gives us the opportunity to gather some more personal information around life history and
any particular interests so we can tailor activities and discussions around shared interests.
Involving the Person and Loved Ones
The most important aspect of care planning is the individual’s involvement. Not only ensuring that their opinions are heard, but that the care plan is agreed and understood. If caring for someone else, you should always involve them in the process and prioritise their wishes.
Appreciatively some individuals requiring care and supportmay encounter difficulty in participating in, or making decisions about, their care and support.
It is always recommended to have a trusted family member or friend involved in the care planning process. Their input can help to ensure that your wishes and preferences are accurately reflected in the care plan
If a person lacks the mental capacity to make decisions independently, a representative may need to be appointed. If a person is unable to fully engage in decision-making and has no one to assist them, the local authority is obligated to provide an advocate.
Financial Assessment
If you have been assessed as requiring a care home placement, a financial assessment will be necessary to determine your eligibility for financial assistance towards your care home fees. A financial assessment is a means test conducted by the local authority based on national guidelines to
determine contributions towards care home fees. If you are deemed ineligible for care, you will receive a letter explaining the reasons and providing information about other organisations or charities that may be able to assist you.
Care Plan Reviews
To ensure that your care plan remains relevant and effective, it should be regularly reviewed and updated. At Foxburrow Grange we review individuals care plans monthly as standard but update as required if there has been a change in need in a particular area.
Regular reviews are crucial to ensure that your care plan continues to meet your changing needs and preferences. As your circumstances evolve, your care requirements may also change. By reviewing your care plan regularly, you can ensure that it remains aligned with your goals and provides the necessary support. By actively participating in care plan reviews, you can help to ensure that you receive the highest quality of care possible.
If you would like to learn more about care at Foxburrow Grange, or if you have any questions about the care planning process, please do not hesitate to contact us.
We are happy to answer any questions you may have and schedule a visit to our home.g review process.