What is Person Centred Planning

Person centred planning is a set of approaches designed to assist someone plan their life with support. It is most often used as a model to enable people with disabilities or otherwise requiring support to increase their personal self determination and improve their own independence. It discovers and acts on what is important to the person.
In dementia care is a key aspect of best practice. It is a way of caring for a person with dementia as an individual with unique qualities. It means looking at the world from the person’s point of view ‘standing in their place’ as it were and appreciating how they may be feeling.
Instead of treating all people with dementia the same – it makes the care you give
The plan should result in actions that are about life, not just services, and reflect what is possible, not just what is available. It should be a life process of ongoing listening, learning and further action.
Person centred planning should empowering for the individual. It should enable them to lead life to the fullness of their capabilities, to be as independent as possible.
‘Person centred planning is now evidenced based practice. Recent research has shown that person centred planning led to significant changes in the areas of social networks; contact with family; contact with family; contact with friends; community based activities; scheduled day activities; and levels of choice.’ (www.helensandersonassociates.co.uk)

How does active participation enhance the well being and quality of life for the individual?

Active participation is a way of working that recognises an individual’s right to participate in the activities and relationships of everyday life as independently as possible; the individual is regarded as an active partner in their own care or support, rather than a passive recipient.
Benefits of active participation include a sense of well being, sense of purpose, engagement, achievement, stimulation – both physical and mental.
Ways of encouraging participation include: discussion and encouragement with the individual, providing useful information, using friends and family to encourage