Many older adults and their families face the challenge of maintaining independence while receiving care.
At StellarCare, we believe that person-centred care is the key. By focusing on the individual’s values and preferences, we help clients live more independently, and with greater dignity. In this article, we’ll explore how person-centred care fosters independence, why it matters, and how families can support the process.
What is Person-Centred Care?
First of all, let’s define person-centred care. Person-centred care places the individual at the heart of care planning and delivery. In other words, it shifts away from a one-size-fits-all approach and instead listens to the person’s likes, dislikes, life story and goals. As a result, care becomes more meaningful and empowering. Moreover, research shows that this approach can lead to better outcomes, including improved mood, higher satisfaction and increased activity levels.
Why Independence Matters in Later Life
Secondly, independence matters—both for the individual and for their loved ones. When people retain control over their choices, they are more likely to feel confident and fulfilled. Likewise, families notice the difference: when a care provider treats the person as an active partner rather than a passive recipient, relationships improve. Therefore, enabling independence is not just a ‘nice to have’ — it is central to wellbeing.
How Person-Centred Care Promotes Independence
In practical terms, here are several ways person-centred care supports independence:
Tailored daily routines: Instead of imposing a rigid schedule, carers work with the person to adapt tasks such as bathing, meals and outings in a way that honours their rhythm and preferences. For example, if someone likes a late breakfast, the schedule is adjusted accordingly.
Choice and control: Individuals are involved in decision-making — choosing what they wear, when they move rooms, or how they spend their day. Consequently, they maintain a sense of agency rather than feeling their life is being managed for them.
Strengths-based approach: Rather than emphasising deficits, person-centred care recognises what the person can do and builds on those abilities. In addition, this encourages activity and engagement rather than passivity.
Supportive environment: The carer works alongside the individual — for instance, rather than doing a task for someone, they might assist someone, encouraging as much independence as possible. This way, the person retains skills and confidence.
Real-Life Example
Take Mrs Green (name changed for privacy). When she started home-care, she believed she had lost most control of her life. However, once her care plan shifted to being genuinely person-centred, things changed. For example, she began choosing her favourite breakfast time, resumed her gardening with a carer’s help, and made decisions about her outings. As a result, Mrs Green felt more like herself—and her family noticed how much happier she was.
Barriers to Independence and How to Overcome Them
Of course, enabling independence isn’t always straightforward. Some common barriers include:
Fear of risk: Families and providers sometimes worry that giving more independence invites danger. Nevertheless, with proper risk assessments and safe practices, independence and safety can co-exist.
Fixed routines: Traditional care models often impose time-slots and tasks without flexibility. Therefore, moving to a person-centred model means reviewing those routines and redesigning care.
Lack of engagement: If the person isn’t involved in planning, they may feel passive. On the other hand, when they’re central to the process, engagement improves. Hence, involving them from the start is vital.
Tips for Families and Carers
For families and carers who want to support independence, here are some practical tips:
1. Begin the conversation together: Ask the person what matters most to them. Then build their care plan around those priorities.
2. Encourage involvement: Let the person make choices — even small ones matter. For instance, what to wear, what to eat, or how to spend the afternoon.
3. Focus on abilities: Support what the person can do rather than focusing only on what they cannot. That shift in mindset matters.
4. Revisit the plan regularly: Because needs and preferences evolve, the care plan should be dynamic — reviewed periodically and adapted.
5. Balance risk and independence: While safety is important, it shouldn’t come at the cost of autonomy. Find the sweet spot by assessing together.
Conclusion
In short, person-centred care is not just a buzz-word—it is a meaningful approach that can enable independence and enhance quality of life for older adults. At StellarCare, we are committed to ensuring each individual’s voice is heard, each preference respected, and each step of support designed to empower rather than restrict. If you’d like to learn more or explore how our services can help someone you care for, please get in touch.