The Implementation of a Model of Person-Centred Practice In Older ...

The implementation of a model of person-centred practice in older person settings
“What’s your story” led to the development of residents’ life story books, in order to
provide engagement, discussion and connection with residents and their families.
As a result of the actions outlined above, increased awareness of person-centred
processes grew. Participants became more empowered, and became aware of the
process of achieving change and utilising it. Residents’ choice and voice were heard
regarding ward processes. For example the establishment of residents’ support
groups was of great benefit to the residents in order to improve their overall quality of
life and their environment. Increased interaction with residents and their families was
developed through ‘life stories’.
The social and aesthetic aspects of mealtimes were improved by including the use of
table cloths, jugs, serviettes and glasses on tables; television is turned off during
mealtimes; all clutter/equipment is removed from dining room areas; liquidised diets
are presented in a more appetising manner; and as a result of residents’ meetings in
one site, fruit is now on offer in the afternoons.
Phase 3 (final) data collection findings (June 2009)
As a result of phase three data collection in June 2009, the final evaluation findings
were as follows. Environmental issues continue to be a problem with most wards
needing painting and decorating. Lack of privacy is very evident where some wards
do not have doors at the entrances to their 6 bedded bays. A number of residents
appeared to have no particular purpose to their day or a lack of appropriate activities
for them was evident.
Although it is difficult to transform culture and break away from routine, sometimes
little changes are as significant as major modifications. However the ongoing
moratorium on staff recruitment within the HSE makes it more difficult to maintain the
momentum of implementing change. It takes time and energy to eliminate comments
like “this is the way things are done around here” and to sustain change.
Nevertheless the biomedical model is less evident in favour of the person-centred
model of care.
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