Who's who in Harry's care team?

A key principle of a partnership approach to care is reciprocity and collegiality.

Reciprocity describes the mutual benefit for all partners-in-care in terms of understanding the perspectives and priorities of others, while collegiality refers to developing more collaborative, productive and respectful approaches to an older person’s care.

By combining these two principles, partnership-centred care aims to deliver better communication and better outcomes for older people and all those involved in their care.

What issues does this approach address?

By embracing this approach, partnership-centred care offers a way for all partners-in-care to more effectively work together and develop care strategies based on the best available clinical evidence.

It takes into account the personal preferences of older people as well as the concerns and priorities of their family, friends and healthcare team.

It also acknowledges and incorporates the regulatory requirements and obligations that are critical for providing safe, quality care.

What issues does this raise?

In this respect, Harry’s story raises some important issues. For example, Harry wants to walk to his friend’s house to see his dog Jetson. Meanwhile, his daughter and facility staff members are concerned about Harry’s health and safety.

Scroll down to find out more about how Harry and each of his partners-in-care view this situation.

Your task

Based on the different perspectives of Harry and his partners-in-care, comment on what opportunities and challenges Harry’s request may represent for each of them. How do your thoughts compare with others?

We also encourage you to use this opportunity to join the conversation and compare your stories and experiences with those of others.