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Helping Harry

Watch this video to see how a partnership approach to care can help resolve issues and benefit older people in care settings.
10.1
Harry became increasingly withdrawn and upset at not being able to see his dog, Jetson. Concerned about Harry’s wellbeing, a meeting was called to discuss what could be done. In the meeting, Harry’s healthcare team explained that they were worried about Harry’s health and safety. His children agreed– [Michael] We want you to be happy, Dad. [Sarah] And we want you to be safe as well. but understood that it was important for Harry to make his own decisions and maintain control over his life. Harry appreciates his family’s and carers’ concerns. Deep down, he knows that he’s not as independent as he used to be. But seeing Jetson is really important to him.
54.8
After listening to Harry, his family and carers, and considering the situation from all perspectives, Rosie proposes a solution. Following the meeting, a plan was put in place for Jetson to come and visit once a week. And as Pietro and Harry play cards, Jetson sits at Harry’s feet, just as he’s always done. Now, not only is Harry much happier, so are his family and carers. [Sarah] How’s Dad going, Jim? [Carer] Yeah, he’s going great. In fact, thanks to a partnership-centred care approach, everyone is doing better.

The partnership approach to care is modelled on evidence-based, best-practice approaches to caring for older people in a range of supported settings.

As you’ve discovered, a key feature of this approach is about bringing the different partners-in-care together, listening to their perspectives and respecting their points of view.

How does this help Harry?

After Harry became upset about not being able to visit Jetson, Harry’s healthcare manager, Rosie, set up a meeting between Harry, his family and healthcare team. The purpose of this meeting is to better understand Harry’s issues and discuss possible solutions.

Your task

Watch the video and, in the comments, add your thoughts about this partnership-centred approach.

  • Do you agree with this solution? Why or why not?
  • Do you anticipate any potential issues with these arrangements? If so, how would you resolve them?
  • What other possible solutions could you suggest?
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Caring for Older People: a Partnership Model

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FutureLearn - Learning For Life

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