How to Write a Care Plan in a Care Home
Moving into a care home can be a big step for anyone, whether it’s for residential support, dementia care, respite, or other needs. One of the most important tools to ensure smooth, high-quality care is a well-prepared care plan tailored to the individual. But what exactly is a care plan, and how is it created?
What is a Care Plan?
A care plan is essentially a detailed, living document that outlines how the care team will support a resident's unique needs. It includes vital information such as health conditions, medication details, dietary needs, personal likes and dislikes, daily routines, and goals.
Before a resident even moves in, care staff work closely with the individual and their family to develop this plan, ensuring the support feels personalised and comfortable from day one.
Embracing Person-Centred Care
At Amwell Care Home, we believe care plans should revolve around the individual, not the other way around. This is what person-centred care means: recognising that every resident has their own story, preferences, routines, and dreams.
When writing a care plan, it's important to ask questions like:
- What makes you feel most at home?
- What activities bring you joy?
- How much support do you want to maintain independence?
- Are there routines or habits you want to keep?
- Who are your loved ones and how can they be involved?
- What goals, both short and long term, are important to you?
This approach helps to tailor care that respects and enhances each person’s quality of life, not just their physical needs but their emotional and social wellbeing too.
The Care Plan Creation and Review Process
Creating a care plan begins with a comprehensive assessment by a skilled care team. They'll look at the resident’s medical history, current health, hobbies, and aspirations. This process involves the resident and their family as much as possible, encouraging open conversations and shared decision-making.
A care plan isn’t set in stone. It’s regularly reviewed and updated to reflect any changes in health or preferences, which is especially important for those living with progressive conditions such as dementia. Keeping the care plan current ensures the best possible support at all times.
Using Nourish to Support Person-Centred Care
In many care homes, including The Amwell, care planning is supported by digital tools like Nourish. Nourish is a comprehensive documentation system that helps staff record, track, and update care plans accurately and efficiently. It ensures that all team members have access to up-to-date information about each resident’s needs and preferences, promoting consistency and personalised support. This technology also aids in monitoring nutrition and hydration, which are vital elements of a resident’s wellbeing.
Supporting Emotional Wellbeing
Physical health is crucial, but so is mental and emotional health. A strong care plan includes activities and social opportunities that help residents stay connected, build confidence, and find meaning every day.
Working Together: Families and Professionals
Writing and maintaining a care plan is a team effort. Families, care staff, GPs, and therapists all play a part in ensuring consistent and personalised care. This partnership also offers peace of mind for loved ones, knowing that every aspect of care is coordinated and responsive.
For residents who have a power of attorney, their input is invaluable in helping us understand the resident’s history and preferences, allowing us to provide truly person-centred support.
How Care Plans Change Over Time
As needs evolve, so do care plans. Whether it’s a new health diagnosis, changes in mobility, or shifting preferences, updates to the care plan help us continue providing the right level of support. For those nearing the end of life, care plans may also include sensitive discussions about palliative and end-of-life wishes, always handled with compassion and respect.
Enjoy a Personalised Lifestyle at Amwell Care Home
At Amwell we understand that each resident is completely unique. Our person-centred care plans are designed to support independence, comfort, and happiness, making sure everyone feels truly at home. Our compassionate team works closely with residents, families, and healthcare professionals to provide care that’s as individual as the people we support.
From tailored activities and social opportunities to the nourishing meals served daily, everything we do is about enhancing quality of life.
If you’d like to learn more about how we create and use care plans at Amwell, or to see our home for yourself, please get in touch to arrange a visit. We’d be delighted to welcome you!
