Person-centred care isn't a buzzword it's about lives

Carer Academy | Written by Jill Hudson

Person-centred care isn’t a buzzword — it’s the difference between ticking a box and changing a life.

We talk a lot about person-centred care in training, policies, and audits.
But what does it actually look like when you’re mid-shift, juggling five visits, running behind, and trying to remember who takes sugar in their tea?

That’s what this blog is about — making person-centred care real, even on busy days.

Because it’s not about doing more.
It’s about doing the same tasks — with a different mindset.

We’ll walk through:

How to adapt support around real preferences
How to build trust quickly (yes, it’s possible!)
Balancing care tasks with meaningful connection
Plus, a free “Getting to Know You” worksheet to make care more personal from Day 1

What Is Person-Centred Care, Really?

Person-centred care means seeing the person first — not just the task, condition, or time slot.

It’s about:

Respecting someone’s routine, culture, beliefs, and preferences
Giving people choices — even in the small stuff
Focusing on what matters to them, not just what matters for them

You can provide personal care without being person-centred.
But when you combine skill with sensitivity, that’s when care becomes powerful.

How to Adapt Support Around Preferences

You don’t need an hour-long chat to personalise care.

Try these quick switches:

Instead of: “Time to get up.”
Try: “Would you like to get up now or in 10 minutes?”
Instead of: “I’m here to help with washing.”
Try: “Do you prefer the shower or a quick wash today?”
Instead of: “I’ve made you breakfast.”
Try: “Would you like your tea before or after breakfast?”

Small changes. Massive impact.
When people feel in control, they feel safe.

Building Trust in 10 Minutes or Less

You don’t need hours to build rapport — just presence, tone, and curiosity.

3 Things That Build Trust Quickly:

Use their name — and pronounce it right
Match their pace – If they’re quiet and slow, don’t rush. If they like chat, lean in
Ask a personal question –

“How did you sleep?”
“Remind me, are you a tea or coffee person?”
“Are you watching anything good on telly this week?”

Trust grows when people feel:

Heard
Remembered
Respected

Balancing Tasks with Connection

We know the pressure is real.
>You have tasks. You have a rota. You have another call waiting.

But here’s a truth I’ve learned after visiting hundreds of care teams:

When connection comes first, tasks go smoother.

A two-minute chat can calm anxiety.
A moment of eye contact can lift someone’s confidence.
A smile and a “you’re doing great” can turn a tough morning around.

You’ll still complete your tasks — but you’ll do it with the person, not to them.

Use the “Getting to Know You” Worksheet

The best way to deliver person-centred care is to actually know the person.

Download our free template to help carers quickly learn what matters most — and keep that knowledge front and centre in every visit.

Download the “Getting to Know You” Worksheet

What it includes:

Daily preferences (tea/coffee, routines, music)
Cultural/religious needs
Communication style
Mobility or sensory support
What comforts them on a tough day
What matters most — family, faith, music, humour?

Keep a copy in the care file or your shift notes. Update it regularly.
Person-centred care starts with curiosity.

Quick Examples from Real Life

Scenario 1:

Client: Mrs. Ahmed
Change: You learned she prays before breakfast — so you adjust your routine and give her 5 minutes of quiet before the meal.
Impact: She’s more peaceful, you’re less rushed, and her family feels seen.

Scenario 2:

Client: Mr. Thompson
Change: Instead of washing him in silence, you ask about his Army days — which he loves to talk about.
Impact: He starts smiling during care, opens up more and becomes less resistant to personal care tasks.

Scenario 3:

Client: Ms. Rivera
Change: You learn she hates mornings. You start her visit with soft music and light conversation instead of straight into care.
Impact: Her mood improves, and your day starts better too.

Quick Checklist: Delivering Person-Centred Care in Real Life

Habit	Why It Matters
Use their name and preferences	Shows respect and memory
Ask open questions	Builds trust and comfort
Give small choices	Empowers the client
Match their pace and tone	Reduces anxiety
Document their preferences	Makes it easier for others to follow
Check in emotionally, not just physically	Makes them feel human, not a task