The Lifeworld Approach to Care is based on a developed person-centred care model that focuses on interpreting a person in a wider temporal frame and beyond the context of their illness/injury.
A developed person-centred model of care that focuses on individuality includes three significant elements: 1. presuppositions, 2. acceptance, and 3. temporality.
Presuppositions
Professionals in any field must remain acutely aware of the impact their presuppositions, preunderstanding, and biases can have on their work. They must acknowledge these inherent beliefs and be open to challenging and expanding their perspectives with new insights and information. In his work from 1975, Gadamer emphasises the importance of not trying to ultimately adopt another person's viewpoint, as it would require disregarding one's deeply ingrained presuppositions and historical consciousness. This advice underscores the significance of maintaining a balance between understanding different perspectives while being grounded in one's intellectual framework. By recognising and critically examining their presuppositions, professionals can enhance their ability to engage with diverse viewpoints and enrich their decision-making processes.
2. Acceptance
Professionals in the field must adopt a patient-centred approach that prioritises accepting the individual's unique needs and experiences. Rather than imposing preconceived theories or professional biases, they should be open to what the patient presents. Acceptance entails acknowledging and addressing existential concerns such as loss, uncertainty, and mortality, which are integral aspects of cancer care. Furthermore, professionals should recognise and respect patients' autonomy, especially in cases such as Motor Neurone Disease (MND), where individuals may choose not to follow the typical illness trajectory. Patients should be free to decline specific treatments and have a say in their end-of-life preferences, including decisions on how and where they wish to pass away. By embracing these principles, professionals can provide more compassionate and personalised care that truly meets the needs of each individual.
3. Temporality
Professionals in various fields, such as healthcare, psychology, and social work, must deeply understand individuals beyond the context of their illness/injury. This entails understanding the temporal context that shapes a person's life, encompassing their past, present, and future.
When individuals interact with the world, they do so through the lens of their unique temporal dimensions. The present moment influences their decisions and actions, while their aspirations for the future drive their goals and ambitions. Simultaneously, they constantly reinterpret and redefine their past experiences, integrating them into their present identity.
By recognising and appreciating these intricate temporal dynamics, professionals can offer more holistic and practical support to individuals in need. This comprehensive approach acknowledges the complexity of human existence and empowers individuals to navigate their challenges with a more profound sense of understanding and resilience.
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