What is the continuum of care for older adults?
A coordinated pathway of support as needs change — from independence → home support → rehab → residential or palliative care. Maintains independence, safety, and wellbeing.
What is the purpose of home-based care and what are examples?
Includes personal care, cleaning, meals, transport, allied health, and home modifications. Supports independence at home.
What is respite care and why is it important?
Short-term relief for carers, provided in-home, community centres, or residential care. Prevents carer burnout and maintains family stability.
What are examples of community and social support services for older adults?
Clubs, Men’s Sheds, day centres, and volunteer visitor programs. Reduces isolation and improves social wellbeing.
What do health and wellness services provide for older adults?
Chronic disease management, falls prevention, exercise, nutrition, and counselling programs. Promotes physical and mental health.
What are transitional and rehabilitation services?
Include the Transition Care Program (TCP) and reablement after hospitalisation. Aids recovery and supports independence after illness or surgery.
What does residential aged care provide?
24-hour personal and nursing care, meals, and activities — regulated by Aged Care Quality Standards. Long-term support for people with high care needs.
What is the focus of palliative care?
Provides comfort, dignity, and holistic support for the person and their family at the end of life — can occur at home, in hospital, or hospice.
What is the nursing role in the continuum of care?
Know available services → refer, advocate, and coordinate care.
Encourage early access to prevent crises.
Collaborate with multidisciplinary teams for continuity.
What is Person-Centred Care (PCC)?
An approach that respects each person’s values, preferences, and life history, treating them as a partner in care
What does respect and dignity mean in PCC?
Use the person’s preferred name, respect their privacy, and honour their choices.
What does autonomy and choice mean in PCC?
Allow the person to make choices about routines, meals, and activities.
What does individualised care involve?
Adapt care plans to reflect the person’s culture, values, and life story.
What does partnership and collaboration mean in PCC?
Involve the person and their family in decisions and goal-setting.
What is the importance of empathy and compassion in PCC?
Listen actively, show patience, and demonstrate genuine understanding.
What does empowerment mean in PCC?
Encourage independence and self-care, helping people retain control over their lives.
How can Person-Centred Care be applied in fitness practice?
Tailor programs to individual goals, celebrate achievements, and value client feedback.
Why is Person-Centred Care important?
Maintains dignity and avoids paternalism
Improves quality of life and emotional wellbeing
Encourages independence and function
Builds trust and strong relationships
Respects culture, spirituality, and identity
How can Person-Centred Care be applied in nursing practice?
Involve clients in care plans, explain procedures, and adjust care to match their preferences.
How does Person-Centred Care support the continuum of care?
Ensures continuity, respect, and identity across all stages — home care, hospital, residential, and palliative — preventing impersonal, institutionalised care.
