Meeting the needs of people with learning disabilities: developing an interactive model of care

Abstract

This paper describes the development and implementation of a model of care specifically designed to meet the complex needs of people with learning disabilities. This interactive model of nursing has been developed, implemented and evaluated in practice areas during the past 2 years. It is apparent from the data collected, that this model of nursing has moved carers' perceptions towards a more holistic understanding of their clients' needs. This has been achieved through a greater understanding of the inter-relationship between internal and external factors that, together, make us who we are. The necessity for carers to use their knowledge of health and the social sciences and their inter-relationship during the assessment process, demonstrates how accurate interpretation and synthesis of data creates an holistic profile of each individual. This enables carers to understand the clients' difficulties and how they may be overcome through appropriate care delivery. This model has been developed with the specific aim of enhancing quality of life through gains in health and total well-being.