A resident was admitted with dementia and unable to make choices for himself. What type of care would be required?

• A. Personal care
• B. Directed care
• C. Medical care
• D. Social care

Answer: (B)

When someone with dementia can’t make choices, the care approach is directed care. This means the caregiver guides decisions and daily routines based on the resident’s care plan and known needs, ensuring safety and consistent support even when the person isn’t able to decide for themselves. It involves implementing established routines, monitoring health and safety, and making day-to-day choices on the resident’s behalf in their best interest. This differs from personal care, which is hands-on help with tasks like bathing and dressing; medical care, which is clinical treatment by health professionals; and social care, which focuses on companionship and emotional support. In dementia where decision-making is impaired, directed care ensures appropriate, safe, and continuous support.