What does the term "holistic care" refer to?

The term "holistic care" refers to the approach of treating the individual as a whole person, taking into account not just their physical health but also their emotional, social, and psychological well-being. This perspective recognizes that various factors, including lifestyle, environment, and personal beliefs, can impact a person's overall health and quality of life. By addressing all dimensions of a person's experience, holistic care aims to promote healing and well-being in a more comprehensive and effective manner.

This approach contrasts sharply with focusing solely on physical health, which neglects the significant influence that emotional and psychological factors can have on an individual's overall condition. Providing care without emotional support would miss essential aspects of a person's needs, which can be detrimental to their recovery and health management. Similarly, assessing only the medical history of a patient would omit important lifestyle and emotional context that can inform the care plan, leading to a less effective approach to health and well-being.