What is the purpose of a "vision statement" in Person Centered Planning?

A vision statement in Person Centered Planning serves a crucial role in articulating the individual’s aspirations and guiding the overall planning process. This statement captures what the person hopes to achieve and represents their dreams and goals, thereby serving as a foundation for personalized planning. By focusing on the aspirations of the individual, the vision statement helps ensure that the planning process remains aligned with their desires and needs, facilitating a more individualized and meaningful approach to their future.

In contrast, summarizing the plan in a brief overview does not capture the depth of an individual’s goals. Outlining past experiences provides useful context but does not drive the future direction of the individual's support and development. Documenting compliance with legal requirements, while important from an administrative perspective, does not provide the personal focus needed in a person-centered approach. A vision statement, therefore, is essential for keeping the planning process oriented towards enhancing the individual’s quality of life and promoting their personal goals.