Care Ecosystem Guide.pdf

An Atlas CareMap is a drawing and process for self-reflection and action, providing a catalyst for conversation. It is a visual representation of a family's care ecosystem, showing who supports whom and how. The map includes "Actors" (people, pets, professionals, and places) and "Links" (arrows indicating support provided).

Key Components:

Actors: represented by different symbols
Links: arrows connecting Actors, indicating support provided
Placement: corresponds roughly to where Actors live

Benefits:

Clarifies one's situation and helps describe it to others
Respected more than verbal descriptions
Can be drawn by hand or using a webapp (AtlasCareMap.org)

Example:

Christi's hand-drawn Atlas CareMap shows her family's caring relationships, with multiple relatives and professionals supporting each other. A webapp-created map includes more details, such as different colored Links indicating types of support.

Transformative Conversations:

Sharing Atlas CareMaps with relatives and friends can lead to understanding, appreciation, and support. It generates empathy and knowledge sharing, and may inspire others to draw their own maps.

Process:

1. Drawing: creates a visual representation of the care ecosystem
2. Reflection: thinking about questions and answers provides clarity and new perspectives
3. Action: depends on individual circumstances, but can help plan for difficulties, manage people involved, identify missing services, and communicate with everyone.

Stories:

Betty drew her map and became aware of her overwhelming situation, leading to a new perspective
Others have used Atlas CareMaps to appreciate what is working well, identify areas for improvement, and spark transformative conversations.