Care plans need to be developed directly with the older person, by the interdisciplinary team and in cooperation with family. The care plan should emphasise the older person’s strengths and remaining abilities rather than focus on deficits and problems. The concept of informed flexibility, defined as facilitating decision making through sharing of information and integrating new information into care practices and perspectives, is one central constituent of person‑centred care (Edvardsson et al 2008). In the case of Ronnie, he could share valuable information about Emmy with staff to integrate in daily practice. Also, taking part in planning for Emmy’s stay might have facilitated a mutual understanding between him and the staff in addition to benefiting Emmy’s care.