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Understanding Palliative Care

July 12, 2024
There can be confusion between the different types of specialized care available to elderly loved ones who suffer from a chronic illness – or even the chronic symptoms of a medical condition. Curative, palliative and hospice can all play a role in their medical care, but each type is distinctively different and appropriate in unique stages of the aging loved one’s medical situation

Unlike hospice care which addresses the end of life needs, palliative care is a specialized form of healthcare that focuses on a wholistic approach to managing illness for a better overall quality of life. It encompasses a team approach in order to address the physicial, emotional and even spritual needs of the patient, their family and carers.

Palliative care can be administered in the comfort of the elder’s home. This type of care may include nurses, social workers, therapists, chaplains, and psychologists. For example, a care plan can include in-home nurse visits, physical and occupational therapy, pain management and a chaplain. The medical team in collaboration with the in-home care provider, develops a comprehensive treatment plan that addresses the specific needs of the loved one.

Because it is a care that specializes in wholistic treatment, it can have many positive effects on the elderly loved one as well as the in-home care provider. 

• It helps manage or improve physical conditions that cause immobility, pain or inability to handle daily life activities such as personal hygiene.
• It alleviates emotional stressors for both the patient and especially the in-home care provider who also needs to be emotionally prepared for daily care requirements
• It addresses the goals and values of the patient by designing a plan that considers their wants and needs in daily life
• It can improve the overall quality of life for both the patient and the care provider If you think your loved is in need of this type of care, meet with their physician and express your thoughts and concerns.

If you think your aging loved one is in need of this type of care, meet with their physician and express your thoughts and observations.