Palliative Care
People with terminal illnesses can receive palliative care for emotional and practical support.
What is palliative care?
Palliative care is usually provided to patients suffering from serious illnesses such as cancer, heart failure, chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD), and neurological conditions such as Alzheimer’s disease and Parkinson’s disease. Most of these conditions require ongoing care and support, making it necessary to have palliative care in domiciliary care settings.
Palliative care with domiciliary care
Domiciliary care is an essential part of palliative care as it offers patients the opportunity to receive care in the comfort of their own home. This can provide a sense of familiarity and normalcy that can be comforting for patients during a challenging time. Domiciliary care providers offer a range of services to patients, including medication management, pain management, and emotional support. They also provide practical assistance with activities of daily living such as bathing, dressing, and meal preparation.
When a loved one is diagnosed with a life-limiting illness or reaches the end of their life, they require specialized care and support. Palliative care is an approach that focuses on improving the quality of life of patients and their families through symptom management, pain relief, and emotional and spiritual support. Carers play a crucial role in palliative care, providing physical, emotional, and practical assistance to the person in need.
- Assessing the needs of the person: The first task of a carer is to understand the needs and preferences of the person in need. This includes understanding their physical, emotional, and spiritual needs, as well as their preferences for pain relief, medication, and end-of-life care.
- Managing symptoms: Palliative care may involve managing the symptoms of an illness, such as pain, nausea, vomiting, and fatigue. Carers may assist in administering medication, ensuring the person is comfortable, and communicating with healthcare professionals about any changes in symptoms
- Providing personal care: Carers may assist with daily living activities, such as bathing, dressing, and grooming. This can help the person maintain their dignity and independence.
- Emotional support: Palliative care can be a challenging and emotional time for both the person in need and their family. Carers may provide emotional support through active listening, offering comfort, and helping the person stay connected with family and friends.
- Spiritual support: Some people may require spiritual support, such as prayer, meditation, or talking to a spiritual advisor. Carers can assist in facilitating these practices and provide a listening ear for spiritual concerns.
- Communicating with healthcare professionals: Palliative care often requires coordination between multiple healthcare professionals, such as doctors, nurses, and hospice providers. Carers can help ensure that everyone is on the same page and communicate the needs and preferences of the person.