What is Palliative Care?

HCC Blog Featured Image Palliative Care

Palliative care is a specialized form of medical care focused on improving the quality of life for those with serious, chronic, or life-limiting illnesses. It addresses the physical, emotional, psychological, social, and spiritual needs of patients and their families.

This specialized care can be provided alongside curative treatments, or as the main focus when curative options are no longer viable. Below, we outline some key information and helpful tips on palliative care to better understand its role and implementation.

“People need to know that unlike hospice, palliative care
isn’t just for the sick and dying. It’s for the sick and living.”

AARP

The Core Principles of Palliative Care

According to the World Health Organization, palliative care “is a crucial part of integrated, people-centered health services. Whether the cause of suffering is cardiovascular disease, cancer, major organ failure, drug-resistant tuberculosis, severe burns, end-stage chronic illness, acute trauma, extreme birth prematurity, or extreme frailty of old age, palliative care may be needed and has to be available at all levels of care”.

Approaches that have been proven to help include:

Patient-Centered Care
It’s essential to prioritize the preferences, values, and goals of the patient. It ensures that care decisions are aligned with what matters most to the individual.

Holistic Approach
This care model addresses more than just physical symptoms – incorporating emotional, psychological, social, and spiritual aspects of well-being. The connections are important.

Interdisciplinary Teamwork
Palliative care teams often include doctors, nurses, social workers, chaplains, and other specialists working together to provide comprehensive support.

Communication
Open and honest communication between healthcare providers, patients, and families is vital. This ensures everyone understands the prognosis, treatment options, and care goals.

“The focus is really on relieving pain and discomfort, reducing stress,
helping the person have the highest quality of life that they can – at any stage.”

Alzheimer’s Association

Proven Benefits of Palliative Care

Research has pinpointed several significant benefits of palliative care for
patients and their families:

Improved Quality of Life and Mood
Patients often experience reduced pain, nausea, breathlessness,
and fatigue when receiving palliative care.

Emotional Support
Helps alleviate anxiety, depression, and fear associated with serious illnesses.

Better Symptom Management
Effective strategies are used to manage complex symptoms, improving comfort.

Enhanced Family Support

Caregivers and family members receive guidance and respite,
reducing their stress and burnout.

Decreased Need for Therapy at End of Life
Proper care early on can impact type and duration of treatments later.

Longer Survival Rates
In some cases, integrating palliative care early has been associated with longer life expectancy, as better symptom management can improve overall health.

When to Initiate Palliative Care

Palliative care can be introduced at any stage of a serious illness, regardless of the prognosis. However, early integration has been shown to improve quality of life and survival. Common scenarios include:

Managing chronic illnesses such as cancer, heart failure, chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD), or kidney disease.

Addressing symptoms of neurodegenerative diseases like Parkinson’s or Alzheimer’s.

Providing support after significant medical interventions or surgeries.

Tips for Patients and Families

Understand Your Options
Learn about available palliative care services and how they can fit into the overall treatment plan. Ask your healthcare provider for referrals or recommendations.

Establish Goals of Care
Discuss your priorities and goals with your care team and loved ones. This could
include pain management, staying at home, or participating in specific activities.

Always Ask Questions
Don’t hesitate to ask your palliative care team about treatment options,
potential side effects, or resources for additional support.

Be Open About Symptoms
Report any symptoms or changes in your loved one’s condition promptly.
This allows your care team to address issues quickly.Utilize Advance Care Planning
Create advance directives, such as living wills and durable powers of attorney,
to ensure your wishes are respected if you cannot communicate them yourself.

Tips for Caregivers

Remember to Take Care of Yourself
Caregiving can be physically and emotionally draining. Prioritize self-care
by setting aside time for rest, exercise, and hobbies.

Seek Support
Join caregiver support groups or counseling sessions to share experiences
and learn from others in similar situations.

Learn About the Condition
Educate yourself about the patient’s illness to better understand their
needs and anticipate any challenges.

Delegate Tasks
Graciously accept help from friends, family, or community resources to lighten
your caregiving responsibilities.

Integrating Palliative Care into Daily Life

Pain Management
Use prescribed medications, physical therapy, or complementary therapies such as acupuncture or massage to address pain effectively.

Nutrition and Hydration
Work with a dietitian to develop a plan that supports the patient’s needs and preferences.

Physical Activity
Gentle exercises, such as walking or yoga, can improve mood and mobility.

Emotional Support
Engage in activities that bring joy, whether it’s listening to music, spending time
outdoors, or connecting with loved ones.

Spiritual Care
Access chaplaincy services or personal spiritual practices for comfort and meaning.

Overcoming Common Barriers

Misconceptions
Many people mistakenly associate palliative care exclusively with end-of-life care. Educating patients and families about its broader applications can help.
Remember, palliative care isn’t just for the sick and dying – it’s for the sick and living.

Access Issues
Advocate for policies and programs that expand access to palliative care,
especially in underserved communities.

Cultural Sensitivity
Tailor care to respect cultural, religious, and personal values. Open dialogue about preferences can foster trust and better outcomes.

Resources for Palliative Care

Hospice Organizations: Provide end-of-life care and support.

Palliative Care Clinics: Offer specialized outpatient services.

Educational Materials: Books, online courses, and support groups can help
patients and caregivers better understand palliative care.

Professional Groups: National Hospice and Palliative Care, Organization (NHPCO) or the Center to Advance Palliative Care (CAPC) provide valuable resources and guidance.

Sources:

AARP

Alzheimer’s Association

World Health Organization

National Library of Medicine

Skip to content