Overview
Research studies have shown inadequacies at the end of life care of older patients, in forms of not receiving basic palliative nursing care or assistance, lack of focus on meeting psychological needs, inadequate pain control, unreliable hospice care due to inadequate staff training, poor symptom control, comorbidity, poor management of drug reactions and lack of psychological and emotional support. Hence, the necessity of palliative nursing care and palliative treatment, tailored to the needs of the elderly.
Palliative treatment aims at the management of symptoms like pain, shortness of breath, nausea, loss of appetite, insomnia, depression, constipation and side effects of a disease and its treatment. By relieving symptoms, palliative nursing care often improves the ability to tolerate medical treatments and the ability to recover, allowing them to have more control and a better understanding of treatment choices.
It helps improve the coordination of care with health care providers, the patient, and the family. It also meets the emotional and provides for the spiritual needs of the patient. Palliative nursing care is helpful for chronically ill and frail elderly with long-standing illnesses.
Needs of a palliative care patient also includes continuity of care that responds to episodic and chronic illnesses, transitioning between levels of care, management of multiple chronic illnesses, assistance in understanding a complex medical system, decision making regarding care and treatment decisions, maintaining functional independence, pain management, and symptom control.
What to do next
- Ask the doctor for a palliative care referral early, not only at the end; it works alongside treatment.
- List the symptoms that trouble your parent most: pain, breathlessness, nausea, poor sleep, constipation, low mood, fear.
- Agree on goals of care with the doctor and family: what matters most now, and what treatments are wanted or not.
- Write down wishes and who will make decisions if your parent cannot; see legal basics: wills and power of attorney.
- Prepare a comfortable room with a good bed, pressure care and a quiet corner; see palliative bedroom comfort.
- Plan support for carers, including breaks.
Day-to-day comfort
Small things matter: turning the person regularly, mouth and skin care, gentle music, favourite foods in small amounts, and having family nearby. See palliative care at home for practical steps and pressure-relieving beds.
Emotional and spiritual care
Fear, sadness and the need to talk or to pray are part of the picture. A counsellor, a spiritual adviser or simply honest conversation can help patients and families.
When to ask a professional
A palliative care doctor and a trained nurse can manage pain and other symptoms; pain relief medicines such as opioids should only be given as prescribed. Our care advisors can arrange home nursing, equipment and coordination with your doctor.
About our care services
Emoha Smart Home Membership Plan is tailored for elders requiring a higher degree of personal care. The palliative care nursing team consists of many professionals like nurses and physiotherapists that are focussed on ensuring high-quality care with any incurable disease, whatever the diagnosis may be.
Equipment mentioned in this guide
Frequently asked questions
Is palliative care the same as end-of-life care?
No. It can start at diagnosis of a serious illness and continue alongside treatment. End-of-life care is one part of it.
Can palliative care be given at home?
Yes, with a doctor, trained nurse, equipment and family support.
Does palliative care mean stopping treatment?
No. It aims to relieve symptoms and support the patient, whatever treatment continues.
How can families cope?
By sharing tasks, talking openly, accepting help and getting support; see [caregiver burnout signs and prevention](/library/caregiver-burnout-signs-and-prevention).
Sources and further reading
- World Health Organization, Palliative care fact sheet
- Indian Association of Palliative Care, patient and family guidance
- National Programme for Palliative Care, Ministry of Health and Family Welfare, India
Tags: Palliative Care #Health #Knowledgepalliative careend of life caresymptom reliefhome nursingCaregiver how-tosAdjustable hospital bedPressure-relief air mattressBeds, mattresses and restIncontinence and hygiene
This article is for general education and is not medical advice. Speak to your doctor before changing your exercise, diet or medicines.
