A specialised form of medical care, palliative care is best considered as an approach that is targeted at improving the quality of life the patient has as well as any related issues the patient’s family might be experiencing in relation to it. Palliative care isn’t intended to delay death, it should be viewed as an all-encompassing approach to relieving pain and distress for a patient, their caregivers, and family. Although we hear ‘hospice care’ and palliative care being used interchangeably, it should be noted that the latter can be provided regardless of age, illness, or medical treatment.
Palliative care can be helpful for patients with stressful illnesses such as heart failure, kidney disease, Alzheimer’s, and Amyotrophic Lateral Sclerosis (ALS). Serious illnesses and conditions like these can put physical and emotional strain on not only the patients but their families as well. Enlisting professional help becomes even more important when families double up as caregivers for them. Without proper help and guidance, it can be challenging for families to offer a high quality of care while taking care of their own health.
How can palliative care help?
Focusing on the needs of the patient, palliative care is provided by a special team of doctors and nurses that work in conjunction with the patient’s other doctors to cement the layer of support. It need not only be put in practice when one is nearing the end of his or her life but can also be effectively provided during the medical or curative treatment.
1. Relieves suffering
The demand for palliative care only increases with an aging population, like in Singapore. By 2035, it is expected that approximately 32 percent of Singaporeans will be aged 65 and above. Not just for the terminally ill, the collaborative support that a team of doctors, nurses, and social workers can offer with palliative care can tremendously relieve the psychological and physical issues faced.
- Physical: Managing symptoms to lower discomfort.
- Psychological: Fulfilling the patient’s goals and providing mental health support for both the patient and the caregiver.
2. Integrates care plan for higher life quality
As palliative care is a holistic approach, patients will benefit from the additional support coming in the form of emotional and social help. Dealing with serious illnesses over the long term can have serious impacts on the emotional well-being of both patient and caregiver. With a dedicated team, there is better management and communication.
Why is palliative care important to consider as part of caregiving services?
Because most patients with cancer, cardiovascular problems, or dementia experience moderate to severe pain at the end of their lives, palliative care then becomes essential in helping them manage pain and emotional distress. It can be hard for families who double up as caregivers to know for certain when a loved one is in distress or is approaching death.
By calling on palliative care services, we can help our loved ones live more comfortable and enjoyable lives.
Access to palliative care | Seek caregiving services from our JagaPros
A large majority would choose to spend their last days surrounded by their loved ones and offering integrated caregiving services that include palliative care can be the best way to go forward about it. The emotional weight of caregiving on a full-time basis can be challenging. With our home care services, you can trust in our expertise and partner with our nurses to provide your loved one with a manageable day-to-day life.
For more information on acquiring support for loved ones, read more here.
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