Palliative Care — Support in the Most Difficult Moments

Palliative care focuses on improving quality of life for people with serious, incurable illnesses. Its goal is not cure but alleviating pain and suffering while ensuring dignity in the final stage of life. It supports both the patient and their loved ones.

What is palliative care

It is comprehensive care covering physical, emotional, spiritual, and social aspects. The palliative team includes doctors, nurses, psychologists, and social workers. Palliative care can be provided at home, in hospital, or in a specialist hospice.

Pain and symptom control

Effective pain management is the foundation of palliative care. Modern pharmacology offers effective pain control methods. Nausea, breathlessness, anxiety, and insomnia are also treated. Regular symptom assessment allows treatment adjustment.

Emotional and spiritual support

Psychologists help patients and families cope with fear of death and grief. Conversations about values, memories, and legacy provide a sense of meaning and closure.

The role of family

The presence of loved ones is invaluable support. Family should receive information about the patient’s condition. Family carers themselves need support to avoid burnout.

Palliative care in care homes

Many care homes work with palliative teams to provide comprehensive end-of-life care. On OPK.care you can find facilities offering professional palliative care.