Providing end-of-life care

One of the toughest situations, and possibly most rewarding, is taking care of someone who is in the final stages of a life-threatening illness. Hospice palliative care is a broad term used to identify a standard of care that encompasses both loved ones and their caregivers. It refers to a holistic, multi-disciplinary approach that aims to improve the client’s quality of life. Hospice palliative care can be provided in a hospital, hospice, or in the home environment. Emphasis is on providing as much physical, psychological and emotional comfort as possible for patients and their caregivers.

In the advanced stages of illness, quality of life, rather than length of life, is usually the priority. End-of-life care is different for everyone, as each of us has unique practical, medical, personal and spiritual needs. Care teams in palliative care services are experienced in providing information and support in tune with individual needs.