Most people associate palliative care with end-of-life care, like hospice. This is not exactly the case. Although this specialty may have begun that way, it has evolved to include much more for patients, their families, and caregivers. This relatively new medical specialty has specific goals and is recommended for many patients. When is palliative care recommended?
What Are the Goals and Purpose of Palliative Care?
The main goal of palliative care is to relieve suffering through symptom management as well as to provide the best quality of life for the patient and their family members. Palliative comes from the Latin word palliare which means “to cloak.” It follows that it is an extra layer of support for those of any age and through any stage of a life-threatening disease.
The patient is basically in control as they decide what quality of life means for them. Patients can even move in and out of palliative care as needed.
The support includes education, caregiver home support, spiritual support, shopping and meal preparation, respite care for family caregivers, and more.
Palliative care is available for those suffering with cancer, chronic lung disease, heart disease, AIDS, Alzheimer’s disease, MS, ALS, and many others.
Working With Curative Care
Just because a patient is receiving palliative care it does not mean they give up pursuing a cure for their illness. Palliative care happens simultaneously as they maintain all their regular doctors and treatment specialists.
When Is It Time for Palliative Care?
You or your family can choose to begin palliative care as soon as you are diagnosed with a serious illness, and your doctor will most likely recommend it at that point.
Results from research, including from the New England Journal of Medicine, have shown that palliative care helps with longer life expectancy, less stress, anxiety, and depression, and improved patient and caregiver satisfaction.
Palliative care is different from hospice care which is more associated with end-of-life care, although they seem to be under the same umbrella.
Contact Allegiance Hospice at (713) 492-0329 to see if palliative care is right for you or your loved one.
Sources: Comprehensive palliative and supportive care | Chordoma Foundation
Understanding Palliative Care: It’s Not What You Think | American Lung Association
Palliative Care: What it Is & What’s Included (clevelandclinic.org)
Definition of Palliative Care | What is Palliative Care? (getpalliativecare.org)
