What is palliative care? Support for life-limiting and terminal illness

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PalAssist is here to help.

Staffed by qualified nurses and health professionals, the service is available 7 days a week from 7am to 7pm.

Despite what you might think, palliative care isn’t just about end-of-life care, so what is palliative care? Palliative care is specialised medical care for anyone living with a life-limiting illness or terminal illness, such as advanced cancer. The main goal is to improve a person’s quality of life by relieving pain and reducing emotional, physical, social, and spiritual suffering.

Palliative care is all about meeting the unique needs of people going through cancer their families, helping people live as fully and comfortably as possible. It’s tailored to each individual and supports both the person and their loved ones throughout the illness journey.

Your dedicated palliative care team works closely with you to identify and address your unique needs. Support can include:

  • Relief from pain and other symptoms (e.g. nausea, shortness of breath)
  • Access to palliative care equipment for home support
  • Guidance for families on discussing sensitive medical issues
  • Advance care planning and support with future medical decisions
  • Referrals to services such as home help and financial support
  • Emotional, social, and spiritual support

Early referral to palliative care services can often enhance and even extend a person’s life, ensuring better overall palliative support and outcomes.

While end-of-life care is an important part of palliative care, it typically refers to the final weeks of life when needs—both for the individual and their carers—are highest. This care extends to include bereavement support for families and loved ones after death.

If you or someone you love needs palliative care, PalAssist is here to help. PalAssist is a free and confidential support service for anyone dealing with a life-limiting illness.

Staffed by qualified nurses and health professionals, the service is available 7 days a week from 7am to 7pm, providing:

  • Advice and guidance from trained professionals
  • Connection to local palliative care providers and resources
  • Referrals to support services in your area

To speak with someone who understands, contact PalAssist and get the help you need today.