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Palliative Care
Palliative care is a specialized form of medical care focused on providing relief from the symptoms, pain, and stress associated with serious illnesses such as heart disease, cancer, or chronic respiratory conditions. The primary goal of palliative care is to enhance the quality of life for patients by addressing their physical, emotional, and spiritual needs. This type of care is not limited to end-of-life situations; it can be provided at any stage of a serious illness, alongside curative treatments. Palliative care also offers vital support to caregivers, helping them manage the challenges of caring for a loved one with a serious illness. By focusing on comfort and well-being, palliative care plays a crucial role in improving the overall health and life satisfaction of both patients and their families.
What is palliative care?
Palliative (pal-lee-uh-tiv) care is a specialized form of care that provides symptom relief, comfort and support to individuals living with serious illnesses. It also provides support to caregivers and those impacted by a loved one’s condition.
Palliative care complements the care you receive from the providers in charge of your care plan.
Your care team works to deliver the best care outcomes (results) available for your condition. Palliative care helps you live more comfortably — with the medical, social and emotional support needed to cope with having a serious illness
You can receive palliative care no matter your age, prognosis or whether you’re receiving treatments.
What exactly does palliative care mean?
Palliative comes from the Latin word, palliare, which means “to cloak.” The word’s origins provide clues about the role of palliative care. Imagine an extra layer of comfort and protection shielding you from the harms associated with illness. This support is what palliative care is all about.
Is palliative care the same as end-of-life (hospice) care?
No. Palliative care refers to relieving the symptoms of an incurable medical condition. Its focus is on easing stress and improving overall quality of life. Unlike hospice — which people often associate with end-of-life care — palliative care can benefit people of any age and at any stage of a serious illness.
Who provides palliative care?
Palliative care teams include medical providers and other specialists who can help you manage symptoms. They can also help you navigate the added stress and responsibilities that often accompany serious illnesses.
Your care team may include:
- Doctors.
- Nurses.
- Social workers.
- Nutritionists.
- Financial advisors.
- Spiritual advisors (chaplains).
What types of support does palliative care provide?
Palliative care includes various forms of support across multiple fronts. Palliative care supplements your medical care. It can also provide social, emotional and spiritual support. Palliative care can help you address practical concerns like healthcare costs and legal planning.
When is it time for palliative care?
There isn’t one set time for when someone should be offered palliative care. Many people opt for palliative care once they receive a serious diagnosis. Seeking care early on can help you plan for what’s to come.
Speak to your provider about whether they’d recommend palliative care for you.
What are the benefits of palliative care?
Palliative care empowers you to make better care decisions that positively impact your life. It can improve healthcare-related outcomes, too. Research has shown that palliative care is associated with:
- Longer life expectancy.
- Less anxiety and depression.
- Improved patient and caregiver satisfaction.
How can I get palliative care?
You’ll need a referral from your provider to receive palliative care. In some instances, your provider may recommend it. If not, don’t be afraid to bring up the topic. Mention that you’re interested in learning more about palliative care, including whether you’re a good candidate and what resources are available.
A note from Cleveland Clinic
Living with a serious illness can take a toll on your mind, body, relationships — and many other aspects of life. The demands can be overwhelming. Palliative care exists to ease multiple burdens associated with having a serious disease. Speak with your provider if you’d like to learn more about palliative care available to you or a loved one. Resources may be available that can help provide you the comfort and support needed to live your life more fully.