What are the Benefits of Palliative Care?

Making the decision to provide your loved one with palliative care can be a difficult one, but ultimately it is also the right one following a terminal diagnosis. It ensures your loved one can receive the level of care they need in an environment that suits them. But, the benefits of palliative care go way beyond this, providing support when your loved one – and you – need it most.

In this article, we will explore why palliative care is important and break down the advantages so you can be confident that you are doing the right thing for your loved one.

Why is palliative care important?

Palliative care is one of the most important forms of care offered by professionals because it helps ensure the comfort and wellbeing of people following a terminal diagnosis. After receiving such devastating news it can be hard to know where to turn next, but palliative care can provide the support someone needs during this difficult time.

One of the last things any of us want for a loved one is for them to struggle, and palliative care helps provide them with everything they need as their illness progresses.

Of course, the main benefit of palliative care is to make sure your loved one receives the care and support they need during their illness. On top of this, there are other benefits that mean it is worth its weight in gold.

Increases the quality of life for your loved one

Following a terminal diagnosis, your loved one will possibly experience a range of symptoms and difficulties with their health. These can have a major impact on their quality of life, particularly if they are in pain.

Palliative care helps improve your loved one’s quality of life by managing their symptoms and providing pain relief and support. Your loved one’s wellbeing is, and will always be, the focus of palliative care, and care professionals work with other providers to ensure care is seamless and coordinated.

Improves mental wellbeing

Many of the effects of a terminal illness do not just affect the body, but also the mind, which can have a huge impact on your loved one’s mental health. Palliative care is holistic, so also helps with social, emotional and spiritual aspects.

Ensures safety and security

Wherever your loved one receives palliative care, it ensures they are cared for in a safe and secure environment. This particularly applies to those who receive care in a hospital or care home, which has the facilities and infrastructure in place to assure patient and resident welfare. It also takes the onus off you or your loved one, and a professional carer can monitor progress so they always receive medication and treatment.

Provides pain relief and symptom management support

As your loved one’s illness progresses, they unfortunately may experience pain and discomfort. Palliative care offers your loved one relief of their pain, nausea and other distressing symptoms.

Offers support for family members and caregivers

Not only does your loved one require support following a terminal diagnosis, but with palliative care this is also extended to you and other family and friends. This could come in the form of counseling, emotional support, education and empathy. You will also be offered support during bereavement as grief can be one of the most challenging times any of us experience.

Supports decision-making 

Palliative care is an ongoing process, but it is unlikely that a care plan will remain the same. Changes will be needed and at times decisions have to be made. Carers will walk you through this process so you are always given the information you need to make difficult choices.

If your loved one requires palliative care that is experienced, empathetic and affordable, we are here to support you. We have a number of care homes up and down the UK that offer palliative care via a dedicated and caring team.

To learn more about how we can support you and your loved one, contact us today.