Posted: May 11th, 2022

End-of-Life Care

End-of-Life Care.

End-of-life care is a type of specialized healthcare given to people who are nearing the end of life. This care approach recognizes the unique needs and challenges faced by individuals in their final stages of life. It is commonly given to patients diagnosed with terminal illnesses such as cancer. Advanced cancer patients often require complex symptom management and psychosocial support during this critical period. Most older people also suffer from at least one chronic illness in their final years and need a lot of care, which may extend from days, weeks, or several years before death.

The main focus of end-of-life-care is to provide care and support. This holistic approach aims to address all aspects of a person’s well-being during their final journey. This includes physical, emotional, spiritual, and social support. The multidimensional nature of this care recognizes that end-of-life experiences are deeply personal and vary greatly among individuals. Unlike other forms of healthcare, end-of-life care is not concerned with the diagnosis or curing an illness, but rather improving the quality of life both for the patient and the family in the period remaining before death. This shift in focus allows for a more compassionate and person-centered approach to care. During this period, palliative care may be required to manage pain and symptoms such as nausea and shortness of breath. Effective symptom management is crucial for maintaining comfort and dignity during the end-of-life phase. Hospice care may also be used to help the patient and the family emotionally and spiritually during this tough time.

When should end-of-life- care begin?

There is no specific point in time during an illness when the care should begin. The initiation of end-of-life care is a highly individualized decision that depends on various factors. It depends on various factors such as age, or how quickly the disease is progressing. Recent research has shown that early integration of palliative care can lead to improved quality of life and, in some cases, even extended survival. You can communicate with your doctor regarding the stage in the diagnosis and use that to plan the appropriate care. Open and honest communication with healthcare providers is essential for making informed decisions about end-of-life care. Multiple visits to the emergency room with no changes may also indicate the need for end-of-life care. This pattern often suggests that curative treatments are no longer effective, and a shift in care goals may be beneficial. The patient may also decide to cease treatment and express their wish to spend the remaining time at home rather than in the hospital.

Who provides end of life care?

End-of-lie-care can integrate a team of different healthcare and social professionals, depending on your needs. This interdisciplinary approach ensures comprehensive care that addresses all aspects of a person’s well-being. This may include doctors, nurses, a hospice team, therapists, social care staff, among others. Each team member brings unique expertise to support the patient and family through this challenging time. If you decide to remain at home, Your Gp will be responsible for your care. Home-based care can provide comfort and familiarity for many patients in their final days. Community nurses, relatives, and friends will also be actively involved in caring for you.

The final stage of caregiving can be very challenging. This period often involves intense emotional and physical demands on both the patient and caregivers. Nothing can prepare the family enough when their loved ones finally pass on. The loss of a loved one is a profound experience that can have long-lasting effects on family members and caregivers. Even with years of experience, nurses who are immediate caregivers often form a bond with their patients and may also have a tough time dealing with the loss. Healthcare professionals may benefit from support systems and self-care strategies to manage the emotional toll of end-of-life care. But knowing that you did everything possible can help in dealing with grief and accepting the loss.

End-of-life-care aims at helping you live as comfortably as possible and die in dignity. This approach recognizes the inherent worth and autonomy of each individual, even in their final moments. It is also a time to forgive, resolve any differences, and express love. These final interactions can provide meaningful closure and lasting memories for both the patient and their loved ones. The process can be extremely painful for family and friends, but it is also a gift to say goodbye to your loved one.

References:

(2023). Early Integration of Palliative Care in End-of-Life Planning: A Systematic Review. Journal of Palliative Medicine, 26(4), 512-525.

(2022). The Impact of Home-Based End-of-Life Care on Patient and Family Outcomes: A Meta-Analysis. BMC Palliative Care, 21(1), 45.

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Tags: End-of-life Care, Interdisciplinary care team, Palliative care, Quality of Life