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Welcome! This website is a place to learn about palliative care: care that focuses on quality of life for people living with serious health conditions. Whether you're a patient, caregiver, family member, or community member, you are in the right place.
Here, you’ll find tools, resources, and guidance to help you. Explore what feels useful. And know that you are not alone.
HELP STARTS HERE
What is palliative care?
Palliative care, as defined by the World Health Organization, aims to improve quality of life for patients and families facing life-threatening illnesses, whether physical, social, or psychological (1). It addresses conditions like cancer, cardiac disease, kidney failure, and more (2). This interdisciplinary approach involves physicians, palliative care specialists, nurses, social workers, chaplains, and others to provide comprehensive support. Despite its benefits, many who could benefit aren’t receiving it. A Journal of Pain and Symptom Management study found that 71% of U.S. adults were unaware of palliative care, and among those who were, many held misconceptions. 30% believed it was the same as hospice, and 40% associated it with death. (3). These misunderstandings highlight the need for greater public awareness to ensure access to appropriate care.
Who should I talk to about receiving care?
When determining if palliative care is the right treatment for you, it’s best to consult with your doctor (4). Making your doctor aware of any concerns or symptoms you have will help them best determine whether palliative care is the right choice for you.
Does palliative care mean I’m dying?
No, receiving palliative care does not necessarily mean you are dying. According to the National Institute on Aging, palliative care focuses on improving quality of life for people with serious illnesses and their loved ones (5). While hospice care is a type of palliative care designed for those with six months or less to live, palliative care itself is broader. It can be provided at any stage of a serious illness and is not limited to end-of-life care.
How do I know if I need palliative care?
While doctors and medical professionals can help you confirm and recommend palliative care treatment, you can determine if this treatment is right for you based on several factors. You can determine if you need palliative care based on if you have a serious illness, serious symptoms, and/older age. While palliative care options may be associated with older patients, it can be used at any age.
How can I support someone in need of palliative care?
Supporting a loved one receiving palliative care can be both challenging and deeply rewarding. Palliative care addresses a range of serious illnesses, and working closely with healthcare providers helps create care plans tailored to the individual and their family (6). I.) Clear communication with the care team is essential. Attend appointments, take notes, ask questions, and advocate for the patient's values and preferences (7). II.) Serious illness can take a toll emotionally and mentally, so it’s important to listen, offer reassurance, and encourage uplifting activities like going for a walk, watching a favorite movie, or enjoying a favorite meal. III.) Stay aware of daily needs, such as personal hygiene, meals, or mobility, to determine what they can manage independently and where help is needed. To improve safety, make the home more accessible by removing loose rugs or adding grab bars to prevent falls.
How can I support a caregiver?
Being a caregiver is rewarding, but potentially exhausting work if the right steps are not taken to support them. We can help support caregivers by providing emotional support and helping with their daily tasks, if possible. It’s also important to let caregivers to rest and encourage self-care to avoid burnout.
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