Palliative care can begin as soon as a loved one is diagnosed with a severe or life-threatening illness, such as heart failure or cancer. When a loved one is diagnosed with illnesses like these, it can be very difficult to grasp for the victim and family members. The individual can choose to start forms of palliative care which can include symptom management and monitoring. In many cases, this form of care can be done at the patient’s home where they are able to have the most comfort available and be surrounded by loved ones. This form of care is oftentimes covered by most insurance plans, either government or private. In most cases, it would be covered under chronic or long– term care coverage, however, be sure to check what the policy limits are. Here are some resources to help find service providers in a specific area.
Palliative care is essentially being able to aid in a patient’s degression due to an illness while also trying to improve the quality of life for the patient in other aspects. This could be a combination of focusing on the physical, emotional, mental, and spiritual needs of the patient. It is important for family and loved ones to provide support for the patient in daily activities. Activities including music therapy, spiritual events, yoga, etc. can do wonders for improving a loved one’s emotional and spiritual wellbeing. Simple things like going to eat their favorite ice cream, taking a stroll in the park or at the beach, painting their nails, and grooming makeovers can easily brighten their days in palliative care.
Should I worry about my loved one in palliative care?
Family members should not be too worried when their loved one is in palliative care. This type of care does not equate to hospice, which is essentially end of life care where the goal is to reduce pain and suffering to prioritize the quality of their final stage of life. Palliative care just means that they are taking the steps to focus on the improvement and comfort of their health journey, although they may be battling a terminal illness. Palliative care is a combination of pain and symptom management with the support they need both spiritually and emotionally.
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By: Kelly Le
Senior Care Advising Intern at WellPath Partners
Healthcare Administration Student, California State University, Long Beach
