Posted: March 31st, 2024

End of life care

End of life care
End of life care is the medical care and support given to people who are nearing the end of life. These include individuals who have been diagnosed with terminal illnesses such as cancer and older people because they are frailer and often suffer from more than one chronic disease in their final years of life.
End of life care is not concerned with a cure for a disease but rather to relieve suffering and maximize the quality of life while still respecting the patients dying wishes. The final stage period can last from days, months, to years, depending on the nature and stage of the illness. End of life care focuses on providing physical, social, emotional, and spiritual support to the patient and the whole family, allowing their loved one to die a peaceful and dignified death.
During this period, palliative care, which focuses on alleviating pain and other symptoms such as nausea, constipation, and shortness of breath, is often used. Palliative care is appropriate for patients with chronic illnesses with symptoms that require specialized medical care. Hospice care is also common with the end of life care. It is given to individuals who have ceased all active treatments and are likely to pass on in less than six months. It is provided at home or in nursing homes and focuses on providing emotional, social, and spiritual support.
Who Provides end of life care?
End of life care incorporates a team of health care professionals. Depending on the patient’s needs, the team may comprise doctors, nurses, therapists, among others. If you prefer receiving care at home, relatives, close friends, community nurses, and other members of the community, such as religious leaders, will be actively involved in caring for you.
When is it time for End of Life Care?
Deciding when to begin the end of life care can be challenging. Starting end of life care depends on the patient, the nature, and progression of their illness. Patients may also express their wishes to stop treatment and spend the remaining period at home rather than in the hospital.
The main aim of end of life care is to provide care and support and allow a person to die with dignity. The patient can also express their wishes and preferences regarding what they want during care and after death. During this period, there are a lot of emotions associated with trying to accept that a loved one is dying. But it is also an opportunity to say goodbye and prepare for grief when death finally happens.

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