Being diagnosed with a terminal illness can be challenging to come to terms with for patients as well as their families. In most cases, it is a family member that takes on the majority of the responsibility in providing the necessary assistance and support required in these situations. Quality end-of-life care can be extremely helpful for pain management and addressing emotional and spiritual needs during such a confusing and distressing time.
What is a terminal illness?
A terminal illness is incurable, which causes many people to lose hope upon hearing such a discouraging diagnosis. Although there may not be hope for full recovery, there is still hope for acceptance, closure, and living out one’s final days in the best way possible.
What is Palliative Care?
End-of-life care is often referred to as palliative care. Palliative care is designed to bring comfort and peace to families during confusion and suffering. The goal is to help terminally ill patients spend time with loved ones, fulfill end-of-life goals, and to relieve painful symptoms of the disease.
Palliative care is specialized medical care for people facing a life-limiting illness for which there is currently no cure. These days, with medical and technological advancements, it is possible for people to live months and even years with a terminal illness.
Palliative care can make that final period less stressful and painful for everyone involved. These services can even be administered in the comfort of a home by a professional home care agency like Promyse Home Care.
Promyse Home Care is an excellent resource for those requiring assistance in the Kitchener – Waterloo – Cambridge area. Experienced and professional caregivers can assist with a wide range of tasks and services that can help ease the burden and improve the quality of daily life.
End-of-Life Care Services
Various palliative care services are available, depending on health care needs and patient preferences.
Some of the services that can be attained are:
- Symptom relief and pain management
- Monitoring health concerns and status
- Personal Care
- Home Support
- Ongoing communication with family members
- Coordination with other healthcare professionals
- Home medical supplies and equipment
- Physical, emotional, and spiritual support
Symptom Relief and Pain Management
This may be the most significant benefit of end-of-life care for the patient and family. Terminally ill patients can continue living for months after a diagnosis; why live out the remaining days in pain and discomfort?
Promyse home caregivers can help with the following:
- Nausea
- Fatigue
- Pain management
- Loss of appetite
- Respiratory problems
- Anxiety
- Depression
- And more…
Monitoring Health
Upon initial contact, a free consultation will be done to understand better what is required and what services would be most beneficial. A personalized care plan can then be created and reviewed regularly to ensure it continues to be effective.
Personal Care
A variety of personal care services are available to help with everyday living. Registered nurses and professional caregivers can assist with the following:
- Bathing
- Toileting
- Oral care
- Skincare
Diet
Many people diagnosed with a terminal illness experience physical decline, making it difficult to carry out daily tasks like maintaining hygiene and self-care. Caregivers can be a huge help with these intimate tasks that are performed with compassion and discretion.
Home Support
Like personal care, home support is offered for individuals with deteriorated strength and mobility. Caregivers can help with:
- Light housekeeping
- Meal planning and prep
- Errands
- Laundry
- Home Safety
- Medications
Keeping the house clean and tidy often falls by the wayside upon diagnosing a terminal illness. Maintaining cleanliness and safety can help lift spirits and prevent further injury.
Communication with Family Members
Family members who wish to be involved can discuss their fears, concerns, and wishes. Gaining education about the illness can explain and reduce confusion. This helps with the healing process and living through difficult situations.
Coordination with Other Health Care Professionals
Communicating with other doctors and health care professionals involved in the case will provide a clearer overall picture and ensure no conflicting treatments exist. Ensuring everyone is on the same page reduces confusion and improves care efficiency.
Home Medical Supplies and Equipment
Palliative care services can be carried out in the comfort of a home. In some cases, extra medical supplies will be needed, and the nurse case manager at Promyse Home Care can help organize necessary equipment from a reputable and affordable source.
Ongoing Support
Promyse caregivers and nurses will continually support patients and their loved ones. Physical support can be offered through pain management, personal care, and home support. Emotional support will be available at all times for patients and their families. Spiritual support is also offered for anyone that desires it, as many people turn to spiritual assistance in times like these.
References:
Is Palliative Care in Ontario Free?
What is the difference between Palliative Care and Hospice Care?
