Did you know that 1 in 10 adults are diagnosed with some type of chronic condition? As our loved one's age, it can be challenging to provide them with the necessary care they need to continue to live a happy, healthy life. We have put together this guide to share the ins and outs of palliative care at home.
Read on to learn more about what it is and how to find help for your loved one.
What Is Palliative Care?
Palliative care is a specialized medical approach focused on providing relief and support to individuals facing serious illness, particularly those with life-threatening conditions. Its primary goal is to enhance the quality of life for patients and their families. This is done by managing pain and other distressing symptoms, addressing psychological, social, and spiritual needs, and offering comprehensive support.
Palliative care is provided by a team of healthcare professionals. This includes doctors, nurses, social workers, counselors, and other specialists.
The team works together to address the physical, emotional, and practical challenges faced by patients. This care can be provided at any stage of an illness. From the time of diagnosis to the end of life, and it can be provided alongside curative or life-prolonging treatments.
These are the key aspects of palliative care:
Pain and Symptom Management
Palliative care focuses on controlling pain and managing symptoms such as nausea, shortness of breath, fatigue, and anxiety. The team works closely with the patient to develop a personalized care plan to address their specific needs.
Emotional Support
This type of care aims to support patients and their families in coping with the emotional and psychological impact of serious illness. This may involve counseling, therapy, and help in navigating the challenges of the illness.
Decision-Making
Open and honest communication between patients, families, and healthcare providers is a key aspect of this type of at home health care. It assists in discussing treatment options, setting goals of care, and making informed decisions based on the patient's values and preferences.
Caregivers for Seniors Provides Peace of Mind
Seniors and their families often face difficult decisions when it comes to determining the best course of care for aging loved ones. No one wants to see their loved ones suffer, particularly when it comes to the debilitating effects of chronic conditions such as dementia, Alzheimer's, or Parkinson's disease. In-home care services that include personal care, companionship, and medication reminders can be invaluable for seniors in need of daily help.
Comfort Keepers is committed to meeting the unique needs of seniors by providing compassionate, professional caregivers for seniors. Our caregivers for seniors improve the quality of life and provide peace of mind for family members who know that their aging loved ones are receiving quality care.
Difference Between Palliative Care and Hospice Care
Palliative care and hospice care are both specialized medical care that provide comfort care. They differ in the type of care provided and when they are recommended.
With palliative care the focus in on providing relief from symptoms, improving the quality of life, and addressing the physical, emotional, and spiritual needs of patients with serious illnesses. It can be initiated at any stage of an illness, even alongside curative treatments.
With hospice care this is a specialized form of palliative care that is specifically designed for patients who are nearing the end of life. It is usually provided when curative treatments are no longer effective or desired, and the focus shifts towards maximizing comfort and quality of life.
Palliative care is appropriate for patients with serious illnesses, regardless of their life expectancy. It can be provided alongside treatments aimed at cure or life-prolongation.
Hospice care is specifically for patients with a prognosis of six months or less if the illness follows its natural course. To receive hospice care, patients typically must forego further curative treatments.
The Importance of Senior Companionship
One of the most important aspects of in-home care is senior companionship. Seniors who live alone or have lost a spouse may experience loneliness and isolation, leading to feelings of depression. Senior companionship can provide vital emotional support, promoting mental wellness and overall health.
In-home caregivers offer companionship and friendship. They can engage in enjoyable activities with seniors, and take them out for walks or other outings. This can have a positive impact on their physical and mental health.
Customized Home Care Services for Seniors
Every aging adult is unique, and there is no one-size-fits-all approach to in-home senior care. Comfort Keepers provides individualized home care services to support the independence and well-being of seniors.
Our team of professional caregivers for seniors can provide anything from a few hours of care per week to full-time, 24-hour assistance for seniors with more extensive needs.
The goal of in-home care services is to ensure seniors receive the care and support they need to live comfortably in their own homes.
Feeling Like a PalliativeCare Pro?
As you can see palliative care is a lot more than just looking after your loved one. It is all about helping your loved one while offering them a sense of independence in the comfort of their home.
If you are looking for senior care at home, consider Comfort Keepers' home care services. We completely understand the struggles families face when a loved one needs a little extra help.
Thank you for taking the time to check out our blog post on understanding palliative care and how it can benefit seniors. Make sure you contact us with any further questions you might have.
