By age 85, the majority of Americans will have one or more chronic medical conditions requiring ongoing management. Palliative medicine is a growing field in healthcare for individuals managing serious illnesses and those facing end-of-life decisions. It is an essential part of overall senior care that can make a massive difference in the quality of life and comfort measures while experiencing these trying times. This blog will look at palliative medicine, what it is, how it works, and who can benefit from it.
What is Palliative Medicine?
Palliative medicine is a holistic, specialized form of medical care focusing on symptom control and comfort for those with serious illnesses. It differs from other treatments, such as curative treatment, where the primary focus is to find a cure for a disease. It's also different from symptomatic treatment, which provides temporary relief but does not address the underlying causes of a disease or illness. The goal of palliative care extends beyond managing physical symptoms by attending to psychological, social, and spiritual needs to improve the quality of life for both patient and family, regardless of whether or not a cure is possible.
Who Should Get Palliative Care?
Palliative care is not reserved exclusively for people in the end stages of life. A palliative care team can provide this treatment to any patient with a serious medical condition, including those on curative and supportive therapy. Seniors receiving long-term medical or geriatric care should discuss palliative medicine options early on with their health provider to begin addressing all aspects of the illness, improving comfort throughout its course.
What are the Benefits of Palliative Care?
The benefits of palliative care are comprehensive, ranging from physical comfort to psychological and spiritual well-being for both patient and family. Individuals typically experience fewer hospitalizations and less need for pain medications. Caregivers also receive support with grief counseling, case management services, and financial assistance, among other forms of social assistance required by loved ones during this trying time.
How Does Palliative Medicine Work?
Palliative care is designed around a person's individual needs. To create an effective treatment plan, health providers evaluate multiple aspects of an individual’s current level of symptoms and the severity of the overall condition. Treatment may comprise traditional medical options and holistic approaches such as yoga and therapeutic massage for comfort-focused measures. Caregivers also provide psychosocial support to address psychological, social, and spiritual needs based on the individual's situation and goals throughout this journey.
Do You Know a Senior Dealing With End-of-Life Decisions?
Palliative medicine provides additional support, care, and comfort for seniors dealing with serious illnesses or end-of-life decisions. As the disease progresses, this holistic approach focuses on symptom control, emotional well-being, and spiritual alignment while also alleviating the burden posed by medical costs and psychological difficulties. If you know a senior balancing serious health issues or facing end-of-life matters, contact a professional at Senior Helpers of the North Metro Atlanta located in Atlanta, Marietta, Alpharetta, and Roswell. We'll provide more information about how our team can support end-of-life care.