What is Palliative Care?

Palliative care is defined as the care and treatment of a person who has a progressive and advanced life limiting illness that cannot be cured.

The main priority of palliative care is to control pain and manage symptoms to maximise quality of life. Palliative care is essential in helping patients and their families come to terms with a future affected by the diagnosis of a life limiting illness.

Over the past 40 years, palliative care has advanced as a discipline in Australia and the rest of the world. Its rapid development has flowed from changes in practice and policy in clinical specialties like oncology and aged care.

Palliative care services are broad and diverse and can be delivered in a range of clinical settings. The majority of people who live with a life limiting illness spend most of their time - not in treatment centres or hospitals - but at home with their primary carer, supported by family and friends.

Who needs Palliative Care?

Australians who have a progressive and advanced life limiting illness, their carers, family and loved ones. It is estimated that over 100,000 Australians are living with a terminal illness and more than one third of these people are currently being cared for by specialised palliative care services.

The decision to seek the services of palliative care will often be based on the strengths and limitations of the person living with the life limiting illness.

The level and duration of care can vary depending on the system of support that the patient has around them. The primary support team may consist of a spouse and immediate family, friends, extended family, co-workers and the broader community. The level of support can also vary according to their social and/or cultural background and their place of residence.

For further information visit Palliative Care Australia.

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