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New dimensions in palliative care: a palliative approach to neurodegenerative diseases and final illness in older people
Author(s) -
Kristjanson Linda J,
Toye Christine,
Dawson Sky
Publication year - 2003
Publication title -
medical journal of australia
Language(s) - English
Resource type - Journals
SCImago Journal Rank - 0.904
H-Index - 131
eISSN - 1326-5377
pISSN - 0025-729X
DOI - 10.5694/j.1326-5377.2003.tb05578.x
Subject(s) - palliative care , dignity , referral , medicine , nursing , multidisciplinary approach , quality of life (healthcare) , advance care planning , psychology , family medicine , sociology , social science , political science , law
A palliative care approach has much to offer people in the advanced stages of neurodegenerative diseases, as well as elderly people dying from diseases other than cancer. Palliative care can be part of the treatment repertoire of any health worker, supported by intermittent consultation or referral to specialist palliative care services (eg, for management of neuropathic pain). A palliative care approach encourages a focus on pain and symptom management, and prompts more open communication about end‐of‐life issues. This approach recruits as necessary the expertise of specialists and multidisciplinary teams to encourage a flexible, responsive service. Home carers and healthcare providers require education to ensure a palliative approach that meets the physical, psychological, spiritual and social challenges facing patients and their families, and enhances dignity and quality of life.