Caregiver’s Journey Week 125: Palliative Care

As Lee's health declined, we anticipated physical deterioration. Our cardiac care nurse

practitioner told us it was time to access additional services to help us navigate the

challenges ahead. We asked for information about hospice because it was the only option we knew about. Because we were not ready to stop medical treatment for his heart disease, she referred us to palliative care. For those unfamiliar with palliative care, here is a brief summary of the services it can provide.

Symptom management

Pain, nausea, constipation/diarrhea, appetite loss, fatigue, shortness of breath, sleep problems

Medication review and coordination

Simplifying meds, reducing side effects, aligning meds with the patient’s goals

Emotional and mental health support

Help with anxiety, depression, fear, coping, and caregiver stress

Serious-illness communication and planning

Clarifying goals (“What matters most?”), understanding options, aligning treatment with values

Advance care planning

Help with advance directives, choosing a health care proxy, and discussing CPR/ventilator preferences

Support for family caregivers

Education about what to expect, coaching on caregiving challenges, resources, and respite planning

Practical help through social work

Community resources, insurance/benefits navigation, transportation, home support options

Care coordination across settings:

Helping connect the hospital, specialists, primary care, home health, and (when appropriate) hospice