Palliative care is more than end of life care. It is a family-centered model of care that focuses on quality of life. It is for everyone who has a life limiting illness.
Although eligibility and services differ from area to area, palliative care services generally include support with pain relief, sensitive family discussions and advanced care planning. It may also include support with meeting cultural obligations as well as emotional, social and spiritual concerns. Counseling and grief support may also be provided, as well as access to other services and respite care.
We know that early access to palliative care can support better quality of life for people living with MND. It can support people to live better for longer.
This year National Palliative Care Week runs from Sunday 19 May to Saturday 25 May. It is a week where we encourage people with MND to start a conversation about palliative care with your GP or MND Advisor. It is a week where we will be showing support for the palliative care workforce and their dedication to providing comfort, relief and support when it is needed most.
If you would like to know more about the role of palliative care and about planning ahead and why it helps, check out the End of life care: A guide for people living with MND.
You can view the book online or you can request a copy to be sent to you. Contact your MND Advisor or Info Line on 1800 777 175 or
