National Palliative Care Week runs from 10 – 16 May 2026. This year the theme is getting to the heart of it. Big Questions. Real Answers. The campaign aims to make palliative care easier to understand by encouraging honest questions and offering clear, human answers.
In the spirit of this theme, we are answering some common questions people living with MND and their families have about palliative care.
1. What is palliative care?
Palliative care is a person-centred approach to care for people living with a life-limiting disease, focusing on enhancing quality of life. It is important part of the multidisciplinary care team for people living with MND and their families.
Although eligibility and services can vary, palliative care generally involves:
- Managing symptoms including pain
- Psychological, social, spiritual and practical support
- Advanced care planning
- Counselling and grief support
2. How do I access palliative care?
To access palliative care, a referral can be made by your doctor, medical specialist, or any other healthcare provider. To find a service in your local area go to the National Palliative Care Service Directory
3. Is palliative care only available in the last few days before you die?
Palliative care can be available to people from the time they are first diagnosed with a life-limiting illness. People can receive palliative care services for a long time before they die and may receive it at the same time as they receive treatment, sometimes referred to as supportive palliative care.
If you have questions about palliative care and how it could be helpful for you, you can contact your MND Advisor or the National MND InfoLine on 1800 777 175.
