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Originally Posted by JustJo
It was a rough afternoon.
Took Mom to see the new doctor...who was more honest and clear than her previous doctors have been. He was very supportive, but also frank that this type of cancer doesn't get better. They can keep her alive on chemo...but as soon as the chemo stops...the cancer will keep coming back. If the chemo stops, she probably has a few months.
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Jo, Thinking about , let alone Talking about palliative care, and end of life are tough.
There are a lor os sites that describe what it is about, but it sure is different with each patient, caregiver, loved one, and family. Other's to talk it over wiht may help. I copied this brief spot below, as an intro. Don't sit alone with this. Reach out if you can, and get some help. Find out what her coverage is for home health nurse visits, etc.
I went through this recently with a friend, and it was good for her and her family to know what to expect.
Best regards, Tommi
" Palliative Care Goals
The goal of palliative care is simply to relieve suffering and improve quality of life. Further goals are then based on the patient's wishes in consultation with the palliative care team.
Read more about determining the goals of care. **
Palliative care is more than just treating physical symptoms, however. Palliative care also addresses emotional suffering and spiritual care needs.
The Palliative Care Team
Palliative care is often carried out by a team of professionals who can address multiple concerns. The team may include:
Palliative care physicians
Palliative care nurse practitioners
Nurses
Social workers
Chaplains
Therapists (occupational, speech, physical, etc.)
The most important member of the palliative care team is YOU. Palliative care should be directed toward meeting your personal goals. It is your responsibility as a palliative care patient to make your goals and health care wishes known.
Learn more about finding palliative care.