Palliative Care
Caring for someone at the end stage of life
Carers can help a dying person in many ways. Gentle conversation, massaging someone's hands and playing music are some of the things you can do to create a peaceful environment.
How can I help a loved one die at home?
Many people express the desire to die at home surrounded by the people they love in a familiar environment.
Home Hospice is a free program helping carers look after the needs of the terminally ill in the comfort of their own home.
What is palliative care?
Palliative care is the specialised care of people with a terminal illness with an emphasis on maintaining quality of life and comfort.
How to recognise the end stages of life
Whilst there are common physical signs that may indicate end stages of life, it is often hard to predict.
Palliative care - When family disagree
Caring for a person at the end stages of life will be one of the most saddest and distressing things a carer will do.
What happens when someone dies?
The death of a loved one is an emotional time. Having to deal with the many practical and legal aspects that come with a death in the family can cause extra stress at an already traumatic time.
What is an Advanced Care Directive?
An advanced care directive or plan is used when a person can no longer make decisions due to physical or mental incapacity. It is used as a guide to help family and medical staff make often life-sustaining decisions regarding a person's medical care.
Coping with pain
Older people often experience pain as they can have multiple medical problems. Pain can have a significant impact on an older person's ability to function on a daily basis.
Practical tips: Who to contact when a loved one dies
There are many people to contact in the event of a death. If you can locate a family member's documents it will help you find all the relevant information regarding what organisations you need to contact. Keep in mind that you may have to provide reference numbers for certain accounts.
Making funeral arrangements ahead of time
Many people are now choosing to organise their own funeral in advance. Talking about death and dying can be uncomfortable. However, discussing the issues early on can help family carry out a loved one's wishes and preferences.
Disclaimer: This site is for information purposes only and should not be used to diagnose or treat a health problem, nor as a substitute for professional advice with a qualified health professional or doctor.
