What is palliative care for cancer

Palliative care can be beneficial at any point in an illness when distressing symptoms arise. It isn’t limited to hospice or end-of-life scenarios but instead focuses on improving the sense of contentment for cancer patients throughout their cancer journey. In cases of advanced cancer, palliative interventions can enhance both the quality of life for someone, enabling them to live more comfortably, even if they cannot be cured. Cancer treatments do not have to be stopped to have palliative care.

What is the aim of palliative care?

A. Manage physical distressing sensations, such as pain

B. Integrate emotional, spiritual and psychological into aspects of care

C. Provide social care, including help with things like washing, dressing or eating

D. Offer a support system for your loved one and their family and friends

When should palliative care start?

Palliative care can benefit clients at any point in their illness trajectory, from diagnosis onwards. It is a holistic approach that complements curative treatments. Starting palliative care early can make a significant difference. Early integration ensures that clients receive the support they need right from the beginning, leading to better outcomes. 

Where can you receive palliative care?

Palliative care is flexible, delivered in various settings to meet your unique needs and preferences.

1. Palliative care at home

Comfort and familiarity: Receive care in your own home, maintaining independence and routine.

Personalised: Care plans tailored to your daily life and environment.

Minimised infection risk: Reduced exposure to hospital infections.

Family involvement: Encourages greater participation from loved ones.

Practicalities: Includes nursing visits and assistance with activities of daily living.

2. Inpatient palliative care units / hospices

Complex symptom management: Ideal for severe pain, nausea, or breathing difficulties requiring intensive care.

24/7 care: Continuous monitoring and support from expert teams.

Managing complex medical issues: Assists in crisis situations.

Caregiver respite: Offers temporary relief for family caregivers.

Hospices: Provide a homelike atmosphere, especially for end-of-life comfort.

3. Hospital consult services

Integrated care: Palliative care teams work alongside your oncology team in the hospital.

Symptom recommendations: Expert advice on managing pain, nausea, fatigue, and emotional distress.

Goals of care: Facilitates discussions about your values and treatment preferences.

Transition planning: Helps coordinate smooth transitions to home, inpatient units, or outpatient clinics.

4. Outpatient palliative care clinics

Ongoing support: Scheduled appointments for symptom monitoring and medication adjustments.

Holistic care: Provides consistent emotional, psychological, and spiritual guidance.

Care coordination: Connects you with specialists, community resources, and support services.

Proactive management: Addresses issues early, preventing severe discomfort.

Maintains independence: Allows you to live your daily life while receiving expert care without hospitalization.

How does palliative care help cancer patients?

Individuals who use palliative care services have less pain, depression, nausea, and shortness of breath. They spend less time in intensive care and are less likely to have to go back into the hospital. When paired with their cancer treatment, they have a better overall experience and mood than those who don’t use the services at all. For those with advanced-stage cancer, it can potentially extend life while enhancing comfort, despite the absence of a cure.

Benefits of palliative care for cancer treatment

• Pain relief – effectively managing and relieving pain, improving your comfort.
• Anti-sickness – specialised medical care is provided to help control nausea and vomiting, making you feel more at ease.
• Managing wounds or stomas – expert assistance in the care and management of wounds or stomas, ensuring proper healing and hygiene.
• Additional medications for side-affects – additional medications to proactively address and minimise uncomfortable side effects.
• Support you to live as fully as possible – focusing on your well-being and goals.
• Provides support  – support is extended to your family and caregivers to help navigate the challenges and ensuring they feel sustained throughout your journey.

The collaborative nature of palliative care 

Palliative care isn’t a standalone service; rather, it’s a core part of cancer care. It’s provided by a multidisciplinary team (MDT) – a group of experts working together to give you complete support.

Specifically, this team usually includes palliative care doctors, who are specialists in managing tough pain and other health problems, and importantly, they help with significant decisions.

Furthermore, palliative care nurses provide direct care, check your needs, handle medications, and teach you and your family. In addition, social workers offer emotional support, help with practical things like money or transport, and connect families to local services.

Beyond medical and social aspects, chaplains or spiritual counselors offer comfort and help with spiritual questions, no matter your beliefs.

For mental well-being, psychologists or counselors give special mental health support for anxiety, depression, and coping.

Dietitians offer food advice to help with appetite loss, nausea, and keeping up your strength.

To maintain independence, physical and occupational therapists help you stay mobile and adapt daily activities so you can do more. Crucially, pharmacists check all your medicines to make sure they work best and have the fewest side effects.

Finally, volunteers offer friendship, practical help, and give caregivers a needed break.

How can Cavendish Homecare help?

At Cavendish Homecare we are experts in providing palliative homecare for individuals with terminal illnesses who want to remain in their own homes. We work to support the patients and their families with sensitive and comforting palliative care in London. If you would like to enquire about our palliative care, contact us on, 020 3008 5210 or email us at info@cavendishhomecare.com.