What are the principles of palliative care?

What is palliative care?

Palliative care is a specialised form of medical support aimed at enhancing the quality of life for individuals living with serious, life-limiting illnesses. The World Health Organization (WHO) defines it as “the active total care of patients whose disease is not responsive to curative treatment. Control of pain, other symptoms, and psychological, social and spiritual problems, is paramount. The goal of palliative care is the achievement of the best quality of life for patients and their families.”

Rather than focusing on curing the illness, palliative care prioritises comfort and dignity. It affirms life, recognises dying as a natural process, and takes a holistic approach that addresses the physical, emotional, social and spiritual needs of both the individual and their loved ones. Palliative care can begin at any point following a terminal diagnosis and is not limited to the final days of life. Its aim is to help people live as well as possible for as long as possible, while providing support to families and carers throughout the journey.

A wide range of professionals may be involved in delivering palliative care, including:

• Doctors and nurses who manage symptoms and provide medical support.
• Support workers and carers who assist with daily needs and offer companionship.
• Counsellors and therapists who help with emotional and psychological wellbeing.
• Spiritual advisors who support personal beliefs and values.

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Conditions that can be helped by palliative care

Palliative care is essential for those with terminal illnesses like cancer, heart failure, and COPD. It enhances quality of life by providing holistic support, including pain management, emotional well-being, and spiritual care. This care starts at the time of diagnosis and continues throughout the journey. Whether through doctor referrals or private specialists, it’s a valuable resource that promotes comfort and a better quality of life.

The 5 principles of palliative care

Palliative care is guided by a set of compassionate attitudes and core principles. Successful palliative care involves collaboration across healthcare professionals and settings, ensuring that physical, emotional, and spiritual needs are met with dignity and respect.

Some key principles of palliative care include:

A caring attitude

Sensitivity, empathy, and compassion are central to effective palliative care. It is vital to show concern for all aspects of a person’s suffering. This is not just the medical symptoms, but also their emotional, psychological, social, and spiritual wellbeing. Every individual is unique, and even those with the same condition may have very different needs and preferences. Recognising this helps ensure that care is personalised and respectful, and that planning reflects the individual’s values and circumstances.

Relief from pain

Physical pain is a common feature of many health conditions at the end-of-life stage, though not everyone receiving palliative care will experience it. Pain is multidimensional, meaning it can affect people physically, emotionally, socially, and spiritually. There is no single approach to managing pain, so treatment must be tailored to the individual. Ongoing assessment and responsive management are essential to ensure comfort and dignity as life draws to a close.

Care excellence

Palliative care should provide the highest standard of medical, nursing, and allied health support that is both available and appropriate. A clear and coordinated care plan allows nurses and carers to deliver consistent care, helping to prevent medical emergencies and reduce distress. It also ensures that the individual’s wishes are understood and respected, offering reassurance to both the person and their family during a difficult time.

Communication

Effective communication is fundamental to all aspects of palliative care. It ensures that the person receiving care, their family, and all professionals involved are informed and aligned. Open and honest dialogue helps convey the individual’s end-of-life wishes, allowing families to honour them when the time comes. Clear communication also builds trust, reduces uncertainty, and supports better decision-making throughout the care journey.

Support for families and their loves ones

Palliative care is not only about supporting the individual, it also involves caring for their loved ones. Whether care is provided at home, in hospital, or in a hospice, the success of palliative care often depends on the support available to family members. Families should be prepared for the reality of death and understand what to expect. Providing appropriate emotional, practical, and bereavement support is invaluable in helping them cope and ensuring they feel supported throughout.

Where to access palliative care services

Palliative care is available in a range of settings across the UK, depending on the needs and preferences of the individual and their family. The aim is to provide comfort, dignity, and support wherever the person feels most at ease.

At home

Many choose to receive palliative care in their own home, surrounded by familiar surroundings and loved ones. Whether this is possible often depends on several factors, such as the nature and progression of the illness, level of care and support required and whether the home environment is able to physically accommodate the necessary equipment and care.

Community nurses, your GPs, and specialist palliative care teams can provide regular visits and support, helping to manage symptoms and offer emotional and practical assistance.

In hospitals

Hospitals offer palliative care through dedicated teams who work alongside other medical professionals. This setting may be suitable for those with complex medical needs or who require intensive symptom management.

In hospices

Hospices provide specialised, compassionate care in a calm and supportive environment. They focus on quality of life and offer a wide range of services, including pain relief, counselling, and support for families. Many hospices also offer outreach services for homecare.

In a care or nursing home

For those already living in residential care, palliative support can be integrated into their existing care plan. Staff are often trained to provide end-of-life care, and external palliative care teams may also be involved.

How can Cavendish Homecare help?

At Cavendish Homecare, we are experts in providing palliative homecare for clients who want to remain in their own homes. When it comes to your health and wellbeing, choosing the right homecare package is of utmost importance and navigating this process can be overwhelming. With Cavendish Homecare by your side, you’ll have the support you need to remain safely at home while enjoying elevated health and wellbeing.

If you would like to enquire about our homecare services, contact us on, 02030085210 or email us at info@cavendishhomecare.com.

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