Palliative Care is care and support provided to people who have a progressive, life limiting illness. This means an illness that is going to get worse, and which will eventually shorten the person’s life. Palliative Care recognises the unique needs of a person who is approaching and reaching the end of their life, as well as the needs of their family and carers.
Palliative Care aims to improve the quality of life for patients, their families and carers by addressing their many needs; physical (including treatment of pain and other symptoms), emotional, social, cultural and spiritual needs. It helps the person live as well and as comfortably as possible, and supports them through the deteriorating phase of their illness through to their death. Support is also offered to help family and carers.