Who Receives End of Life Care?
End of life care is provided for individuals who are believed to be in the last year of their life. Predicting this timeframe can be challenging, so some individuals may only receive end of life care during their final weeks or days, while others might have it for a more extended period.
If you’re uncertain about whether you should be receiving end of life care, it’s advisable to consult with a healthcare or social care professional.
What’s Included in End of Life Care?
End of life care is designed to ensure that you can live as comfortably as possible during the time you have remaining. It encompasses various elements, such as:
- Managing physical symptoms.
- Assisting with daily tasks like bathing and dressing.
- Providing emotional support.
- Discussing your needs and preferences, including information your family and friends should be aware of.
- Receiving practical assistance with matters like creating a will or obtaining financial support.
Some of these conversations can be challenging, but if you haven’t yet considered or discussed your preferences regarding end of life care, now is the ideal moment to do so. Establishing plans or expressing your wishes increases the likelihood that you will have the kind of end-of-life experience you desire. This might involve decisions about where you wish to receive care and where you’d prefer to spend your final moments.
