Making palliative care comfortable for loved ones is not an easy task, but it is important to ensure the best possible care and comfort during this difficult time. When people are told that they have a terminal illness, their emotions can be overwhelming. It is important to take steps to make sure that the person in palliative care gets the support they need to make their end-of-life journey as comfortable and dignified as possible.
Make sure your loved one feels supported – Spend quality time with them and let them know that you are there for them. Make sure to be patient and understanding with their feelings, as this can make a huge difference in terms of comfort.
Create a comfortable and supportive environment – Take the time to make sure that their physical environment is as comfortable as possible. Ensure they have access to things like comfortable bedding, blankets, pillows, and other items that can make them feel more at ease. Forte Healthcare hospital beds for homes are a fantastic example of this as they come with adjustable head and footrests, allowing caregivers to provide a comfortable sleeping surface for their loved ones.
Keep communication open – Make sure that communication stays open between the patient, their loved ones, and healthcare providers. This could involve having regular meetings or check-ins to discuss any needs or changes in care that need to be made. Ask questions, explore options, and ensure everyone involved is on the same page.
When communication slows, stress and anxiety can increase. Make sure all parties involved are aware of the individual’s wishes and preferences so that they can be taken into account.
Remember mental and emotional support too – Palliative care is not only about physical comfort measures. Mental and emotional support are also critical components of the process. Keep an open dialogue with your loved one, encourage conversation about their feelings and experiences, and offer support where you can.
Contact specialists for help – Remember, you are not alone in this process. Some organisations and professionals specialise in palliative care, such as social workers, nurses, counsellors, and chaplains. Reaching out to these people is a superb way to ensure your loved one is getting the best possible care.
Show love and kindness – Even in the most difficult circumstances, your loved one needs to feel comforted and cared for. Showing them love and kindness can make all the difference. Small acts of kindness, like bringing them a small gift or reading to them, can make the process a little more bearable.
Remember yourself – Looking after a loved one in palliative care can be emotionally and physically draining. Be sure to make time for yourself, so that you’re not exhausted or overwhelmed. Have meals with friends, make time for exercise or hobbies, and give yourself plenty of breaks from day-to-day care.
Talk it out – Everyone’s experience of palliative care is unique, so don’t be afraid to talk about it with other people. Chatting with family, friends, and professionals can help you express your emotions and feel supported. Furthermore, you’ll also find lots of others in your position online, so don’t forget to seek out support groups on social media or websites.
Take their needs into account – It’s easy to focus on your own needs when you’re providing care for a loved one, but it’s important to consider theirs too. Ask them what they need and how you can help, and listen carefully to their response. Involving them in decisions whenever possible is a good way to show your respect for your loved one.