How does palliative care approach quality of life?

Palliative care prioritizes the overall quality of life for patients and their families by emphasizing support, dignity, and comfort rather than solely focusing on curative treatments. This approach acknowledges that serious illnesses can significantly impact not just physical health but also emotional, social, and spiritual well-being.

By supporting the patient and family’s hope for quality of life, palliative care seeks to address complex issues such as pain management, symptom relief, and emotional distress. This holistic perspective recognizes that maintaining dignity and enhancing the quality of life is of utmost importance, especially when dealing with life-limiting conditions. The involvement of family is also a crucial aspect, as palliative care not only assists the patient but also provides support and guidance to family members, helping them cope with the patient's condition and enhancing their overall experience.

While minimizing hospital visits can be a component of palliative care, it is not the primary focus. The approach is about providing the right care in the right setting, which may sometimes necessitate hospital visits for symptom management. Also, unlike the prioritization of medical procedures over emotional support, palliative care intentionally combines both to ensure a comprehensive approach to patient care. The aim is to treat the person as a whole, promoting a better quality of life tailored to