What is the primary goal of palliative care?

The primary goal of palliative care is to improve the quality of life for patients with serious illnesses. This holistic approach focuses on addressing the physical, emotional, social, and spiritual needs of patients, rather than solely concentrating on prolonging life or offering curative treatments. Palliative care recognizes that patients may experience a range of symptoms that can significantly affect their daily functioning and overall well-being. By enhancing the quality of life, palliative care helps patients achieve comfort, dignity, and relief from suffering, which is essential, especially in the context of serious, life-limiting conditions.

While extending lifespan and providing curative treatment are important aspects of healthcare in some contexts, they are not the primary focus of palliative care. Additionally, while emotional support for family members is a crucial component of the care provided, the overarching aim is centered on the patient’s quality of life, which includes supporting the families as an integral part of the patient's support system.