A palliative approach or specialist palliative care? What happens in aged care facilities for residents with a noncancer diagnosis?

J Palliat Care. 2005 Summer;21(2):80-7.

Abstract

This article presents results of the second stage of a research project which explored the palliative care needs of 69 residents with a noncancer diagnosis in South Australia. Extensive data were collected prospectively from case notes, and resident and staff interviews over a 10-week period. Residents were suffering multiple conditions and were highly dependent for activities of daily living. Most residents' care was consistent with a palliative approach, with only three residents in the study referred to a specialist palliative care service. However, for some residents, pain and symptom management were not always adequate, and referral to a specialist palliative care service would have been appropriate. This research indicates that, with additional education, it could be possible to extend the principles and philosophy of palliative care by adopting a palliative care approach within aged care facilities.

MeSH terms

  • Aged
  • Aged, 80 and over
  • Chronic Disease*
  • Female
  • Health Services Needs and Demand*
  • Holistic Health
  • Homes for the Aged / organization & administration*
  • Humans
  • Male
  • Medicine*
  • Pain Measurement
  • Palliative Care / methods*
  • Personal Autonomy
  • Quality of Life
  • Referral and Consultation
  • South Australia
  • Specialization*