As reported by LianHeZaoBao – Translated into English
https://www.zaobao.com.sg/lifestyle/health/story20251013-7652086
Palliative care provides “end-of-life care” for patients and helps improve their quality of life. However, beyond the patients themselves, caregivers can also benefit from palliative care, said Dr Neoh Sue Wern, consultant at the Department of Supportive and Palliative Medicine, Ng Teng Fong General Hospital, in an interview with Lianhe Zaobao’s “Live Well” column.
When the caregiver’s burden grows
Dr Leong explained that as a patient’s health and physical function gradually decline, caregivers often have to take on more responsibilities, which can cause significant physical and emotional stress.
At such times, palliative care can provide crucial support to caregivers.
A team approach to comfort and guidance
Doctors can help relieve patients’ symptoms through both medical and non-medical interventions.
Physiotherapists and occupational therapists train caregivers on how to assist patients safely in daily living activities—such as turning them in bed or helping them move—to reduce the risk of accidents.
Nurses also play a key role in supporting home-based care. If patients develop pressure sores after being bedridden for too long, nurses can offer wound care and preventive advice to ensure patients receive proper treatment.
Emotional and social support
Medical social workers can provide emotional and psychological support to caregivers and their families.
When caregivers find it difficult to cope with home care alone, social workers can help them apply for community resources—for instance, temporary respite care or home medical assistance.
Helping families with end-of-life discussions
The palliative care team can also guide families and patients through end-of-life conversations, helping them to understand and respect the patient’s wishes.
Where possible, the team helps patients fulfil their last wishes or unfinished goals, bringing deeper meaning to the final stage of life.
