7 Common Myths about Palliative Care
Many people have preconceived notions about palliative care – what it is and when it might be a valuable addition to a patient’s total care plan. We address these myths and set the record straight.
- Myth: Receiving palliative care means there is no more hope for a cure.
-
Truth: Palliative care can actually increase hope for patients and their families. It is provided along with curative care to make the patient more comfortable. When the side effects of treatment are managed with palliative care, hope is reframed, allowing patients to focus on getting better and envision a positive outcome.
- Myth: Palliative care is only for older people.
-
Truth: Palliative care is appropriate and helpful for patients of all ages. Anyone with a serious illness, regardless of stage and prognosis, can benefit from compassionate management of the side effects of the illness and/or the curative treatments being given.
- Myth: Patients receiving palliative care may become depressed or anxious.
-
Truth: Palliative care services strive to manage both physical and emotional side effects of serious illness and the treatments being given. Patients are typically less anxious and have less depression when palliative care is involved.
- Myth: Palliative care is end-of-life care.
-
Truth: Although end-of-life care may be a component of palliative care for some patients, it is only one component of many. Palliative care actually deals with an array of patients with various symptoms and strives to better control those symptoms. Receiving palliative care can help identify and meet each patient’s preferences related to the management of their illness.
- Myth: I want to continue caring for my loved one. If palliative care begins, I won’t have any say.
-
Truth: Palliative care teams include the patient’s loved ones and family members at every stage. Your input and insight into the patient’s personal preferences and opinions are invaluable.
- Myth: People die sooner once they begin to receive palliative care.
-
Truth: Even when a diagnosis is terminal and the patient is receiving hospice care, evidence shows that patients who concurrently receive palliative care live longer and in greater comfort.
- Myth: My loved one’s symptoms are well controlled. They don’t need palliative care.
-
Truth: Even if the patient’s physical symptoms are well-managed, palliative care has been shown to improve quality of life and alleviate much of the stress/distress the patient may be experiencing.
Schedule a Palliative Care Consultation
If you or a loved one is being treated for a serious illness, the palliative care experts at University Hospitals can help. For more information or to schedule a consultation, call 1-866-UH4-CARE (1-866-844-2273).