*Brought to you by Palliative Care Connect
Many people think palliative care is only for the final stages of life. In reality, it can begin from the time of diagnosis of a life-limiting illness and focuses on helping people live as well as possible, for as long as possible.
Palliative care supports people living with conditions such as cancer, dementia, neurological diseases, and advanced heart, kidney, liver and lung disease. It addresses physical symptoms as well as emotional, social and spiritual concerns, while also supporting families, friends and carers along the way.
What does palliative care involve?
Palliative care is often delivered by a team of people working together to support an individual's needs over time. This may include general practitioners, specialists, nurses, allied health professionals, aged care providers, community services, family members and carers.
It can also include planning ahead and discussing future care preferences, helping people make informed decisions about what matters most to them and ensuring their wishes are understood. People may also wish to record their future healthcare wishes in an Advance Care Directive. Find out more at www.advancecaredirectives.sa.gov.au.
How Palliative Care Connect can help
Understanding available services and knowing where to turn for support can sometimes feel overwhelming. Palliative Care Connect continues to provide a free statewide service that offers information and links to palliative care and bereavement supports for people living with a life-limiting illness, as well as their family, friends and carers.
People contact Palliative Care Connect for many reasons, including to:
- understand palliative care and what to expect
- learn about Advance Care Directives and planning ahead
- clarify information following a diagnosis
- navigate changes in symptoms or caring responsibilities
- find support that aligns with their preferences and needs
- access grief and bereavement support
- talk with someone who understands
The service is also available to health, aged care, disability and community service professionals seeking advice or support for clients.
Experienced Palliative Care Navigators provide practical guidance, connect people with relevant services and resources, and help them understand their options at any stage of the journey, from diagnosis through to bereavement. No referral is required.
Whether you're looking for information following a diagnosis, supporting a loved one, or seeking bereavement support, Palliative Care Connect can help.
Connect with us
Call: 1800-725-548 (PALLI8)
Hours: Monday - Friday, 8:30am to 4:00pm
Visit: www.palliativecareconnect.com.au
Palliative Care Connect is supported by funding from the Australian Government Department of Health, Disability and Ageing.
