Strengthening a palliative approach to Long-Term Care
A palliative approach in long-term care (LTC) relies on evidence-based processes to provide high quality care for LTC residents living with chronic and life-limiting illnesses. This approach provides individuals with a seamless transition from chronic disease management to appropriate end-of-life planning and care. Working alongside health professionals and family members, individuals with a life-limiting or life-ending illness are involved throughout the illness trajectory. Care is rooted in open and honest conversations so residents can ensure their personal, spiritual and emotional concerns are heard and addressed.
Impact
Failure to proactively identify, discuss, and address end-of-life issues often leads to costly hospital stays and creates added stress or burden for families. Families and staff sometimes feel uncomfortable initiating early discussions about palliative care or what to do in the event of a change in health status. However, strengthening the capacity of long-term care (LTC) homes to engage in and support these discussions has real impact. Early research demonstrates that implementing a palliative approach to care in LTC leads to improved family satisfaction and a 55% reduction in emergency department visits for residents in their last year of life. As a result, more LTC residents can be supported to die at home, according to their wishes.