What is end of life care?

What is end of life care?

End of life care helps people who are very sick. It is for people who may not get better. This care helps them feel better and comfortable.

If someone you know needs this care, talk to their doctor or nurse. They can help you understand what to do.

Sometimes, reading can be hard. You can ask someone to read to you or use a computer to help speak the words.

Who helps when someone is very sick and may not get better?

When does end of life care start?

End of life care starts when a doctor thinks you might be in the last year of your life. It helps people feel better and more comfortable. Supportive tools like picture cards or storyboards might help you understand more.

What help do people get at the end of their life?

People who are very sick and near the end of life get special care. This care helps them be comfortable and not in pain.

Here are some things that can help:

• Nurses and doctors help look after the person.
• Medicines to make sure they feel okay and are not in pain.
• Someone to talk to and listen if the person or family is worried or sad.
• Help with washing, dressing, and eating.

It is important to talk about wishes and what care is needed with family and helpers.

How does end of life care help family and friends?

End of life care helps people who are close to someone who is very sick. This care supports family and friends in different ways.

• Talk with them and listen to how they feel.
• Share information about what is happening.
• Help them with any worries or questions they have.
• Offer places to rest or take breaks.
• Give contact numbers for more support.

It’s important for family and friends to know they are not alone. They can use these tips:

• Ask the care team for help anytime.
• Find local groups or online support to talk with others.
• Use relaxation or breathing exercises to stay calm.

How do we help people in pain at the end of their life?

Can someone be cared for at home when they are very sick?

Yes, people can be looked after at home when they are very sick. This is called end of life care. Here's how it can happen:

• Family and friends can help. They can sit with the person, give them drinks, and help them feel comfortable.
• Doctors and nurses can come to the house. They help with medicine and any medical needs.
• There are special helpers called carers. They can come to help too.
• Sometimes, people use a hospital bed at home to make things easier.

If this sounds difficult, talking to a doctor or nurse can help. They know many ways to support you.

What is a hospice, and how does it help when someone is very sick and near the end of their life?

A hospice is a special place. It helps people who are very sick and near the end of their life.

Hospices give comfort and care. They make sure people feel as good as they can.

Hospice workers are kind and caring. They know how to help people and their families at this time.

Some people stay at the hospice. Others get help at home.

It’s about feeling safe, loved, and not in pain.

Tools like pictures and simple words can help explain what a hospice does.

Do you have to pay for care at the end of life?

How can I help someone I love who is very sick?

It can be hard when someone you love is very sick. Here are some ways you can help:

• Spend Time Together: Visit them and talk about happy memories or things they like.
• Listen: Let them say what they feel. Be a good listener.
• Comfort: Hold their hand or give a gentle hug if they want.
• Help with Tasks: Ask if they need help with small things, like getting water or reading a book.
• Be Patient: They might have good days and bad days. Be kind and patient.

If you feel sad or nervous, talking to someone you trust can help, too.

What is an advance care plan?

An advance care plan is a plan about your future health care. It tells people what care you want if you get very sick and can't speak for yourself.

How to make it easier:

• Talk to a trusted person about your wishes.
• Write down what care you would like.
• Use pictures or videos to show your wishes better.

Helpful tools:

• Ask someone to help you fill out forms.
• Use voice-to-text apps to record your wishes.
• Watch simple videos about advance care planning.

Does end of life care include spiritual care?

When someone is very sick and near the end of life, they need special care. This care can help with pain and make them comfortable. It can also help their families.

Spiritual care means helping with feelings, beliefs, and finding peace. It can include talking to someone about their thoughts and feelings.

It is important for the care team to know if spiritual care is needed. You can talk to them about what you or your family believes. This will help them give the right support.

There are things that can help, like:

• Talking to a pastor or spiritual guide.
• Listening to calming music or sounds.
• Doing breathing exercises to relax.

Always remember, you can ask for help at any time.

How can I talk to a doctor or nurse about end of life care?

Here is how you can talk to a doctor or nurse about end of life care:

• Think about what questions you want to ask. Write them down.
• Bring someone you trust with you to the meeting.
• Ask the doctor or nurse to use simple words.
• You can say you do not understand, and ask them to explain again.
• It is okay to feel sad or worried. You can talk about your feelings.
• Using pictures or drawings can help to understand better.

Remember, it is important to feel safe and supported. You can ask for help if you need it. You are not alone.

What is palliative care for people at the end of life?

Palliative care helps people who are very sick feel better. It is special care for people who are at the end of their life. The care helps them feel comfortable and not in pain.

Tools that might help:

• Pictures to show what palliative care is.
• Someone to explain the words step by step.

How can I make a plan for end of life care?

Making a plan for end of life care can help you and your family. It tells others what you want when you are very sick and at the end of your life. Here is how you can make a plan:

• Talk to your doctor: They can help you understand your choices.
• Write down what you want: Make a list of the things that are important to you.
• Choose someone to speak for you: Pick a person you trust to tell others what you want.
• Share your plan: Tell your family and friends about your plan.
• Keep your plan safe: Put your plan in a safe place where others can find it.

You can ask a trusted friend or family member to help you with the plan. You can also use tools like a checklist to make sure you do not forget anything important.