It’s a fact: our population is getting older. As age increases so too does the cancer rate.  According to the Canadian Cancer Society, 61% of cancer deaths will occur among those who are at least 70 years old.  At the moment, cancer is the leading cause of death to Canadians yet, less than 60% of Canadian cancer patients receive appropriate end-of-life care. The paradox is obvious.   Every citizen should have access to qualified and skilled care in their final days, but they just aren’t getting it.
See this recent National Post article for more information. http://www.nationalpost.com/Cancer+Society+report+flags+inadequate+life+care/3048253/story.html

Making the decision to seek palliative care is not an easy one but if you find yourself faced with the judgment call to request extra help, it is important to know what services to look for and what is available to you.  Whether it’s private or public health care, your loved one deserves to live each day with dignity and comfort.    Having access to a skilled team that is ready and willing to go that extra mile for your loved one is crucial to providing the highest quality of care.  They should be trained and experienced in knowing the rights and responsibilities as caregivers in palliative situations.

Ensuring that your loved one is being treated by the highest quality of care possible should be top priority.  By moving palliative care from the hospital to the home, you and your family will have greater influence and control over the patient’s quality of life and nursing care process.  The added benefit of a familiar environment, while encouraging the patient’s independence, will ensure appropriate end-of-life care and greater peace of mind for all involved. 

Types of Home Care Available

The various CLSCs in Montreal offer a wide range of palliative services involving trained volunteers and registered nurses providing medical and non-medical support.  Non-profit organizations, such as the Victorian Order of Nurses, are also available who combine bereavement services and palliative nursing care. Privately, companies like Equinoxe who are ISO accredited and follow stringent guidelines as mandated by the National Association of Professional Geriatric Care Managers can offer a team of highly trained professionals of nurses and social workers to deliver all the necessities of palliative care including pain relief, emotional and physical support as well as respite for you or other family caregivers.

Palliative care should be personalized and detailed according to the patient’s physical, psychological and spiritual needs.  By doing the research, you will be able to choose the most suitable care needed for your loved one.