Palliative Care: Most Popular Articles
These articles are the most popular over the last month.
Writing a Condolence Letter
A sympathy or condolence letter can be a great source of comfort to someone who is grieving the loss of a loved one. Find tips on writing your own condolence letter.
A sympathy or condolence letter can be a great source of comfort to someone who is grieving the loss of a loved one. Find tips on writing your own condolence letter.
The Dying Process
The dying process usually starts well before death actually occurs. Learn how to recognize the signs of approaching death.
The dying process usually starts well before death actually occurs. Learn how to recognize the signs of approaching death.
How to Write a Eulogy
Information on funerals and memorials, including cultural and religious considerations. Tips on how to plan services and memorialize loved ones.
Information on funerals and memorials, including cultural and religious considerations. Tips on how to plan services and memorialize loved ones.
Stress
Definition of stress.
Definition of stress.
Euthanasia
What is euthanasia? Find the definition of euthanasia here.
What is euthanasia? Find the definition of euthanasia here.
Grief Quotes
Inspirational quotes on death, dying, and grief.
Inspirational quotes on death, dying, and grief.
Grief and Mourning
What is grief and why do we mourn? Find out what's normal and what's not.
What is grief and why do we mourn? Find out what's normal and what's not.
What is Palliative Care?
Description of palliative care, including goals, the palliative care team, and settings of care.
Description of palliative care, including goals, the palliative care team, and settings of care.
Planning a Meaningful Goodbye
Find out how to plan a meaningful funeral or memorial service for yourself or your loved one with these simple steps.
Find out how to plan a meaningful funeral or memorial service for yourself or your loved one with these simple steps.
Phases of Grief and Mourning
Understanding the four phases and tasks of grief and mourning is first step to moving through the grieving process.
Understanding the four phases and tasks of grief and mourning is first step to moving through the grieving process.
Medical Marijuana
A list of the pros and cons in the debate over medical marijuana.
A list of the pros and cons in the debate over medical marijuana.
What Is Hospice Care?
Hospice care is a philosophy of care that focuses on comfort and quality of life.
Hospice care is a philosophy of care that focuses on comfort and quality of life.
Probate
Probate is a legal process that takes place after a death. Find out what it involves here...
Probate is a legal process that takes place after a death. Find out what it involves here...
Interacting with the Dying
Talking to a dying person may feel awkward and uncomfortable. Find out why talking about death can be so difficult.
Talking to a dying person may feel awkward and uncomfortable. Find out why talking about death can be so difficult.
Survivor's Checklist
Checklist of responsibilities for survivors after a loved one's death.
Checklist of responsibilities for survivors after a loved one's death.
Morphine
Morphine Sulfate is considered the "gold standard" for treatment of moderate to severe pain in the palliative care and hospice setting. Learn more about it, including usage instructions and side effects.
Morphine Sulfate is considered the "gold standard" for treatment of moderate to severe pain in the palliative care and hospice setting. Learn more about it, including usage instructions and side effects.
Involuntary Euthanasia
Definition of Involuntary Euthanasia
Definition of Involuntary Euthanasia
Caring for a Dying Loved One
Information and tips for those caring for the dying. Includes information on the dying process and steps to take to ensure comfort. Focus on safety, comfort, eating and drinking, and restlessness.
Information and tips for those caring for the dying. Includes information on the dying process and steps to take to ensure comfort. Focus on safety, comfort, eating and drinking, and restlessness.
Remembering Veterans
World War I ended on the 11th day of the 11th month at the 11th hour, November 11th, 1918 on Armistice Day. Different countries observe Remembrance Day, Remembrance Sunday or Veterans Day as ways of commemorating the end of World War I. Some countries, like Australia and Canada, honor those who died serving their country in November each year on Armistice Day or Remembrance Sunday, like Britain. The United States honors all of their Veterans in November and their war dead in May.
World War I ended on the 11th day of the 11th month at the 11th hour, November 11th, 1918 on Armistice Day. Different countries observe Remembrance Day, Remembrance Sunday or Veterans Day as ways of commemorating the end of World War I. Some countries, like Australia and Canada, honor those who died serving their country in November each year on Armistice Day or Remembrance Sunday, like Britain. The United States honors all of their Veterans in November and their war dead in May.
DABDA
Definition of DABDA, the five stages of coping with death.
Definition of DABDA, the five stages of coping with death.
Getting Through the Holiday's
Strategies for surviving grief during the holidays. Information on the holidays and grief.
Strategies for surviving grief during the holidays. Information on the holidays and grief.
Causes of Death
List of leading causes of death in the United States.
List of leading causes of death in the United States.
Talking to the Dying
Common beliefs about talking to the dying and tips for talking to a dying friend or loved one.
Common beliefs about talking to the dying and tips for talking to a dying friend or loved one.
Life Support Decisions
Life support is any treatment intended to prolong life without curing or reversing the underlying medical condition. The decision of when to withdraw life support or if to begin it at all is a sticky one, muddled with confusing terms and strong emotions.
Life support is any treatment intended to prolong life without curing or reversing the underlying medical condition. The decision of when to withdraw life support or if to begin it at all is a sticky one, muddled with confusing terms and strong emotions.
Inurnment
Definition of inurnment
Definition of inurnment
Reasons for PAS
Why would anyone seek physician assisted suicide? Find out here
Why would anyone seek physician assisted suicide? Find out here
Hospice Myths
Myths about Hospice are still prevalent despite recent advances in public awareness.
Myths about Hospice are still prevalent despite recent advances in public awareness.
Angina
Angina definition
Angina definition
Advantages & Disadvantages
What are the advantages and disadvantages of hospice care? Find out here.
What are the advantages and disadvantages of hospice care? Find out here.
Nausea and Vomiting
Nausea is an unpleasant feeling in the stomach that may or may not be followed by vomiting. Vomiting is the sudden, forceful expulsion of the stomach contents. Find out how to treat both.....
Nausea is an unpleasant feeling in the stomach that may or may not be followed by vomiting. Vomiting is the sudden, forceful expulsion of the stomach contents. Find out how to treat both.....
Ceasing of Eating and Drinking
End of life decisions for hospice patients may include voluntary stopping of eating and drinking.
End of life decisions for hospice patients may include voluntary stopping of eating and drinking.
7 Ways to Whet an Appetite
Seven tips and tricks to increasing an appetite that has been diminished by illness.
Seven tips and tricks to increasing an appetite that has been diminished by illness.
Organ Donation Stats
An extensive article that looks at the topic of Organ Donation. This article encourages people to learn more, be inspired, become a Donor and give the gift of life. Information and resources are included to help readers download and complete a Donor Card to Carry, as well as tips for talking to families about this sometimes difficult topic.
An extensive article that looks at the topic of Organ Donation. This article encourages people to learn more, be inspired, become a Donor and give the gift of life. Information and resources are included to help readers download and complete a Donor Card to Carry, as well as tips for talking to families about this sometimes difficult topic.
Dyspnea
Shortness of breath, also known as dyspnea, is a common symptom in palliative care patients. Find out why it happens and what you can do to help.
Shortness of breath, also known as dyspnea, is a common symptom in palliative care patients. Find out why it happens and what you can do to help.
Demerol
Demerol is a narcotic pain reliever, also called an opioid. Learn about Demerol's uses and it's side effects.
Demerol is a narcotic pain reliever, also called an opioid. Learn about Demerol's uses and it's side effects.
Decreased Appetite
Loss of appetite and weight loss are common with many life-threatening illnesses. Find out why and how you can help...
Loss of appetite and weight loss are common with many life-threatening illnesses. Find out why and how you can help...
Karen Ann Quinlan
In 1975 Karen Ann Quinlan at the age of twenty-one became the focal point for the death with dignity or right to die movement after entering into an irreversible coma. Quinlan's was a landmark case that resulted in changing the way that many people look at life and death, what is a livable life and a dignified death. It also established a patient's right to refuse medical care and control his or her medical treatment.
In 1975 Karen Ann Quinlan at the age of twenty-one became the focal point for the death with dignity or right to die movement after entering into an irreversible coma. Quinlan's was a landmark case that resulted in changing the way that many people look at life and death, what is a livable life and a dignified death. It also established a patient's right to refuse medical care and control his or her medical treatment.
Levels of Hospice Care
There are four distinct levels of hospice care based on a patients needs: routine care, continuous care, inpatient care, and respite care.
There are four distinct levels of hospice care based on a patients needs: routine care, continuous care, inpatient care, and respite care.
Leading Causes of Infant Death
An explanation of the five leading causes of infant death or mortality.
An explanation of the five leading causes of infant death or mortality.
Grieving Children
Learn about how children deal with grief. Find out what myths about children's grief could be keeping them from getting the support they need.
Learn about how children deal with grief. Find out what myths about children's grief could be keeping them from getting the support they need.
Bindi's Eulogy for Steve Irwin
On on September 20, 2006 Bindi Iwrin delivered one of the most moving memorials in recent memory--her final tribute to her Dad, Steve Irwin who died suddenly and unexpectedly on September 4, 2006. The text of her memorable and inspiring tribute is included.
On on September 20, 2006 Bindi Iwrin delivered one of the most moving memorials in recent memory--her final tribute to her Dad, Steve Irwin who died suddenly and unexpectedly on September 4, 2006. The text of her memorable and inspiring tribute is included.
Fear of Death
Overview of the reasons many people fear death, including healthy and unhealthy fears and tips for overcoming fears.
Overview of the reasons many people fear death, including healthy and unhealthy fears and tips for overcoming fears.
What is Palliative Chemo?
Palliative chemotherapy is the use of chemical substances to slow the progression of cancer and prolong life.
Palliative chemotherapy is the use of chemical substances to slow the progression of cancer and prolong life.
Medication Safety
Medication safety is important when your caring for a loved one. Find tips on giving medications safely.
Medication safety is important when your caring for a loved one. Find tips on giving medications safely.
Obituary Defined
An obituary is a notice or announcement, especially in a newspaper, of a person's death, often with a short account of their life. It is often the first thing many people read in the news each day and may be the last word written about a person's life.
An obituary is a notice or announcement, especially in a newspaper, of a person's death, often with a short account of their life. It is often the first thing many people read in the news each day and may be the last word written about a person's life.
Dementia
When is palliative care appropriate for patients with dementia? Find information about dementia and hospice criteria for dementia.
When is palliative care appropriate for patients with dementia? Find information about dementia and hospice criteria for dementia.
Artificial Nutrition
Making the decision to withhold or withdraw artificial nutrition and hydration raises intellectual, philosophical, and emotional conflicts for many people. It is often helpful for people faced with that difficult decision to understand what science and medicine have found regarding artificial nutrition and hydration at the end of life.
Making the decision to withhold or withdraw artificial nutrition and hydration raises intellectual, philosophical, and emotional conflicts for many people. It is often helpful for people faced with that difficult decision to understand what science and medicine have found regarding artificial nutrition and hydration at the end of life.
John Cleese's Humorous Eulogy
In 1989 John Cleese delivered a memorable memorial speech for his friend and former Monty Python partner Graham Chapman at a memorial service held in the Great Hall at St Bartholomew's Hospital. This humorous eulogy for Chapman has become a classic in which Cleese advantage of "this glorious opportunity to shock you all on his behalf," which he proceeded to do.
In 1989 John Cleese delivered a memorable memorial speech for his friend and former Monty Python partner Graham Chapman at a memorial service held in the Great Hall at St Bartholomew's Hospital. This humorous eulogy for Chapman has become a classic in which Cleese advantage of "this glorious opportunity to shock you all on his behalf," which he proceeded to do.
Myths and Truths
Grief myths and the truth behind them.
Grief myths and the truth behind them.
What is Pain?
Pain is a unique symptom that varies person to person.
Pain is a unique symptom that varies person to person.
Palliative Care for Children
Information about pediatric palliative care and hospice for children.
Information about pediatric palliative care and hospice for children.
Pain Assessment
Recognizing and assessing pain is essential to the proper treatment of it. Find out how you can assess pain properly.
Recognizing and assessing pain is essential to the proper treatment of it. Find out how you can assess pain properly.
Obituary or Death Notice
There are several things to consider before deciding to place an obituary or death notice. Many of the considerations involve the fact that an obituary notice is a classified advertisement and as such require fees to submit. Also include are a few more cost effective, unique and creative alternatives to the traditional death notice.
There are several things to consider before deciding to place an obituary or death notice. Many of the considerations involve the fact that an obituary notice is a classified advertisement and as such require fees to submit. Also include are a few more cost effective, unique and creative alternatives to the traditional death notice.
Ways of Managing Distress
This article provides practical and postive ways of managing stress and distress.
This article provides practical and postive ways of managing stress and distress.
Am I Ready for Hospice?
My doctor told me I have a terminal illness and that I should consider hospice care, but am I ready for hospice care?
My doctor told me I have a terminal illness and that I should consider hospice care, but am I ready for hospice care?
Cancer
Palliative care began as a way to treat symptoms of cancer and side effects of it's treatment.
Palliative care began as a way to treat symptoms of cancer and side effects of it's treatment.
Milk and Molasses Enema
A milk and molasses enema can help treat severe constipation. Learn how to make this enema at home.
A milk and molasses enema can help treat severe constipation. Learn how to make this enema at home.
Hospice Statistics
In 2005 1.2 million people with life-limiting illnesses received care from one of the more than 4000 hospice programs in the United States. The National Hospice and Palliative Care Organization and the National Association for Home Care and Hospice provided updated facts and figures representing data collected in 2005 as part of the National Hospice and Palliative Care Month celebrated in November.
In 2005 1.2 million people with life-limiting illnesses received care from one of the more than 4000 hospice programs in the United States. The National Hospice and Palliative Care Organization and the National Association for Home Care and Hospice provided updated facts and figures representing data collected in 2005 as part of the National Hospice and Palliative Care Month celebrated in November.
Methadone vs Morphine
Overview of methadone's pain-relieving properties and comparisons with morphine and other opiates.
Overview of methadone's pain-relieving properties and comparisons with morphine and other opiates.
Leading Causes of Death
In 2000 well over a third of all deaths in the United States could be attributed to a limited number of largely preventable behaviors and exposures--tobacco use (smoking), poor diet and physical inactivity and alcohol consumption.
In 2000 well over a third of all deaths in the United States could be attributed to a limited number of largely preventable behaviors and exposures--tobacco use (smoking), poor diet and physical inactivity and alcohol consumption.
Hospice Nurse
Considering hospice nursing? Here is a profile of a typical hospice nurse.
Considering hospice nursing? Here is a profile of a typical hospice nurse.
Voluntary Active Euthanasia
Definition of Voluntary Active Euthanasia
Definition of Voluntary Active Euthanasia
Write a Condolence Letter
A condolence letter or sympathy note may be one of the most challenging correspondences to write, but sending a message of compassion can also be a worthwhile experience. The benefit of sending condolence letters is often more clearly understood once you have been in a position of receiving condolence letters.
A condolence letter or sympathy note may be one of the most challenging correspondences to write, but sending a message of compassion can also be a worthwhile experience. The benefit of sending condolence letters is often more clearly understood once you have been in a position of receiving condolence letters.
Coping with Challenge
Following a loss, death, tragic event or major life challenge, it may be difficult to remember to take care for oneself. Focusing on the basis survival needs for the body--remembering to eat, sleep and exercise--is especially needed initially after a life changing event. This short list provides basic, healthy coping strategies to keep you moving during the first few days.
Following a loss, death, tragic event or major life challenge, it may be difficult to remember to take care for oneself. Focusing on the basis survival needs for the body--remembering to eat, sleep and exercise--is especially needed initially after a life changing event. This short list provides basic, healthy coping strategies to keep you moving during the first few days.
Most Likely Ways of Dying
The leading causes of death are combined with the person's odds of dying from a particular cause to determine which the various ways a person is likely to die. This type of information is helpful in modifying lifestyle behaviors e.g. wearing seatbelts, helmets or life jackets to increase the odds of surviving motor vehicle, motorcycle and water accidents and taking care when crossing the street to minimize pedestrian accidents.
The leading causes of death are combined with the person's odds of dying from a particular cause to determine which the various ways a person is likely to die. This type of information is helpful in modifying lifestyle behaviors e.g. wearing seatbelts, helmets or life jackets to increase the odds of surviving motor vehicle, motorcycle and water accidents and taking care when crossing the street to minimize pedestrian accidents.
The Argument Against PAS
Those who are in opposition to physician assisted suicide commonly argue four main points. Find out what they are here.
Those who are in opposition to physician assisted suicide commonly argue four main points. Find out what they are here.
Renal Dialysis Definition
Renal dialysis is the process of filtering the blood, the way kidneys normally do, using a machine.
Renal dialysis is the process of filtering the blood, the way kidneys normally do, using a machine.
Good Death
Twelve principles of a Good Death were identified in The Future of Health and Care of Older People by the Debate of the Age Health and Care Study Group. These principles of a good death are included in the article.
Twelve principles of a Good Death were identified in The Future of Health and Care of Older People by the Debate of the Age Health and Care Study Group. These principles of a good death are included in the article.
Help a Child Cope with Death
How to Help a Child Cope with Death provides helpful information and suggestions for the important people in a child's life--parents, caregivers, teachers, medical professionals and other significant adults.
How to Help a Child Cope with Death provides helpful information and suggestions for the important people in a child's life--parents, caregivers, teachers, medical professionals and other significant adults.
Hospice
Short definition of Hospice.
Short definition of Hospice.
Indirect Euthanasia
Definition of Indirect Euthanasia
Definition of Indirect Euthanasia
Life Review
A dying person may prepare for death by using a life review or life reconciliation. These are the five stages of life review.
A dying person may prepare for death by using a life review or life reconciliation. These are the five stages of life review.
Do We Need Palliative Care?
What is Palliative Care and does your loved one need it?
What is Palliative Care and does your loved one need it?
Pain Management
Pain management options in palliative care.
Pain management options in palliative care.
Organize a Eulogy
After collecting all of the information about the person's life, the next task is deciding how to organize the facts, stories, memories and notable details into a eulogy or memorial, memorial speech.
After collecting all of the information about the person's life, the next task is deciding how to organize the facts, stories, memories and notable details into a eulogy or memorial, memorial speech.
Uses for Medical Marijuana
A list of potential uses for medical marijuana.
A list of potential uses for medical marijuana.
Elton's Memorial for Diana
On September 6, 1997 Sir Elton John sang a moving, memorable, musical tribute to his dear friend, Diana the Princess of Wales as part of her funeral service. He has only performed this version of Candle in the Wind, 1997 once--at the funeral.
On September 6, 1997 Sir Elton John sang a moving, memorable, musical tribute to his dear friend, Diana the Princess of Wales as part of her funeral service. He has only performed this version of Candle in the Wind, 1997 once--at the funeral.
Killer Number Three
Stroke is the third-leading cause of death making palliative care programs for stroke mortality essential.
Stroke is the third-leading cause of death making palliative care programs for stroke mortality essential.
CPR
Short definition of CPR
Short definition of CPR
Anticipatory Grief
Explanation of Anticipatory Grief.
Explanation of Anticipatory Grief.
DNR and No Code
What is a Do Not Resuscitate (DNR) order, and how can you decide whether a DNR is right for you?
What is a Do Not Resuscitate (DNR) order, and how can you decide whether a DNR is right for you?
Helping a Grieving Friend
Tips for helping a grieving friend and offering your condolences.
Tips for helping a grieving friend and offering your condolences.
Least Likely Ways of Dying
The various causes of death are combined with the person's odds of dying from a particular cause to determine which the various ways a person is least likely to die from during his or her lifetime.
The various causes of death are combined with the person's odds of dying from a particular cause to determine which the various ways a person is least likely to die from during his or her lifetime.
Preventing Pressure Ulcers
Tips to help you prevent the development of pressure sores on your loved one.
Tips to help you prevent the development of pressure sores on your loved one.
Definition of Loss
Definition of Loss
Definition of Loss
Dementia Causes
Various types and causes of dementia that may be seen in the palliative care and hospice setting.
Various types and causes of dementia that may be seen in the palliative care and hospice setting.
Plan Your Own Funeral
Funeral planning is never fun but planning your own can ensure you get what you want.
Funeral planning is never fun but planning your own can ensure you get what you want.
H1N1 Flu Vaccine
Hospice patients are high risk for contracting the H1N1 flu virus. Should hospice patients get an H1N1 flu vaccine?
Hospice patients are high risk for contracting the H1N1 flu virus. Should hospice patients get an H1N1 flu vaccine?
Does Hospice Mean No Hope?
A frequently asked question about hospice care: Does choosing hospice care mean giving up?
A frequently asked question about hospice care: Does choosing hospice care mean giving up?
Caregiver Stress
Caregivers face a variety of physical, emotional, and socio-economic strains that can cause caregiver stress and, if not properly relieved, lead to caregiver burn-out.
Caregivers face a variety of physical, emotional, and socio-economic strains that can cause caregiver stress and, if not properly relieved, lead to caregiver burn-out.
Unhelpful Actions
There are some things that are unhelpful to say and do to a dying friend or loved one. Find out what they are...
There are some things that are unhelpful to say and do to a dying friend or loved one. Find out what they are...
Intro to Difficult Decisions
Making difficult health care decisions begins by evaluating your goals of care.
Making difficult health care decisions begins by evaluating your goals of care.
Methadone Information
Find answers to your questions about the pain medication Methadone, including uses, side effects and precautions.
Find answers to your questions about the pain medication Methadone, including uses, side effects and precautions.
National Hospice Month
Description of National Hospice and Palliative Care Month.
Description of National Hospice and Palliative Care Month.
Medicare Benefit
Medicare was the first health care system in the U.S. to cover hospice related services, leading the way for Medicaid and private insurance companies. Medicare covers a wide range of services to provide the most comprehensive care as possible.
Medicare was the first health care system in the U.S. to cover hospice related services, leading the way for Medicaid and private insurance companies. Medicare covers a wide range of services to provide the most comprehensive care as possible.
Health Care Reform
How will health care reform affect older Americans and Senior Citizens?
How will health care reform affect older Americans and Senior Citizens?
Coping beyond the Basics
Following a loss, death, tragic event or major life challenge, it may be difficult to remember to take care for oneself. After making it through the first few days just focusing on the basics, the grieving person may need some helpful suggestions to keep going. This short list provides additional coping strategies to keep you moving beyond first few days.
Following a loss, death, tragic event or major life challenge, it may be difficult to remember to take care for oneself. After making it through the first few days just focusing on the basics, the grieving person may need some helpful suggestions to keep going. This short list provides additional coping strategies to keep you moving beyond first few days.
Marinol vs Marijuana
A discussion of the pros and cons of both smoked medical marijuana and Marinol, a synthetic form of THC.
A discussion of the pros and cons of both smoked medical marijuana and Marinol, a synthetic form of THC.
Tree of Light and Life
Many hospice organizations recognize that the holidays can be a distressing and difficult time for those grieving the loss of a loved one. They have created tree lighting ceremonies and remembrances as part of new holiday traditions to honor those who have died as a way of helping the survivors cope with the loss during the holidays, be around others who can empathize with their loss and share the memories of their loved ones who have died.
Many hospice organizations recognize that the holidays can be a distressing and difficult time for those grieving the loss of a loved one. They have created tree lighting ceremonies and remembrances as part of new holiday traditions to honor those who have died as a way of helping the survivors cope with the loss during the holidays, be around others who can empathize with their loss and share the memories of their loved ones who have died.
Medical Marijuana FAQ's
Frequently asked questions about medical marijuana and Marinol, and FDA approved synthetic form of Delta-9-THC.
Frequently asked questions about medical marijuana and Marinol, and FDA approved synthetic form of Delta-9-THC.
Child Coping with Death
Children tend to be highly resilient even when coping with a death or significant loss. This article provides information for parents, grandparents and other significant adults to provide them with ways to help a child cope with a death or a loss by maintaining routines, reassuring, reactions, reminiscing and remembering.
Children tend to be highly resilient even when coping with a death or significant loss. This article provides information for parents, grandparents and other significant adults to provide them with ways to help a child cope with a death or a loss by maintaining routines, reassuring, reactions, reminiscing and remembering.
Chosing a Funeral Provider
There are many different choices to be made when deciding on a funeral provider, other burial or aftercare options after a loved one has died. This list of items can be helpful when comparing costs of various services offered by different providers and different types of providers.
There are many different choices to be made when deciding on a funeral provider, other burial or aftercare options after a loved one has died. This list of items can be helpful when comparing costs of various services offered by different providers and different types of providers.
Anger
Anger is a common stage of coping with a terminal illness. Here are tips for dealing with a dying loved ones' anger.
Anger is a common stage of coping with a terminal illness. Here are tips for dealing with a dying loved ones' anger.
What is End of Life?
End of life is considered to be the period of time marked by disability or disease that is progressively worse until death. It is also considered to be the final stage of the journey of life. End of Life Care is the care provided to a person in their final stages of life. Also known as comfort care, supportive care, palliative care or symptom management.
End of life is considered to be the period of time marked by disability or disease that is progressively worse until death. It is also considered to be the final stage of the journey of life. End of Life Care is the care provided to a person in their final stages of life. Also known as comfort care, supportive care, palliative care or symptom management.
Palliative Care for Stroke
A stroke, or cerebral vascular accident (CVA), is the third leading cause of death making palliative care for stroke essential.
A stroke, or cerebral vascular accident (CVA), is the third leading cause of death making palliative care for stroke essential.
Memorial/Memorial Service
Definition of Memorial/Memorial Service
Definition of Memorial/Memorial Service
Finding Care
Suggestions and resources to help patients and families find palliative and hospice care.
Suggestions and resources to help patients and families find palliative and hospice care.
NSAID's
Non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drugs are a class of medications used to treat mild pain.
Non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drugs are a class of medications used to treat mild pain.
Suicide and Suicidal Behavior
Definition of Suicide and Suicidal behavior
Definition of Suicide and Suicidal behavior
Biological Death
Definition of Biological Death
Definition of Biological Death
Intubation
Short definition of intubation.
Short definition of intubation.
Flu Symptoms
Early recognition of flu symptoms can help you better treat the illness.
Early recognition of flu symptoms can help you better treat the illness.
Treating Constipation
Constipation is a common symptom for patients near the end of life. Preventing and treating constipation is vital to ensure comfort.
Constipation is a common symptom for patients near the end of life. Preventing and treating constipation is vital to ensure comfort.
Skilled Nursing
Brief definition of skilled nursing.
Brief definition of skilled nursing.
Traveling with Oxygen
Tips for traveling with oxygen by car, bus, airplane, or cruise line.
Tips for traveling with oxygen by car, bus, airplane, or cruise line.
Physician-assisted Suicide
Definition of Physician Assisted Suicide
Definition of Physician Assisted Suicide
Palliative Chemotherapy
When deciding if palliative chemotherapy is right for you, it's important to have as much information as possible.
When deciding if palliative chemotherapy is right for you, it's important to have as much information as possible.
Palliative Sedation
An overview of palliative sedation to alleviate suffering.
An overview of palliative sedation to alleviate suffering.
Clinical Death
Definition of Clinical Death
Definition of Clinical Death
Help for a Dying Loved One
If your loved one is dying, you might be wondering how you can help. Here is a list of helpful actions you can take to help your dying loved one.
If your loved one is dying, you might be wondering how you can help. Here is a list of helpful actions you can take to help your dying loved one.
Advanced Directives
Definition of Advanced Directives - Advanced Healthcare Directives
Definition of Advanced Directives - Advanced Healthcare Directives
Terminal Restlessness
A definition of terminal restlessness - a common symptom at the end of life.
A definition of terminal restlessness - a common symptom at the end of life.
Definition of a Eulogy
Definition of a Eulogy
Definition of a Eulogy
Recognizing Death
Signs of a death are provided for visitors to have an idea of what to expect and anticipate when a death occurs. These signs of death are general guidelines for telling a death has occurred. Not all people go through all the signs and some die suddenly. The criteria used by healthcare professional qualified to pronounce a death is included in parentheses.
Signs of a death are provided for visitors to have an idea of what to expect and anticipate when a death occurs. These signs of death are general guidelines for telling a death has occurred. Not all people go through all the signs and some die suddenly. The criteria used by healthcare professional qualified to pronounce a death is included in parentheses.
Health Care Reform_EOL
Discussion of how health care reform in 2009 will affect end-of-life care.
Discussion of how health care reform in 2009 will affect end-of-life care.
Book Review: Final Gifts
Final Gifts, a book about the needs and communications of the dying, claims that you will discover gifts of wisdom, faith, and love that the dying leave us. Find out what the About.com Guide to Palliative Care thinks about the book here.
Final Gifts, a book about the needs and communications of the dying, claims that you will discover gifts of wisdom, faith, and love that the dying leave us. Find out what the About.com Guide to Palliative Care thinks about the book here.
Hospice and End of Life Care
This collection of resources is an excellent starting point to understand more about hospice, palliative and end of life care. Hospice is a special concept of care that provides comfort and support to patients and their families at the end of life. Palliative care are services that help to alleviate, lessen, or provide relief of symptoms that interfere with quality of life when curative treatments are no longer an option with life-threatening illnesses.
This collection of resources is an excellent starting point to understand more about hospice, palliative and end of life care. Hospice is a special concept of care that provides comfort and support to patients and their families at the end of life. Palliative care are services that help to alleviate, lessen, or provide relief of symptoms that interfere with quality of life when curative treatments are no longer an option with life-threatening illnesses.
Fee or Free Notice
Some newspapers will run obituary notices for free, others view death notices or obituary notices as advertisements, handled by the Classified Advertising Department and therefore are subject to fees to publish. Families should check the requirements for publishing obituaries or death notices in their newspapers to find out if the announcement will run for free or require a fee to publish.
Some newspapers will run obituary notices for free, others view death notices or obituary notices as advertisements, handled by the Classified Advertising Department and therefore are subject to fees to publish. Families should check the requirements for publishing obituaries or death notices in their newspapers to find out if the announcement will run for free or require a fee to publish.
A Good Death
Definition of a Good Death
Definition of a Good Death
Choosing a Final Resting Place
People have many options with their choices of final resting places. Direct burial and cremation are the most popular and the most traditional choices. Some are choosing more creative options to be scattered or buried at sea, to have part of their remains sent into space or made into works of art or jewelry. This article reviews these final resting places from the traditional to the creative.
People have many options with their choices of final resting places. Direct burial and cremation are the most popular and the most traditional choices. Some are choosing more creative options to be scattered or buried at sea, to have part of their remains sent into space or made into works of art or jewelry. This article reviews these final resting places from the traditional to the creative.
Position Someone in Bed
A step-by-step guide to help you position a person in bed.
A step-by-step guide to help you position a person in bed.
Five Wishes
What is Five Wishes? How can it help me with advanced health care planning? Find out here.
What is Five Wishes? How can it help me with advanced health care planning? Find out here.
Pressure Ulcer Risks
Information on risk factors associated with the development of pressure ulcers, also known as bedsores.
Information on risk factors associated with the development of pressure ulcers, also known as bedsores.
Healthy Lifestyle Choices
There six lifestyle behaviors that seem to have the greatest influence on a person's health, longevity and psychological age. What you choose to eat, drink or otherwise ingest, how much you sleep and how active you choose to be can significantly impact both your health and longevity. Health-promoting lifestyle choices can help reduce the risk of developing chronic disease and the causes of premature death.
There six lifestyle behaviors that seem to have the greatest influence on a person's health, longevity and psychological age. What you choose to eat, drink or otherwise ingest, how much you sleep and how active you choose to be can significantly impact both your health and longevity. Health-promoting lifestyle choices can help reduce the risk of developing chronic disease and the causes of premature death.
Sedation vs Euthanasia
Does palliative sedation cause death, like euthanasia? What separates palliative sedation from euthanasia and physician-assisted suicide?
Does palliative sedation cause death, like euthanasia? What separates palliative sedation from euthanasia and physician-assisted suicide?
Cheyne-Stokes
Cheyne-Stokes respirations are defined by irregular breathing.
Cheyne-Stokes respirations are defined by irregular breathing.
Advance Directives
Make your wishes known and plan ahead using an advance directive. Find out what it is and how to use it.
Make your wishes known and plan ahead using an advance directive. Find out what it is and how to use it.
Bereavement
Definition of Bereavement, objective event of loss
Definition of Bereavement, objective event of loss
Death in Everyday Language
When speaking of death and dying Americans, in particular, go to great lengths to avoid using the words dying, death, or dead. Instead various euphemisms-a mild, indirect or vague term or slang terms are used that are felt to be less harsh, blunt or offensive. In contrast, terms and expressions with death, dying, and killing are becoming part of the standard language. Death & Dying language can be found used in situations that have nothing to do with death, as part of the expressions we use.
When speaking of death and dying Americans, in particular, go to great lengths to avoid using the words dying, death, or dead. Instead various euphemisms-a mild, indirect or vague term or slang terms are used that are felt to be less harsh, blunt or offensive. In contrast, terms and expressions with death, dying, and killing are becoming part of the standard language. Death & Dying language can be found used in situations that have nothing to do with death, as part of the expressions we use.
Lift a Person Safely
Tips to help you safely lift someone you are caring for.
Tips to help you safely lift someone you are caring for.
Grief Myths & Realities
People in Western society are socialized to believe certain things about the normal grief response; many of these are inaccurate and untrue. These common misconceptions and myths have become part of our cultural beliefs of the grieving process. This section explores the Myths and Realities about the Nature of Grief. This section explores the Myths and Realities about the Emotions and Physical Symptoms of Grief.
People in Western society are socialized to believe certain things about the normal grief response; many of these are inaccurate and untrue. These common misconceptions and myths have become part of our cultural beliefs of the grieving process. This section explores the Myths and Realities about the Nature of Grief. This section explores the Myths and Realities about the Emotions and Physical Symptoms of Grief.
Private Caregivers vs Agencies
A comparison of hiring a private caregiver and a caregiver from an agency. Tips to help patients and families choose the best choice for them.
A comparison of hiring a private caregiver and a caregiver from an agency. Tips to help patients and families choose the best choice for them.
No. 2 Killer: Cancer
Information about cancer and palliative care, including hospice care.
Information about cancer and palliative care, including hospice care.
DNR - Do Not Resuscitate
Definition of DNR - Do Not Resuscitate
Definition of DNR - Do Not Resuscitate
Health Tips for Caregivers
If you're caring for someone who is elderly or ill, you will need to take care to keep them, and yourself, healthy. Find health tips here.
If you're caring for someone who is elderly or ill, you will need to take care to keep them, and yourself, healthy. Find health tips here.
Hospice Diagnosis
A patient is admitted to hospice with a terminal diagnosis that will determine what is covered under the hospice benefit.
A patient is admitted to hospice with a terminal diagnosis that will determine what is covered under the hospice benefit.
Advanced Directive
Definition of an Advanced Directive.
Definition of an Advanced Directive.
Active Dying
Definition of Active Dying
Definition of Active Dying
Interment
Definition of Interment
Definition of Interment
Change or Reposition
Instructions on how to change a person in bed. How to reposition a person in bed including how to change a diaper and changing sheets.
Instructions on how to change a person in bed. How to reposition a person in bed including how to change a diaper and changing sheets.