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Palliative care is an approach that aims to improve the quality of life for patients who are living with any life limiting illness, as well as their carers and those close to them.
It is not just for people who are nearing the end of their life or for people whose illness cannot be cured. Some palliative care services can also advise patients with complex problems whose illness is likely to be cured.
The aim of palliative care is to:
- control pain and other symptoms
- help you, your family and carers cope with emotional upset caused by your illness
- provide advice about practical problems relating to your illness, including financial issues
- help you to deal with any spiritual questions which may arise from your illness
- support you to discuss and communicate any preferences you may have for your care
- support family and carers through bereavement
