2006

Thursday 2nd November 2006
Information Evening on Palliative Care for the Elderly

Catholic Care of the Aged (CCA) will host a Community Forum on the benefits of a palliative approach to caring for the elderly on Wednesday 8 November at Western Suburbs (Newcastle) Leagues Club, commencing at 6.30pm.  Jacqui Culver, Clinical Nurse Consultant and Palliative Care Project Manager for CCA and other specialists in aged and palliative care will attend the session to provide information on a palliative approach to caring for older people living in residential care or the community. 

Ms Culver sees great benefit in using a palliative approach in aged care to ensure quality of life and maximum wellness through those final years.  While palliative care has traditionally been associated with cancer, the palliative approach recognises that there are many life limiting illnesses as people age which cause discomfort and reduce quality of life.  This approach encourages communication between nurses, doctors, the care recipient and family to improve life in the last stages of a chronic illness.

“Our primary goal is to improve the older person’s comfort and ability to function while addressing psychological, spiritual social and cultural needs.  In my experience this approach also supports carers, extended family and friends because of the open communication and partnerships which develop.  Doctors and nurses are recognising the importance of frank, open discussion around living well until the end of life.  This is the most important part of the palliative approach,” she said.

The forum is part of a larger research project conducted by Ruth Gregory, Palliative Care Project Co-ordinator for CCA which is identifying the needs of general practitioners in implementing a palliative approach for older people in residential aged care facilities and the community.  Funding for the project has been provided through the Local Palliative Care Grant Scheme, an initiative of the Commonwealth Department of Health and Aging.  The funding also provides for the development of education programs for staff, carers and volunteers.  While developed initially for CCA staff, the programs will be available for aged care workers and volunteers in the wider community.

Jacqui and Ruth both have significant experience in aged care education and palliative care.  Their aim is to not only better educate care workers but also to encourage volunteers in the community who share their passion for palliative care, to study and work alongside care staff in facilities.

“Palliative care can be a very beautiful and rewarding experience.  I would encourage people who have a desire to make a difference to develop these skills and work alongside care workers,” Jacqui said.

Additional monies received through the third round of funding from the Department will be used to develop and establish a palliative care “tool kit” to assist health care workers.

What: Information Evening on a Palliative Approach to Care for the Elderly
When: 8 November 2006 at 6.30pm
Where: Western Suburbs Leagues Club, Hobart Rd New Lambton, cost $5 with light refreshments.

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