Learning that cancer can no longer be cured, or that treatment is now focused on comfort rather than cure, can be one of the most difficult moments for patients and their families.
You may be experiencing many emotions, including sadness, fear, uncertainty or grief. These feelings are completely understandable.
Even during this stage of the cancer journey, you do not have to face it alone. Support is available to help you and your loved ones maintain comfort, dignity and quality of life.
What is palliative care?
Palliative care focuses on improving quality of life for people living with serious illnesses such as cancer.
Its goal is to help manage symptoms, provide emotional and psychological support, and help patients and families make informed decisions about their care.
Palliative care can be provided alongside cancer treatment and is not limited to the final stages of life.
Support may include:
- Managing pain and other symptoms.
- Emotional and psychological support.
- Practical advice for patients and caregivers.
- Help with advance care planning.
- Support for family members.
What is hospice care?
Hospice care is a type of palliative care for people who are approaching the end of life.
The focus shifts from curing illness to providing comfort, dignity and support for both the patient and their loved ones.
Depending on the person’s needs, hospice care may be provided at home, in a hospice or in another care setting.
Caring for your loved one
As a caregiver, you continue to play an important role.
You may help by:
- Providing comfort and companionship.
- Supporting your loved one’s wishes and preferences.
- Assisting with daily care where needed.
- Working closely with the healthcare team.
- Looking after practical matters together as a family.
Sometimes, simply being present is the most meaningful support you can offer.
Home Hospice Care
For patients who wish to remain at home, Singapore Cancer Society’s Home Hospice Care service provides medical, nursing and psychosocial support in a familiar environment.
Our multidisciplinary team works closely with patients, families and caregivers to help manage symptoms, provide emotional support and ensure care is centred around the patient’s wishes and needs.
If you would like to find out whether Home Hospice Care is suitable for your loved one, speak to your healthcare team or reach out to us at [email protected] for more information.
Looking after yourself
Caring for someone with advanced illness can be physically and emotionally demanding. It is important to remember that your well-being matters too.
Try to:
- Accept help from family and friends.
- Take regular breaks where possible.
- Talk openly about your own feelings.
- Seek emotional support when you need it.
- Continue looking after your own health.
Asking for help does not mean you are letting your loved one down.
Talking about care preferences
Conversations about future care can be difficult, but they can also provide clarity and reassurance.
When your loved one is ready, you may wish to discuss:
- Their wishes and priorities.
- Where they would prefer to receive care.
- The people they would like involved in decision-making.
- Practical matters that are important to them.
These conversations should happen at a pace that feels comfortable for everyone involved.
You do not have to do this alone
Palliative care is provided by a multidisciplinary team that may include doctors, nurses, Medical Social Workers, counsellors and other healthcare professionals.
They are there to support both patients and caregivers, answer questions and help you navigate this stage of the journey.
Never hesitate to ask for help if you are feeling overwhelmed or unsure about what to expect.
Every moment matters
Although this stage of the journey may be difficult, it can also be a time for meaningful conversations, shared memories and spending time with the people who matter most.
Focus on what is most important to your loved one and remember that support is available every step of the way.
Continue exploring
You may also find these resources helpful:
Understanding the Caregiver Role
Learn more about caring for a loved one with cancer and looking after your own well-being.
Planning Ahead: Making Your Healthcare Wishes Known
Learn about Advance Care Planning and other ways to communicate your healthcare wishes, giving you and your loved ones greater clarity and peace of mind.
We're here to support you
You and your loved ones do not have to navigate this stage of the journey alone. Singapore Cancer Society provides compassionate care and support to help patients and families maintain comfort, dignity and quality of life.
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