To provide appropriate care that responds to the specific needs of people with life-limiting illnesses, it is important to recognise cultural considerations associated with end of life and bereavement.
TOPIC 4: Culture-centred care of people with life-limiting illnesses will provide an opportunity to develop knowledge and skills associated with providing culturally-appropriate care for people with life-limiting illnesses.
Case Study: Meet Amy, a 59-year-old woman who lives with her mother Mei and son Eric. Amy and Mei speak English as a second language. Amy has early onset probable Alzheimer’s disease. Mei and Eric care for Amy in their home until she requires a higher level of care than they can provide. On admission to the aged care facility, a medical interpreter is engaged to translate information to Amy and her family. The multidisciplinary team at the aged care facility provide end-of-life care for Amy and her family.
Aims and Objectives:
This focus topic is based on the core principles of palliative care and is designed to supplement the learning activities in Module 1: Principles of palliative care.
After completing this focus topic, you should be able to:
- Understand the role of culture in contributing to individuals’ experiences of living with a life-limiting illness
- Apply principles of culture-centred care when caring for people with life-limiting illnesses.