National Palliative Care Week 19 - 25 May 2019

What: National Palliative Care Week 
Who (in SA): Palliative Care South Australia
When: 19-25 May 2019
How: Promote awareness and work out what matters most to you with assistance from online resources – the online Dying to Talk Discussion Starter and Dying to Talk Card Game 
 
Palliative Care South Australia will be acknowledging and celebrating the tireless efforts of palliative care professionals and volunteers by supporting events across South Australia.

The week’s theme is ‘What Matters Most?’ which asks Australians to reflect on what would be most important to them if they became seriously unwell.

The Productivity Commission’s recent report into human services found between 80,000 and 140,000 of the 160,000 people who die each year in Australia could benefit from high-quality end-of-life care.

“Demand for palliative care is increasing. Professionals and volunteers are needed in our community to support patients and carers deal with dying, death and bereavement,” said Professor Gregory Crawford, Chair of Palliative Care South Australia
 
Professor Crawford, says that dying is a normal part of life so it is important for all Australians to have discussions about death and dying and they type of care they would want to receive if they could no longer speak for themselves.
 
“By having the conversation with their loved ones and health professionals, people can ensure their treatment and care best aligns with their values and preferences regarding both the type and place of care and place of death,” said Professor Crawford.
 
“We encourage everyone to discuss what matters most to them with their loved ones and health care team using the Dying to Talk Resources. Knowing what is important to you will reduce their burden at a difficult time and ensure you get the care you desire,” Professor Crawford said.
 
For more information on National Palliative Care Week visit http://palliativecare.org.au/national-palliative-care-week/
 
Download the Dying to Talk Discussion Starter at www.dyingtotalk.org.au
 
~ Contributed by Palliative Care South Australia