Physically fit and mentally agile
“Keep me physically fit and mentally agile.”
This should be the mantra for patients arriving on the palliative care unit. And I try and advocate for this on their behalf.
Look after the muscles:
Too often I see patients languishing in bed, quickly losing muscle strength which in turn increases their risk of falling when they try to walk. I crave more PT (physiotherapy) and OT (occupational therapy) support for the nursing staff.
I want to see patients sitting out of bed and mobilizing as much as possible (or even tango dancing as witnessed on a palliative care unit in Buenos Aires).
Look after the brain:
My patients are at high risk of developing delirium. Structured cognitive activities with input from recreation therapy, volunteers, and family would ensure regular brain stimulation. We also need to preserve the sleep-wake cycle with natural light and increased mobility during the daytime – This takes us back to the muscles! Everything is linked.
Look after the whole person and improve quality of life:
For the fundamental care of the whole person, we as healthcare providers must look after patients’ mind and body, as well as spirit. We must strive to help our patients ‘live’ until they die.
