While most people think of palliative care as something only for the seriously ill, it can benefit the elderly, too. In palliative care, a specialized medical team works with the patient, caregiver, family and the patient’s doctor to develop treatments that provide symptom relief and reduce stress. Palliative care treatment doesn’t mean the same thing for everyone. It may include one or more of the following:

  • massage therapy,
  • exercise plan,
  • special diet,
  • respiratory treatments,
  • physical therapy,
  • mental health counseling,
  • spiritual counseling, or
  • other treatment, as recommended.

How It Helps Mental Outlook

Many studies examined the link between palliative care and patient outlook using cancer patients. Many of the complaints these patients had before the care program included those many elderly echo:

  • lack of or reduction in physical strength,
  • time spent in bed during the day,
  • inability to do something they intended ir wanted to do, and
  • being dependent on others.

These factors reduce their quality of life which affects their mental outlook. One study conducted in a nursing home found patients most desired physical activity even during their last three days of life. Most study participants cited a desire for increased mobility (88 percent).

The Right Exercise for You

With that in mind, and knowing that physical exercise extends long-term health and longevity, adding an exercise routine to elderly palliative care makes good sense. Doctor recommended and care giver-assisted exercise can help even those getting a late start in the exercise game. Consult your doctor to form an exercise plan that’s safe, but not too strenuous. Talk with your doctor about your interests to develop a plan you’ll enjoy. It might include walking or dancing or seated exercises. Swimming or water aerobics provide gentle, weightless exercise. You can even build a routine using Wii games.

Reap the Benefits

Of course, you’ll benefit from increased physical strength and abilities, but exercise as a part of palliative care, also provides many other benefits. One study of a group exercise program of 50 minutes of activity revealed improved emotional functioning and reduced physical fatigue. Weight-bearing exercise increases bone density which results in fracture reduction. Body fat reduction improves heart health and blood sugar levels. The improved blood flow during exercise also helps bolster mental acuity and lower dementia and Alzheimer’s risk. Finally, exercise helps alleviate depression and reduce anxiety. So, palliative care helps you reap benefits in the three important areas of:

  • symptom reduction,
  • physical strength, and
  • mental health.

Enhance your medical treatment by including palliative care. Many insurance programs cover it. Many hospitals now offer palliative programs as an integral part of treatment. Enjoy the benefits of natural ways of alleviating pain and symptoms, and reducing stress and anxiety. Getting started is easy. Call your doctor and ask about palliative care services.


VNA & Hospice is dedicated to providing the highest quality healthcare to residents of the Central Coast and Monterey County. Registered nurses and skilled staff members provide many services, including senior home care, hospice health care, palliative care, orthopedic rehabilitation, and more.