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Palliative care in advanced dementia
Susan E Merel, Susan Merel1, Shaune DeMers2
1Division of General Internal Medicine, Department of Medicine, University of Washington, 1959 Northeast Pacific Street, Box 356429, Seattle, WA 98195-6429, USA.
Abstract:
Because neurodegenerative dementias are progressive and ultimately fatal, a palliative approach focusing on comfort, quality of life, and family support can have benefits for patients, families, and the health system. Elements of a palliative approach include discussion of prognosis and goals of care, completion of advance directives, and a thoughtful approach to common complications of advanced dementia. Physicians caring for patients with dementia should formulate a plan for end-of-life care in partnership with patients, families, and caregivers, and be prepared to manage common symptoms at the end of life in dementia, including pain and delirium.
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