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Palliative Care Week 2026- ‘It’s Not What You Think.’

During Palliative Care Week this September, we are highlighting information and resources that may be helpful to people living with Parkinson’s and their families.

For some people, hearing the words palliative care can feel worrying or overwhelming. It is often associated only with the last stages of life, but in reality, palliative care is about living as well as possible, for as long as possible, alongside Parkinson’s. 

Introducing palliative care does not mean that treatment is stopping, or that end of life is imminent. It simply opens the door to additional support focused on comfort, quality of life and what matters most to you. 

Talking about palliative care early is about information and reassurance, helping to reduce fear and making it easier to ask for support if needs change, for both people living with Parkinson’s and those close to them. 

Palliative care is about living well, with support and choice at every stage, and ensuring care reflects what matters most to the person with Parkinson’s. 

What is palliative care? 

The World Health Organisation defines palliative care as: “An approach that improves the quality of life of individuals and their families facing the problem associated with life-threatening illness, through the prevention and relief of suffering by means of early identification and impeccable assessment and treatment of pain and other problems, physical, psychosocial and spiritual.”  

Palliative care is a holistic approach to care that supports people living with a progressive condition such as Parkinson’s. It looks at the whole person, not just physical symptoms, and can be introduced at any stage of illness. 

Palliative care can help with: 

  • Managing symptoms that may be difficult or changing 
  • Emotional support, including worries, fears, or low mood 
  • Support for family members and carers 
  • Thinking about the future, at your own pace  
  • Helping you feel heard and supported in decisions about your care 

It is provided alongside your existing care and may involve your GP, neurologist, Parkinson’s nurse, allied health professionals, and specialist palliative care teams if and when needed. 

Like most people I regarded palliative care was for those who were terminally ill and near death.  

Imagine my elation when I read these words “anyone diagnosed with a progressive illness that cannot be cured, has an assessed clinical need and a right to be considered for palliative care. 

For the past two and a half years the palliative care team have improved my quality of life immeasurably by focusing on pain management. 

I cannot imagine life without their support, emotionally and psychologically.

– (Person Living with Parkinson’s for 17 years)   

What services are available in Ireland? 

Palliative care in Ireland is provided through the HSE, often in partnership with voluntary organisations. Support can be provided: 

  • In your own home 
  • In hospital 
  • In specialist palliative care units or hospices 
  • In community hospitals or nursing homes 

Palliative care is free of charge and does not require a medical card. 

Irish Hospice Foundation – information and support 

The Irish Hospice Foundation (IHF) provides national supports for people living with serious illness, for family members and for carers. These include: 

  • An Information & Support Line offering confidential advice and signposting around palliative and end‑of‑life care 
  • Think Ahead, a gentle tool to help people reflect on and share their wishes, if and when they feel ready 
  • A Bereavement Support Line for those affected by loss 
  • Education, advocacy, and nursing support services 

These services are available whether or not someone is receiving specialist palliative care. 

Who can I talk to? 

If palliative care is something you are considering, or if you would simply like more information, you might start by talking with: 

  • Your GP 
  • Your consultant or neurologist 
  • Your Parkinson’s nurse specialist 
  • Parkinson’s Ireland 
  • The Irish Hospice Foundation 

Reaching out for information does not mean you have to make any decisions. 

Taking things at your own pace 

Conversations about palliative care can be difficult and there is no right time to have them. These discussions can happen slowly and can be revisited as needs change. 

Palliative care is about choice, reassurance, and support, helping people living with Parkinson’s focus on what matters most to them, now and into the future. 

Signposting & support:  

The Irish Hospice Foundation has developed a range of practical resources on planning ahead, supportive care, and accessing services. If you would like to chat to our Parkinson’s nurse specialists, please call 1800 359 359. 

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