Overview of family support in palliative care

Support for the family of a patient with palliative care needs is an important aspect of routine care, and all members of the healthcare team have a role in providing this support. ‘Family’ should be interpreted in the broadest manner—it includes whoever the patient says is important to them.

Family members who take on the role of principal carer often find the caregiving role stressful, and support from the healthcare team can be of great benefit; see Support for carers in palliative care.