Death from acute causes is less common these days, particularly in an economically developed country such as Australia. As such, an expected death resulting from a chronic illness is a reality for many. 

The caring@home project is an important project that will assist in supporting people in the community to live and die in their own homes, ensuring optimal symptom control. Palliative care is a multi-disciplinary approach to care which aims to improve the quality of life for people living with a life-limiting illness, their families and carers. As dying is a normal part of life, it is important for all Australians to have discussions about death and dying and make decisions on the type of care they wish to receive. Palliative Care Australia research has shown that eight in ten Australians think it’s important to talk about their end-of-life wishes however only one in four have actually had the conversation.

Most Australian palliative care patients prefer to be cared for at home and the majority want to die at home, though less than 10 per cent achieve that wish.

Healy S, Israel F, Charles M, Reymond L. Laycarers can confidently prepare and administer subcutaneous injections for palliative care patients at home: A randomized controlled trial. Palliat Med. 2018 May 1:269216318773878. doi: 10.1177/0269216318773878.