When older family members and loved ones can no longer make decisions for themselves, the role of the carer becomes pivotal in their wellbeing and wishes for the future. This is especially true when dealing with diagnoses like dementia and other life-limiting conditions, when decision making can become the sole burden of the carer, adding to their emotional load.
In this way and so many others, carers frequently sacrifice their own needs, both present and future, to their own detriment. Palliative Care Victoria’s Dignified and Respectful Decisions initiative offers a lifeline, providing free resources that empower carers with the tools and knowledge they need to honour their loved ones’ wishes while also taking care of their own wellbeing.
What palliative care services are available? Spotlight on DARD
Palliative Care Victoria’s groundbreaking “Dignified and Respectful Decisions (DARD)” initiative provides free, invaluable resources to help carers navigate complex care decisions on behalf of loved ones who can no longer make decisions for themselves. Funded by the Commonwealth Department of Health and Ageing and the Victorian Government Department of Health, the free resources inform and support families and substitute decision makers.
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Carers can also gain clarity around the various care plans available, understand how to work with aged cared teams and access wellbeing support articles. There’s also a glossary which includes medical terminology, helpful definitions about advance care planning and directives, end-of-life care terms and other relevant information. These free resources also provide support for carers in their own lives, with detailed self-care and wellbeing strategies to ensure they can continue caring while looking after themselves both now and in the future.
Practical advice on carers self-care
Self-care for carers might seem contradictory, but DARD aims to transform the carer’s experience. The initiative’s free resources are designed to help carers anticipate future challenges and implement effective strategies to support them through this often-challenging journey.
One supportive hint involves building a network of trusted family members or close friends who can assist with some of the caregiving tasks. There are also smart strategies available to help think through various immediate and long-term decisions that need to be made.
Another beneficial tactic that DARD sets out, is to set aside some time each week for activities that feed your soul. This could be as simple as meeting a friend for a movie or going for a walk in your favourite park. Importantly, there are resources to help point carers in the right direction should they feel overwhelmed or just need to discuss their situation.
Collaborative decision making
Carers often find themselves in situations where the values and preferences of their loved ones need to be honoured in the face of complex medical information and choices. It’s in this instance that respectful and considered collaborative decision-making with healthcare professionals is crucial.
DARD’s free resources provide a framework for these essential conversations, ensuring that carers are well-prepared to engage with healthcare teams effectively and respectfully. By leveraging these resources, carers can feel more confident in their discussions with doctors, nurses and other healthcare providers.
They’re empowered to ask pertinent questions, understand the implications of various care options and advocate for the best interests of their loved one. This collaborative approach allows for dignified and respectful decisions, while it helps to lighten the emotional burden carers, as medical decision makers, so often carry.
More help and support for carers of older Australians
For more information on how Dignified & Respectful Decisions (DARD) can help you or someone you know, visit www.dard.org.au.
Palliative Care Victoria (PCV) is the Victorian peak body for palliative care and end of life care. Our Vision is that all people with a life limiting illness and their families are supported to live, die and grieve well.