What is the main goal of end-of-life care?

The primary aim of end-of-life care is to optimize comfort and quality of life for patients who are facing terminal illnesses. This type of care focuses on relieving symptoms, managing pain, and providing psychological and emotional support to patients and their families during their final stages of life. The focus shifts from curative treatment to palliative care, which emphasizes enhancing the patient's remaining life rather than extending it through potentially invasive or aggressive medical interventions.

By prioritizing comfort and the overall well-being of the patient, end-of-life care acknowledges the importance of dignity and peace in the final days. This approach allows patients to experience their last moments with greater relief from distressing symptoms and to engage in meaningful interactions with loved ones. It underscores the holistic model of care, addressing not just physical needs but also emotional, social, and spiritual aspects of the patient's experience.

In contrast, approaches like aggressive treatment options or maintaining hospital admission do not align with the fundamental goals of end-of-life care, which focus on quality of life rather than prolonging life through intensive medical interventions. Preventing cancer spread may also not be relevant at this stage, as the focus is on comfort rather than curative measures.