Deciding on palliative care for a loved one is one of the most emotional and significant choices a family can face. You want to ensure they are comfortable, supported, and surrounded by the care they deserve. But figuring out where that care should take place — at home or in a residential care facility — can feel overwhelming.
There is no "right" or "wrong" choice. Every family’s situation is unique, and what works best will depend on your loved one’s medical needs, personal preferences, and the level of support available at home. Some families find deep comfort in caring for their loved one in a familiar home setting, while others feel reassured knowing that professional, round-the-clock care is always on hand in a residential facility.
At MACG, we provide palliative care in residential aged care, but we know this may not be the right option for everyone. That’s why we’ve written this blog — not to sway your decision, but to help you explore both paths with clarity and confidence. Whether your loved one’s final chapter is spent at home or in a residential setting, what truly matters is that they receive the care, dignity, and comfort they need.
What is palliative care?
Palliative care is specialised support for people living with a life-limiting serious illness. Rather than focusing on curative treatment, palliative care prioritises comfort, dignity, and quality of life, ensuring individuals receive the physical, emotional, and practical support they need.
At its core, palliative care is about relieving pain and managing symptoms, whether at home or in a residential care setting. It also extends to emotional and psychological support for both the person receiving care and their loved ones. Every individual’s needs are different, which is why care plans are tailored to their specific condition and circumstances.
For instance, someone receiving cancer palliative care may require pain management and assistance with fatigue, while a person needing specialist palliative care for motor neurone disease might benefit from speech therapy and respiratory support. Those who require palliative care for dementia often need a combination of symptom relief, cognitive support, and guidance for families navigating the progression of the disease.
Palliative care includes a wide range of medical, personal, and emotional services, and may include:
- Pain and symptom management: Medication and therapies to ease discomfort.
- Emotional and psychological support: Counselling and wellbeing programs for patients and families.
- Practical assistance: Help with daily activities like mobility, eating, and personal care.
- Support for cultural and spiritual needs: Respecting individual beliefs and traditions in care planning.
No matter the condition, the goal of palliative care is the same: to provide relief, reassurance, and compassionate support, allowing individuals to live as comfortably as possible.
Palliative care at home
For many families, home is where their loved one feels safest and most comfortable. Choosing palliative care at home allows them to remain in a familiar environment, surrounded by the people and routines they know best. Understanding what to expect from palliative care at home can help families decide whether this is the right option for their loved one’s needs. While home care offers emotional and practical benefits, it also comes with challenges that require careful consideration.
Emotional and practical benefits
Staying at home can provide a sense of peace and familiarity, which can be incredibly comforting during palliative care. Many families find that home care allows for a more personal and flexible approach to daily routines while keeping their loved ones close.
- Familiar surroundings: Being in a known environment can mitigate anxiety and depression and create a greater sense of security.
- More family involvement: Loved ones can play an active role in daily care, providing companionship and emotional support.
- Personalised routines: Meals, sleep schedules, and activities can be adapted to suit individual preferences, making care feel more natural.
Challenges to be aware of
While home-based palliative care can be deeply meaningful, it also requires careful planning and commitment. Families must consider whether they have the time, resources, and professional support needed to ensure their loved one receives the best possible care.
- Care responsibilities: Family members may need to take on significant caregiving duties, which can be physically and emotionally demanding.
- Medical support limitations: While healthcare professionals can provide home visits, immediate medical attention may not always be available.
- Home modifications: Installing mobility aids, hospital beds, or other equipment may be necessary to provide a safe and comfortable environment.
Who might at-home palliative care services be best suited for?
Palliative care at home can be a suitable option for families who have the capacity to provide ongoing support or access external care services. It is often a preferred choice for individuals who value their home environment and have care needs that can be managed outside a facility.
- Families with strong support networks: Those who can provide consistent care or arrange professional home care services.
- Loved ones who prefer a familiar setting: Individuals who feel most at peace at home, surrounded by personal belongings and family members.
- People with manageable care needs: Those who do not require intensive medical supervision but still benefit from palliative support.
The benefits of at-home palliative care can be deeply rewarding for families who have the resources and support to manage it. However, it’s important to recognise the level of commitment involved and ensure that both the individual receiving care and their caregivers have the assistance they need. However, keep in mind that you can rely on a social worker for counselling, advocacy, and support in making informed care decisions.
Palliative care in a residential facility
For some families, a residential care facility provides the reassurance that their loved one will receive consistent, high-quality support from trained professionals. Palliative care in a facility offers access to specialist medical care, emotional support, and a structured environment, helping to ease the burden on family members while ensuring their loved one’s needs are met around the clock.
The benefits of professional residential care
Aged care facilities that offer palliative care are designed to provide a safe, supportive, and medically equipped environment for individuals with life-limiting conditions. Families can feel confident knowing their loved one is receiving continuous care in a setting tailored to their needs.
- 24/7 professional support: Nurses and carers are always available to manage symptoms, provide medication, and respond to medical needs as they arise.
- Companionship and emotional well-being: Social programs, activities, and emotional support help residents feel connected and engaged.
- Reduced caregiving pressure on family: The responsibility of providing hands-on care is shared with professionals, allowing families to focus on spending quality time together.
- Purpose-built facilities: Residential care homes are designed for safety and accessibility, removing the need for home modifications like ramps or hospital beds.
Considerations and challenges
While a residential care facility provides structured and professional support, transitioning into a new environment can take time. Families should consider how their loved one might adjust and whether this setting aligns with their personal preferences.
- Emotional adaptation: Moving into a care facility can be an adjustment, and some individuals may take time to settle into their new surroundings.
- Changes in daily interaction with family: While visits are always welcome, family members may have less involvement in the day-to-day aspects of care.
- Choosing the right facility: Not all aged care homes specialise in palliative care, so it’s important to find a facility that aligns with your loved one’s specific needs.
Who might find this the best fit?
Residential palliative care is often the best option for individuals with complex medical conditions or families who need consistent, round-the-clock support. It may also be suitable for those who thrive in a structured and socially engaging environment.
- People with intensive care needs: Those requiring frequent medical supervision, pain management, or specialist support.
- Families looking for professional, full-time care: When home care is no longer practical, a residential facility provides a stable and supportive alternative.
- Individuals who benefit from structured routines: Some people feel more comfortable in an organised environment with scheduled activities and regular medical oversight.
Aged care facilities that provide palliative care can offer peace of mind to families who want to ensure their loved one is receiving expert care in a safe and well-supported setting. While it may take some time to adjust, many families find comfort in knowing their loved one’s needs are met with dignity, compassion, and professionalism.
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Common fears and concerns (and how to address them)
When families come to us for guidance, they often share the same concerns and difficult questions about palliative care. Choosing between home care and a residential facility is a deeply personal decision, and it’s natural to worry about whether you’re making the right choice. Over the years, we’ve supported many families through this process, and we’ve heard their concerns firsthand. Below, we address some of the most common fears and provide reassurance to help you feel more confident in your decision.
“Will my loved one feel lonely in a facility?”
One of the biggest concerns about residential care is the fear of isolation. While it’s true that adjusting to a new environment takes time, aged care facilities are designed to foster connection and companionship.
- Residential homes place a strong focus on emotional well-being, ensuring that residents have access to social programs, group activities, and one-on-one engagement with carers.
- Many facilities encourage family visits and community involvement, helping loved ones maintain important relationships.
- Trained staff take the time to build meaningful connections with residents, ensuring they feel valued and supported.
“What if we choose home care, but it becomes too difficult?”
Caring for a loved one at home can be incredibly rewarding, but it can also be physically and emotionally demanding. Many families worry that they might not be able to continue providing care as their loved one’s needs evolve.
- It’s important to remember that palliative care decisions are not permanent — many families start with home care and transition to a residential facility when more support is needed.
- There are respite care services available to provide temporary relief for family caregivers, allowing them to rest while their loved one receives professional support.
- Choosing home care doesn’t mean you have to do it alone — nursing visits, personal carers, and palliative care specialists can all play a role in supporting your loved one at home.
“Will I feel guilty if I choose a residential facility?”
It’s completely normal to feel a sense of guilt when considering residential care, especially if you have been caring for your loved one at home. However, moving to a facility does not mean you are letting them down — it means ensuring they receive expert, 24/7 care in a safe and supportive environment.
- Residential palliative care allows families to focus on quality time rather than full-time caregiving responsibilities.
- Professional staff are trained to provide specialist medical and emotional care, ensuring your loved one receives the best possible support.
- Many families find that once their loved one is in a dedicated palliative care environment, they feel reassured knowing that their needs are met with dignity and respect.
“Is residential care too clinical?”
Some people associate aged care facilities with hospitals, worrying that the environment may feel sterile or impersonal. However, modern residential palliative care settings are designed to be warm, welcoming, and homelike.
- Many facilities focus on personalised care, allowing residents to bring personal items, decorate their rooms, and follow familiar routines.
- Instead of a clinical setting, aged care homes prioritise a comfortable atmosphere with lounges, gardens, and communal spaces for relaxation and socialisation.
- The goal is to create a peaceful, home-like environment while ensuring access to high-quality medical and personal care when needed.
No matter which option you choose, what matters most is that your loved one feels safe, supported, and cared for. By understanding these common concerns and the solutions available, you can make the best choice with confidence and peace of mind.
How to decide what’s best for your loved one
Making the right choice starts with honest conversations. We’ve put together some key questions to help you and your loved one think through their care needs, personal preferences, and what’s practical for your family. Take the time to reflect on these together so that you can begin to create a clear advance care plan that you can rely on in the long run.
Key questions to ask
- What level of medical care does my loved one need?
- Can we realistically meet their care needs at home?
- Would they feel most at peace at home or in a residential setting?
- Do we have the physical and emotional capacity to provide ongoing care?
- How will we manage the financial costs of care — at home or in a facility?
- Will home modifications be needed to make caregiving easier?
- How accessible is emergency medical support if it’s needed?
- Does my loved one prefer familiarity and independence, or structured support and social interaction?
These questions don’t have easy answers, and it’s okay to take time to decide. What matters most is finding a solution that provides comfort, dignity, and the right level of support for your loved one and your family.
