The summer months are perfect for backyard barbecues, trips to the beach, vacations, and other outdoor activities with family and friends. However, if you are caring for an older adult, you may sometimes feel your summertime plans need to be put on the back burner. You don’t have to sacrifice your fun in the sun.

No one looks forward to talking about end-of-life care — particularly with a cherished parent, relative, or friend. While it’s not easy, having this discussion—well in advance of a terminal diagnosis or health crisis—is crucial to planning for your senior’s future. The sooner you discuss their final requests, the more likely you can honor them.

“Palliative care” may seem like a medical term, however, non-medical methods are available to relieve pain, discomfort, stress, and other disease symptoms for health conditions. For example, Visiting Angels’ personalized, empathetic model focuses on improving comfort, well-being, and quality of life through a more holistic and comprehensive approach.