In keeping with Jewish customs, our palliative care service offers a warm, empathetic and reassuring environment that allows patients to maintain their dignity in an atmosphere of traditional values. Wolper’s palliative care staff are specially trained to provide counselling and support for both patients and their family members.
Our focus is primarily on symptom management and enhancing quality of life. We also recognise the needs of family and friends, who are encouraged to take part in the care of their loved one.
Inpatient palliative care at Wolper is provided on the ground floor in private rooms with ensuite bathrooms. Four rooms feature outdoor patios.
A multidisciplinary team – including palliative care physicians, nurses, pharmacists, physiotherapists, occupational therapists, social workers, discharge planners, dietitians, speech pathologists, and counsellors – delivers symptom management, restorative care, and end-of-life support.
Spiritual and religious care is available for all faiths, and patients can request visits from their preferred religious representatives.
Patients are encouraged to bring personal items that provide comfort (such as music, art, or quilts), and approved pets are welcome.
Wolper Jewish Hospital participates in the Palliative Care Outcomes Collaboration (PCOC), which aims to improve the quality and outcomes of palliative care nationally.
Spirituality
Jewish law states that terminally ill people should remain active and productive members of society for as long as possible. Wolper provides patients with the opportunity to do this by celebrating all Jewish festivals and holidays, and providing places where patients can celebrate with family and friends while they are able.
Wolper welcomes everyone regardless of religion or creed. Rabbis from a number of different synagogues visit the Hospital regularly offering religious counsel, advice and assistance. Patients are able to request their own Rabbi or minister of any other religion visit them. Please speak to nursing staff about this.
Visitors
We encourage visits by family and friends as an important means of delivering reassurance and comfort. The presence of relatives and friends ensures that patients do not feel abandoned, and confirms the family’s love, devotion and commitment.
For our palliative care patients only, there is no limit on visiting hours and family members can stay overnight.
Pets dogs and assistance dogs are permitted to visit with prior permission from the nursing staff.
Bereavement Counselling
Wolper’s palliative care staff are specially trained to provide counselling and support during a family’s grieving process. Staff can also arrange assistance and support from professional bereavement counsellors for patients and their families if required.
