Guidelines for a Palliative Approach in Residential Aged Care

Guideline:
Complementary Therapies
44. Generally, those who are unable to tolerate or who refuse pain
medications as part of a palliative approach may benefit from
appropriate complementary therapies. These therapies may also fit
better with culturally specific preferences and enhance resident’s
sense of control.
45. The combination of traditional analgesic treatments with
acupuncture, TENS, relaxation and imagery, and hypnosis may
be helpful for symptom management because they may reduce
intractable pain, thereby improving quality of life.
46. The use of acupuncture, acupressure, and muscle relaxation
with rebreathing training or rebreathing training combined with
coping strategies may reduce dyspnoea and improve function
(e.g. walking ability).
47. The use of aromatherapy massage for residents with advanced
dementia may reduce the incidence of disturbed behaviour, the
level of anxiety and improve quality of life.
48. A massage with essential oils is beneficial for reducing levels
of anxiety and improving quality of life for people receiving a
palliative approach.
49. The use of Ginkgo for older persons with mild to moderate
dementia or age-associated memory impairment is not
recommended because it was found to have no beneficial effects.
Ref No.
Evidence level
246 II
246 II
246 II
247
249
248
247
250
II
II
III-1
II
III-1
258 II
Guidelines for a Palliative Approach in Residential Aged Care 115