Sundre Palliative Care Association
May we walk this journey with you...
Sundre Palliative Care Association – Community Survey
Short summary of results
In the spring of 2022, Sundre Palliative Care Association developed a community survey to gather information about best ways to support individuals and families in Sundre and area who are going through life-limiting illnesses, palliative care, death and grief.
The survey was available online and in a paper format from March 21 to April 30. During that time we received 125 responses from community members. We were very happy to receive so many responses, and it is important to note that many people included very detailed comments, thoughts and ideas. Many thanks to all who participated!
Our survey shows that many people share common concerns about the choices they have to make and the supports available to them. At the same time, the experiences for anyone facing life-limiting illness and the responsibilities of family and caregivers are different in every circumstance.
We want to use this space to share some of the thoughts and concerns most often identified in the responses we received to our survey. These points, and the more detailed comments shared in the survey will be very important to guide future activities and priorities for Sundre Palliative Care Association.
What we have learned...
Many thanks to all who participated in our survey. We welcome all your thoughts, ideas and comments to support our work.
Short summary of results
In the spring of 2022, Sundre Palliative Care Association developed a community survey to gather information about best ways to support individuals and families in Sundre and area who are going through life-limiting illnesses, palliative care, death and grief.
The survey was available online and in a paper format from March 21 to April 30. During that time we received 125 responses from community members. We were very happy to receive so many responses, and it is important to note that many people included very detailed comments, thoughts and ideas. Many thanks to all who participated!
Our survey shows that many people share common concerns about the choices they have to make and the supports available to them. At the same time, the experiences for anyone facing life-limiting illness and the responsibilities of family and caregivers are different in every circumstance.
We want to use this space to share some of the thoughts and concerns most often identified in the responses we received to our survey. These points, and the more detailed comments shared in the survey will be very important to guide future activities and priorities for Sundre Palliative Care Association.
What we have learned...
- Access to family, friends and visits from loved ones, are identified as the most important ways to assure quality of life at end-of-life. Knowledgeable and compassionate caregivers and access to medical care were also of great importance. In addition sunshine and nature, as well as familiar foods and access to pets would be high the list for many people responding.
- The ability to make choices is a very great concern. For many, being at home or in a family member’s home is a first choice for end-of-life if that is possible. If care needs are high, or home supports limited, many people responded that hospice and palliative care support would be the best option.
- There is very strong support in the survey responses for additional palliative or hospice care space in Sundre. This would allow people to stay in or near their community and in a space that is designed to provide end-of-life care and support from family and friends.
- Many people responding to the survey described the importance of supports available for caregivers. Time off or respite for family or friends who are caregivers is a high priority and could be very important to someone making choices about care at end-of-life. Necessary supports may include support in the home for personal care, bathing, dressing, mobility, meal preparation as well as advice and counseling support for family members including children.
- There are a number of health care, community and financial supports available but not everyone knows about these programs and services or how to access them. The responses to the survey identified the importance of finding the best ways to share this information. Survey responses also included many good ideas about how to get the word out to assist community members with planning and preparing to ensure their needs can be met.
Many thanks to all who participated in our survey. We welcome all your thoughts, ideas and comments to support our work.
Sundre Palliative Care Association is a registered charitable organization. (Reg # 506299189)
Our Mission:
To establish a coordinated system of Palliative Care between community, professionals and volunteers.
To serve as a resource and fund raiser for Palliative Care needs within Sundre and district.
To provide educational programs for professionals and community members.
To encourage, mentor and train Palliative Care Volunteers.
Regular monthly meetings - second Thursday of every month at 1400hr at
SSSL, 749 6 Street SW. , North entrance.
