Sanjeeta was already receiving Support at Home services when she found out she had late-stage pancreatic cancer.
Diagnosed with 2-3 months to live, her first thought was that she wanted to remain living at home, surrounded by photos of her family and friends, her plants and mementoes of her travels over the years.
Sanjeeta’s medical team met and agreed that she was suitable for in-home palliative care services by her local community palliative care service. Her daughter Ava (Sanjeeta’s registered supporter) also contacted her Support at Home care partner Rajesh to discuss the diagnosis.
Rajesh suggested the End-of-Life Pathway, explaining it would allow Sanjeeta to receive increased in-home support over a 12-week period. Ava discussed this option with Sanjeeta, and she agreed.
Sanjeeta’s GP completed the End-of-Life Pathway form, then Rajesh requested a high-priority Support Plan Review. An aged care assessor assessed her application and approved Sanjeeta for the End-of-Life Pathway. Her Notice of Decision advised that she had access to the End-of-Life Pathway over 12 weeks. Her previous approval to fund assistive technology and products could still be used to access any required equipment.
As Sanjeeta received services, including nursing care, personal care, nutrition, and respite, Rajesh continued to provide care management. Rajesh liaised with the state-based palliative care nursing services and provided Ava with Hindi resources from Palliative Care Australia to share with Sanjeeta.
To keep Sanjeeta comfortable and reduce the risk of pressure injuries, Rajesh organised for an occupational therapist to recommend an electric bed and pressure care mattress for Sanjeeta using her approval for assistive products and equipment. A wheelchair was also provided so that Ava could take Sanjeeta out from time to time. Ava would visit, water the plants, update the photos in her mother’s room, and share family gossip.
Everyone involved in Sanjeeta’s care continued to liaise, coordinate and provide quality in-home aged care services, keeping her safe, secure and comfortable.
Nine weeks after beginning the End-of-Life Pathway, Sanjeeta passed away at home, with Ava at her side.
Services featured in Sanjeeta’s story
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