Symptomatic Management And Palliative Care In Neurodegenerative Disease

In the absence of effective disease-modifying drugs, the emphasis in all of the neurodegenerative diseases is on symptom management and maintenance of quality of life for the patient and carer. Palliative care enhances quality of life for patients and family members by addressing medical symptoms and individual psychological, social, and spiritual needs. Emphasis is placed on patient autonomy and dignity. Patients are encouraged to generate advance directives. Formal international guidelines for active palliative management of the common neurodegenerative diseases remain to be established.