The palliative care needs of people with learning disabilities

This article examines many of the issues and difficulties associated with caring for people with learning disabilities who require palliative intervention. Providing palliative care for this client group is both complex and challenging for all those involved in the patient’s care. The Composite Model of palliative care is outlined and the needs of the person with a learning disability, those of the carer and the family are discussed. Finally, recommendations are made to help health professionals address the challenges posed by this client group and to assist them in providing more effective care for people with a learning disability who require palliative care.