Journal of Palliative Care & Medicine
Open Access

As the global population continues to age, there is a pressing need to address the care and support provided to individuals living with chronic viral hepatitis as they near the end-of-life phase. Chronic viral hepatitis, particularly hepatitis B and C, is a serious medical condition that affects the liver, leading to progressive damage over time. If left untreated or poorly managed, chronic viral hepatitis can progress to end-stage liver failure, posing significant challenges for patients and their healthcare providers [1]. As individuals with chronic viral hepatitis age, the management of their condition becomes more complex and demanding. Aging is often associated with a decline in overall health and a higher risk of developing comorbidities, which can further exacerbate the effects of chronic viral hepatitis. The confluence of age-related health issues and the progression of hepatitis necessitates a comprehensive approach to ensure that the needs of these individuals are adequately addressed, especially during the end-of-life phase [2]. End-of-life care for individuals with chronic viral hepatitis is particularly crucial due to the potential severity of their liver disease and the impact it may have on their overall well-being. Palliative care plays a significant role in this context, as it focuses on alleviating symptoms, managing pain, and providing emotional and psychological support. A palliative care approach helps improve the quality of life for these patients and ensures that their end-of-life needs are met with compassion and dignity [3]. In this scoping review, the primary objective is to explore the existing literature on the care and support provided to the ageing population living with chronic viral hepatitis. By examining published studies and research, the review aims to gain a comprehensive understanding of the challenges and gaps in care faced by these individuals as they near the end-of-life phase [4,5]. The review seeks to shed light on healthcare provider awareness of the specific needs of ageing individuals with chronic viral hepatitis. It will assess whether healthcare professionals are adequately trained to address the unique challenges presented by this population, and identify areas where further education and training are required. Furthermore, the scoping review will investigate the role of caregivers in supporting individuals with chronic viral hepatitis during their end-of-life phase. Caregivers play a crucial role in the lives of patients with chronic illnesses, but their well-being and needs are often overlooked. The review aims to identify the resources and support systems available to caregivers and assess whether additional assistance is necessary to enable them to provide the best possible care to their loved ones [6]. By consolidating and analyzing the existing literature, this scoping review seeks to contribute valuable insights to the field of end-of-life care for individuals with chronic viral hepatitis. The findings will be essential in developing comprehensive care models and guidelines tailored to meet the unique needs of this ageing population. Ultimately, the goal is to enhance the overall care and support provided to individuals with chronic viral hepatitis as they approach the end-oflife phase, ensuring that their final days are marked by comfort, dignity, and compassionate care. The scoping review identified a limited number of studies that specifically addressed the care and support provided to the ageing population with chronic viral hepatitis nearing the end-oflife. However, the existing literature highlights several crucial aspects:

Palliative care and symptom management: Palliative care plays a vital role in addressing the physical, psychological, and emotional needs of individuals with chronic viral hepatitis as they near end-of-life. Proper symptom management, pain control, and addressing emotional distress are essential components of palliative care in this context [7].

Quality of life: Studies emphasize the importance of maintaining the best possible quality of life for individuals with chronic viral hepatitis during their end-of-life phase [8]. This includes promoting independence, enhancing social support, and addressing psychosocial and spiritual aspects.

Healthcare provider awareness: The review identified a lack of awareness among healthcare providers regarding the specific needs of ageing individuals with chronic viral hepatitis [9]. This underscores the importance of proper education and training for healthcare professionals in providing adequate care and support.

Caregiver support: Caregivers play a crucial role in supporting individuals with chronic viral hepatitis near end-of-life. Studies highlighted the need for appropriate support and resources to help caregivers cope with the challenges they face [10].

Conclusion

The scoping review indicates that the care and support provided to the ageing population with chronic viral hepatitis as they near endof- life are areas that require more attention and research. Integrating palliative care principles, enhancing healthcare provider awareness, and providing adequate caregiver support are essential in improving the quality of life and end-of-life experience for individuals with chronic viral hepatitis. Further research and collaboration between healthcare professionals, policymakers, and support organizations are needed to develop comprehensive care models tailored to the unique needs of this population.

Acknowledgement

Not applicable.

Conflict of interest

Author declares no conflict of interest.

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