3 Care Processes


A palliative approach can support quality of life for older people at the end-of-life. 'The Surprise Question' can help identify those needing a palliative approach and the 3 key processes help deliver the palliative approach.

Ask yourself:

'Would I be surprised if this person died in the next 6 to 12 months?'

If you would not be surprised if the person died, a palliative approach should be considered.

The SPICT Tool (494kb pdf) also supports recognition of those is used to identify those with deteriorating health who can be assessed for unmet palliative and supportive care needs.

Three Key Care Processes

Advance Care Planning

Case Conference

Terminal Care Planning



Page updated 04 December 2023



palliAGED is funded by the Australian Government Department of Health and Aged Care.