Integrative treatment approaches in palliative medicine

At the end of life the majority of patients and their relatives are looking for complementary treatment approaches. Special acceptance is seen in methods of communicative and patient-focussed medicine. Techniques unrelated to health sciences (e.g. sports, laughter therapy and art therapy) are important as well as classical therapies (e.g. speech therapy and occupational therapy). Basal stimulation and aroma therapy are also established components of modern palliative care. The integration of herbal therapy is explained using the example of treatment of inflammation of the oral mucosa. Finally, spiritual care is shown as an essential part of modern palliative medicine in order to support the patient and to protect the professional care giver. Research of literature and interview of patients as well as their relatives using a questionaire.