This page talks about end of life care. It can be helpful to think about this possibility in advance. But it can also be upsetting. This information is here for you when you feel ready.
Many people can live with liver damage or even get better. But if the damage becomes very severe, then their liver can no longer work properly. Sadly not everyone can have a liver transplant and there are not always enough donor livers for those who need one.
It can be difficult to talk or even think about this possibility. But people often find that planning ahead can give them some peace of mind. Talking to your loved one in advance can help to make sure that you know their wishes and preferences.
The information on this page is for:
- Family, friends, and carers of an adult with liver disease
You can find information about caring for a child with liver disease here.
On this page:
Palliative care
Palliative care teams can help to improve your loved one’s quality of life. They can help your loved one to cope with symptoms, pain, and the emotional impact of their situation. They can also support you and your family.
Palliative care is not just for the end of life. It helps manage symptoms of a condition, for example treating ascites. Many people who are waiting for a transplant will also receive palliative care.
Finances
Some benefits can be claimed more quickly if your loved one has been told they may have less than 12 months to live.
End of life and bereavement support services
Anticipatory grief
Greif does not only come when you have lost someone. Looking after someone who is very unwell can bring many changes to your life. It can change the person you are caring for. This process will be different for everyone and you will probably have good days and bad days. But there is help and advice available to you.
Read our anticipatory grief blog
The Anne Robson Trust provides free support for people facing the end of their life and those close to them.
Cruse – anticipatory grief page
When a loved one dies
The Marie Curie website has lots of information about both the emotional and practical sides of losing a loved one.
Cruse Bereavement Support offers support and information, including some PDFs in other languages
The Loss Foundation specialise solely in supporting those who have lost a loved one to cancer
Good life good death good grief offers support in Scotland for before and after a death
Support
How Liver UK can help
A diagnosis of liver disease can be worrying, and you may have a lot of questions.
We're here for you and for your family and friends. Whether you have questions or just need someone to listen, we can help.
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This content was last reviewed: January 2024
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We would like to thank all the families, friends and carers who helped with creating and reviewing this page.
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