The Future of Palliative Care in an Ageing Society
10th November 2025
On 21 October the Cicely Saunders Institute welcomed Professor Lieve Van den Block to deliver this year’s CS International Annual Lecture on the future of palliative care.
Professor Van den Block explored how a palliative care approach for older people living with frailty, dementia, and cancer can be integrated across disciplines and different care sectors. She highlighted that timely referral to palliative care is key to improving the experience and quality of care.
Palliative care’s central question “What matters most?” reveals that meaningful activities, independence, mobility, respect, dignity, social connection, and continuity of care, all play a vital role — alongside meeting people’s financial, emotional, and spiritual needs.
Professor Van den Block called for wide-reaching cultural and organisational change to achieve this vision. She also highlighted innovative developments around the world, including the growth of “navigator” roles in different cultural settings. Navigators work closely with patients and families, building trust and understanding, and provide connection, advocacy, and support. Through training and mentorship, they help to promote empowerment and enhance quality of life for those receiving care. This integrative model of palliative care can transform healthcare systems in a sustainable way, including in low- and middle-income countries.
The lecture is available to watch on the Cicely Saunders Institute YouTube channel Cicely Saunders International Annual Lecture 2025 – YouTube