The urgency of the problem lies in the changing demographic landscape of Kazakhstan, which is experiencing an increase in its aging population. According to projections from the Ministry of Economy and Budget Planning of the Republic of Kazakhstan and the Institute of Economic Research of the Republic of Kazakhstan, the proportion of elderly individuals will rise to 14% of the total population by 2030. This demographic shift necessitates adjustments to the societal development model, as outlined in the Concept of Social Development of the Republic of Kazakhstan. With a growing elderly population, there is an increasing demand for palliative care and long-term support for elderly patients coping with severe chronic illnesses, cognitive impairments, and other conditions. The challenges surrounding the organization of palliative care are becoming more pronounced globally and particularly in Kazakhstan as societal development progresses. It is imperative not to leave seriously ill individuals and their families to navigate their conditions alone; they require access to high-quality medical care. Palliative care is relevant across various medical specialties, not just oncology, underscoring the importance for all healthcare professionals to be knowledgeable about its principles and capable of providing such care. The necessity for the advancement of palliative medicine in contemporary society stems from several factors. These include the rising life expectancy, which presents challenges in caring for the elderly; increasing incidences of cancer and HIV/AIDS; the emergence of other socially significant diseases resulting from urbanization; and the accelerating pace of life. Addressing these challenges requires a concerted effort to improve the quality of life for terminally ill patients, ensuring they can experience dignity and comfort in their final days.

Keywords: palliative care, elderly patients, healthcare, oncology, development prospects