Background: International research has shown that healthcare professionals (HCPs) and nonhealthcare professionals (NHCPs) are unaware of the goals and purposes of palliative care. This study evaluates the knowledge of palliative care among a sample of Portuguese adults and correlates their level of knowledge with age, gender, profession, and experience of family member’s palliative care. Method: A cross-sectional online survey was carried out on a sample of 152 HCPs and 440 NHCPs who completed an anonymous questionnaire of sociodemographic, family, and professional data, and an instrument of 26 dichotomous (true or false) questions focusing on palliative care goals and purposes. Results: The 592 participants had a mean age of 31.3 ± 11.1 years, and most were female. Statistically significant differences between statements considered as correct by HCPs and NHCPs were found in 24 statements; HCPs had the highest percentage of correct answers. The terms most frequently associated with palliative care mentioned by NHCPs were chronic and progressive disease (n = 76), while HCPs mostly mentioned quality-of-life promotion (n = 29). Women, the elderly, and HCPs had a higher level of knowledge regarding palliative care (p < 0.001). Conclusions: Results clearly show gaps in knowledge of palliative care, especially among NHCPs. An integrated approach is needed to inform and clarify the philosophy and goals of palliative care in different settings in order to improve knowledge.

The COVID-19 pandemic has had a profound impact on institutionalized older adults, yet its effect on fall risk remains poorly understood. This study aimed to assess the prevalence of fall risk and to identify associated factors in this population following the pandemic. A comparative analysis across several institutions revealed a paradoxical increase in fall incidence despite improvements in functional status, particularly among individuals aged 80 years and older. No significant changes were observed in medication use, a well-established fall risk factor. However, there was a notable decrease in reported auditory deficits and a shift in self-perceived health status, with a greater proportion of participants rating their health positively post-pandemic. These results highlight the multifactorial nature of fall risk, emphasizing the importance of comprehensive prevention strategies that address physical, behavioral, and environmental determinants. This study contributes to understanding the complex interactions between the pandemic and fall risk among institutionalized elders and underscores the need for healthcare providers and policymakers to prioritise the wellbeing and safety of this vulnerable population during ongoing and future public health challenges.