In the Know
Hospice Care: What to Expect
Facing the reality of a terminal illness can be an emotionally overwhelming experience for both patients and their loved ones. During such challenging times, hospice care offers support and compassion, providing specialized care tailored to meet the unique needs of individuals nearing the end of life. What can patients and their loved ones anticipate when they elect the hospice benefit?
Holistic Care Approach
Hospice care is rooted in a holistic approach that focuses on enhancing the quality of life for patients with terminal illnesses. A multidisciplinary team of healthcare professionals, including physicians, nurses, social workers, chaplains and volunteers, collaborates to address the physical, emotional, spiritual and practical needs of patients and their families.
Pain and Symptom Management
The hospice team prioritizes effective pain and symptom management to alleviate discomfort. The team will assess and manage symptoms such as pain, shortness of breath, nausea, fatigue and anxiety, using a combination of medications, therapies and supportive interventions.
Emotional and Spiritual Support
Hospice care recognizes the emotional and spiritual dimensions of end-of-life experiences, offering counseling, emotional support and spiritual care to patients and their families. Chaplains and social workers provide compassionate guidance, facilitate meaningful conversations and address existential concerns, helping individuals and their families find peace and acceptance.
Caregiver Education and Support
The hospice team offers comprehensive support and education to caregivers, empowering them to provide optimal care and support for their loved ones. Caregivers receive training on symptom management, medication administration, personal care techniques and strategies for coping with the challenges of caregiving.
Comfort and Dignity
Above all, hospice care aims to provide comfort, dignity and peace to patients as they approach the end of life. By honoring individual preferences, promoting open communication, and offering compassionate support, hospice teams strive to create a supportive and nurturing environment where patients can live their final days with dignity and grace.
Bereavement Care
Hospice bereavement services are offered to individuals and families who are coping with grief and loss following the death of a loved one who received hospice care. These services are provided for 13 months and aim to provide emotional support and education on grief.
We pledge to ALWAYS:
- respond with a sense of urgency
- advocate for patients and families
- work as ONE cohesive team
- celebrate life and achievements
- live a culture of YES
Common Myths About Hospice Care
Hospice care is often delayed unnecessarily due to misunderstanding or misinformation about benefits. Why would you choose less care when you may be eligible for more? In-home hospice can mean more time to focus on the people and activities that matter.
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