Being able to help patients and families during one of the most challenging times of their lives is an important opportunity for all of us in the hospice business to do so much more and that is to help people understand that they are surrounded by people who love and care about them no matter their circumstance may be. If one can help someone in such difficult times then there is nothing better than this.

Hospice may take place in the patient’s home, a nursing home or a hospital. For most, home is the usual setting, with a family member taking the job of primary caregiver. He or she may receive support from a hospice team and home health aides. At a nursing home or a hospital, the hospice staff also offers much support to the patient’s family.

How does hospice care help?

• Hospice is a Medicare benefit, so if someone qualify for it, it is free to them.
• Hospice works with the family as well as the patient alone.
• Patients have choices about how and where they want to spend the rest of their lives or the last moments.
• The goal of pain control and symptom management is to provide as high a level of comfort as possible, while still maintaining alertness of the patients condition.
• The goal of medical treatment is to achieve physical and emotional comfort so the patient and family can enjoy living life while being surrounded by their loved ones.
• Patients are encouraged to stay active and enjoy what they love tod do the most.
• When possible, the patient can be cared for in the home with loved ones and a familiar environment.
• Help from the hospice team is available 24 hours/7 days a week by phone.
• Members of the hospice team make frequent home visits to make sure everything is ok and under control. Some people also opt for Advanced Hospice Management

Who are the members of a hospice team?

Hospice staff is made up of several specially trained people who have experience working with patients and families with life-limiting illnesses. Hospice staff help the patient and family to be as comfortable as possible. The team consists of hospice doctors, nurses and social workers. Others may also be part of the team. Patients, families and friends are also considered important people on the treatment team, which respects cultural values and traditions.

I feel Hospice is a blessing for so many people out there as it allows people to spend their last few years peacefully, according to their own wish and in presence of their loved ones/family. All our lives, as humans we wish for peace, in and around us, so to have the same in our last moments is definitely a blessing.

I hope you found this to be an interesting read because I definitely did. Do let me know in the comments below if you would like to share any other information on hospice with me. Also, before you leave don’t forget to check out my latest post right here.