Those unfamiliar with hospice often have many misconceptions about what hospice is. It’s often associated with a loss of hope and a bleak outcome. But, at its core, hospice care is a multidisciplinary approach to care that combines medical care with peace and empowerment. It is a patient and family-centered approach that goes beyond addressing the physical needs and provides spiritual and emotional support for both patients and their families. Specially trained care teams help families make the most of their time together and gain closure during a difficult time. At the heart of hospice, patients receive compassionate care with dignity.
Personalized Care
Hospice care teams are comprised of doctors, nurses, home health aides, social workers, spiritual counselors, chaplains, and trained volunteers who collaboratively work together to address all of the needs of a patient in all aspects of care. From pain and symptom management, to respite care, companionship, and counseling patients and their families receive personalized care throughout their entire hospice journey.
Medical Care with Dignity
Hospice care gives patients the chance to navigate their final stages of life with dignity. It allows patients to spend their final days in a place that is calm and quiet without the loud machines, medical personnel coming and going all hours of the day, and the sometimes invasive procedures. Compassionate and skilled hospice nurses are specially trained to provide comfort and care for patients during the most vulnerable moments of their journey. Rather than focusing on curative measures, hospice nurses help terminally ill patients spend their last days as comfortably and independently as possible.
Honoring the Patient
As terminally ill patients transition into end of life care they may feel a loss of control. Hospice care can help give control back to the patient and their family. Hospice care respects the patient’s wishes and empowers patients to choose how they want to spend their lives during the final days. The hospice care time will help educate patients and their families on their condition and what options are available to them, allowing them to make thoughtful and informed decisions about their care. Death is never easy, but giving patients the freedom to choose how they live the rest of their life, can help bring peace and acceptance during these difficult times.
Comfort and Support
Patients and families can make the most out of their remaining time together with the help of hospice care. Understandably, patients and families may feel overwhelmed with decisions and emotions. Social workers can provide guidance during this challenging time by assessing the situation, providing counseling, and educating them on the resources available to them. With hospice care, patients and their families are never alone. During a time of questioning and unfamiliarity, spiritual counselors can help patients and families work through their emotions and gain a level of closure. And, support doesn’t end when the patient passes away; bereavement support is available for family and loved ones to help them through their grieving process.
At Assisted, we understand that no two patients are alike, and every patient’s journey is unique and personal. To learn how our hospice care teams can provide individualized and compassionate support for you and your loved one, visit www.AssistedCares.com or call us 805-949-6555.
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