Thank you to Hospice Care Providers
November 25, 2015
“Too often we underestimate the power of a touch, a smile, a kind word, a listening ear, a kind compliment, or the smallest act of caring, all of which have the potential to turn a life around.” -Leo Buscaglia
Hospice care is considered to be the model for quality, compassionate care for people facing a life-limiting illness or injury. Hospice care involves a team-oriented approach to expert medical care, pain management, and emotional and spiritual support expressly tailored to the patient’s needs and wishes. Support is provided to the patient’s loved ones as well.
At the center of hospice and palliative care is the belief that each of us has the right to die pain-free and with dignity, and that our families will receive the necessary support to allow us to do so.
Hospice focuses on caring, not curing and in most cases care is provided in the patient’s home. Hospice care also is provided in freestanding hospice centers, hospitals, and nursing homes and other long-term care facilities. Hospice services are available to patients of any age, religion, race, or illness. Hospice care is covered under Medicare, Medicaid, most private insurance plans, HMOs, and other managed care organizations (Source: National Hospice and Palliative Care Organization).
Like the quote from Buscaglia said, “we cannot underestimate how much of an impact little acts of caring can make in a person’s life”. Some of our hospice partners shared what they believe are the best benefits of hospice care:
Nola with CentraCare Health Home Care and Hospice
“Hospice care provides better pain and symptom management. It helps them feel better and enjoy life. It provides extra support to the family. Hospice care also provides quality of life and comfort care.”
Nola’s advice to someone considering hospice care:
“Be open to the conversation before you make a decision. Hospice is for all ages – infants to elderly. People do ‘graduate’ or come off of hospice because their situation has improved.”
Carla with Heartland Hospice
“Hospice care provides support to the caregiver and the family. This support includes helping them walk through all the stages – it helps the client work through their fears.”
Carla’s advice to someone considering hospice care:
“Interview and meet with agencies. Find out what is provided and what’s not provided.”
Natalie with St. Croix Hospice
“The care is about the patient AND the family. You get a team of people supporting you and walking alongside you.”
Natalie’s advice to someone considering hospice care:
“Ask questions, find out more. Think of it in terms of comfort care, or a little more TLC.”
Another resource available in our area is Quiet Oaks Hospice House. As we bring awareness to Hospice/Palliative Care & Family Caregivers this month, if you or someone close to you is considering hospice care, contact us at AriseCares.com or call toll free at 855-274-7344.