Adult
A Comprehensive Approach
Adult hospice services are typically offered by a physician who has determined that the client has an incurable disease or that aggressive treatment options are no longer curative. The client and family may choose to pursue the hospice option instead of aggressive treatment at any time after a terminal diagnosis has been determined.
Hospice care addresses symptoms associated with a client’s terminal illness, focusing on comfort instead of seeking a cure or treating the disease. The interdisciplinary team develops a plan of care to address areas in need of support; disease education, pain management, caregiver support, financial resources and spiritual care. The client and family are asked to participate in the development so that the plan is individualized to meet their expectations and outcomes.
Relief of Symptoms
Symptoms that are controlled with medication or holistic approaches may include:
- Pain
- Difficulty sleeping
- Fatigue
- Loss of appetite
- Nausea/vomiting
- Constipation
- Shortness of breath
Education
The RN Case Manager and interdisciplinary team are prepared to educate families and caregivers related to the care, treatment and disease process of each client. The needs are unique and can cause unnecessary stress. The team explains symptoms and potential interventions to address concerns and improve comfort and quality of life. They will guide the family as they learn to care for the clients’ needs as it relates to the dying process.
Emotional Support
The client and family experience a myriad of emotions when dealing with a terminal illness. Anxiety, depression, anger, guilt and fear are typical and appropriate responses to the circumstances. The hospice team is prepared to offer encouragement and support, as well as make referrals for counseling, organize family meetings, recommend support groups, etc.
Resources
Terminal illness can create financial stress and complications with employment, transportation, and meeting the overall needs of those involved. The care team can identify community resources, answer questions and offer practical suggestions. The team is available to assist with Power of Attorney and Advanced Directive documents, as well as funeral arrangements.
Spiritual Care
Terminal illness can create financial stress and complications with employment, transportation, and meeting the overall needs Spiritual practices can offer comfort to many families dealing with questions and matters of faith. The spiritual coordinator provides the component of spiritual support, prayer, faith, hope and reassurance during the end of life process and through bereavement services.
Bereavement
Bereavement services are designed to support the system affected by the clients’ death, including but not limited to family, friends, co-workers, neighbors etc. The emotional process of grief can be overwhelming and difficult to navigate, but with the support of bereavement team it is not something that you have to do alone. Each of us grieve differently, therefore a plan is created to encourage healing and offer support. Services are offered one on one, in a support group setting, via mail and phone.
