I know in my life it’s often hard to speak with loved ones about death and dying until we almost miss the conversation. It seems we fee we are walking on broken glass. Talking Hospice Care can be the same. I remember my parents talking to me when they decided they wished to be cremated. I was horrified. They had obviously given it a lot of thought and were forthcoming in their decision. Is it the same when talking hospice care? How does one help a relative or loved one that is possibly needing hospice care in the near future, without knowing what to say – Talking Hospice Care?
What I Found
I searched for some suggestions that seem somewhat universal but then I think it is always dependent on the individual’s situation. There are so many scenarios. Some patients need hospice for a short time (maybe palliative care) and others may need end of life care. Each situation is unique and it is not for anyone to lump them together. We need to recognize that it can be a very stressful and emotional time for all concerned. It can often be more stressful on the family members than on the patient. We fear watching our loved ones suffer. Knowledge often helps alleviate fear. What follows is what I discovered that some who deal with it often have to say.
Educate Yourself About Hospice Care
Be sure you have done your homework so that you understand more and are not sharing from a fearful or terribly emotional state. What is it? How does it work? These are questions you will want to visit. You can ask healthcare workers, or read articles and books. Another idea is to attend local support groups that can help tell you more as they may have experienced it first hand. You can attend as you would attend Al Anon to help when you have an alcoholic in the family. Share your story and ask questions of others going through similar situations. They will share their stories and you will possibly feel less alone while going through this with your loved one. Stories are very powerful and can help you discover new views or options even in dealing with your own situation relative to hospice care.
National Assoc of Home Care and Hospice
Be Honest When Talking Hospice Care
Talking Hospice Care with your loved one may mean discussing their situation and the options that are available to them. Some of this information may come from the doctors also. Explain to them the positives lie how hospice can provide comfort and support during their final days or weeks or months. No one knows. At this point many are ready for the change, the relaxed treatment as opposed to the pokes and prods of normal treatment programs.
Listen to Their Concerns When Talking Hospice Care
This is so important to them. No one listens much to the patients anymore. Its hard sometimes to get them to share because of all they have been through. let them voice their concerns, fears, and objections when Talking Hospice Care. Answer their questions as objectively as you can. If you don’t know the answer, tell them you will see if you can find an answer to their particular situation. Do not force any decision on them unless they are unable to make their own decisions. Even though you love them, no one really knows what things go through someone’s mind at these times. Be patient.
Get Support For Yourself
It’s often the last thing we think of during these times because many of us are good at taking care of others at the expense of our own sanity. As mentioned before, support groups can help. Trusting enough to leave your loved one in the hospice care workers care, and do something you enjoy to alleviate your own stresses. It’s hard to support someone else when we don’t fill our own needs. Also maybe you have someone you can share your fears and other feelings with, an objective friend who likes to listen. Talking things out is definitely better than keeping them bottled up.
In Conclusion of Talking Hospice Care
There are no hard and fast rules for any healthcare decisions these days, but some are easier than others. This situation often makes us feel like we are facing death head-on and its not so pleasant for them or you. Best to be informed so we can help our loved ones.
Transition Care Telemetry has hospice care available in your loved one’s home. They can also help you delve into the topic from their experiences and knowledge.