If you asked people who are within the last 6 months of their lives precisely what is most important to them, you are very likely to hear replies such as:
- Retaining control over which services will be provided
- To be pain free
- To receive spiritual and emotional support
- To remain at home
In-home hospice care meets all of these needs and more, especially when paired with non-medical home care services, like those offered by Anthem Home Care. Together, home care and hospice providers can ensure physical, spiritual, emotional, and practical needs are all addressed, in accordance with the care recipient’s final wishes.
Home Care and Hospice Meet Physical Needs
Towards the end of an individual’s life, fatigue, pain, digestive issues, difficulty with breathing, skin irritation, seizures, as well as other physical issues might occur. It’s essential to know how to read the individual’s nonverbal cues and take the appropriate steps to help relieve symptoms. A hospice nurse will supply medical relief, while a home care provider will:
- Help the person practice relaxation techniques such as soft music, aromatherapy, reading aloud in a comforting voice, etc.
- Offer engaging distractions, such as playing a game or cards together, working on an art project, or looking through photo albums
- Provide companionship so that the person knows she or he is not alone
In addition, the care team will pay close attention to the individual’s skin. Pressure sores and dry skin are common, and can be alleviated through regular repositioning, using lip balm to soothe dry lips and ice chips whenever the inside of the mouth is dry, and ensuring skin stays clean and moisturized.
Home Care and Hospice Meet Spiritual/Emotional Needs
Being available to listen to whatever the person would like to discuss or say can be an enormous relief. A caregiver is there for as much or as little time as needed to enable the person to talk about any feelings and thoughts nonjudgmentally. Our caregivers understand the importance of never correcting or disagreeing with the person, or attempting to change his or her feelings or thoughts in any way. The hospice provider and in-home caregiver will also respect and honor the person’s spiritual beliefs and needs, and help provide whatever brings that individual comfort.
Home Care and Hospice Meet Practical Needs
Reducing the responsibility of simple, everyday tasks is an important service for family members. It frees up valuable time for them to spend with the person receiving hospice care. Based on the family’s wishes, our care team can help with:
- Laundry and housekeeping services
- Preparing meals
- Running errands
- Personal hygiene care, such as bathing/showering or bed baths, oral and hair care, incontinence care, and so much more
If someone you love is receiving hospice or palliative care, contact Anthem Home Care at 361-643-2323 for a free in-home consultation. We’re here to answer questions any time, and also to share more information on how our award-winning home care assistance in Portland and nearby areas can enrich quality of life for both the person in need of care, and for you, too.