Hospice Care is About Life

Article Submitted by Andrea Davidson, Marketing Coordinator, Hospice and Palliative Care of Northern Colorado, Inc. They can be reached at 970-352-8487.

Facing a terminal illness is the hardest thing many families will do, but there is help available, from a caring and unique team of healthcare professionals. Hospice care is there for patients who are no longer pursuing a cure for their illness. There is more life to be lived, and hospice helps patients and families on life's journey.

Hospice care uses an interdisciplinary approach, addressing physical, emotional and spiritual needs. Visiting patients in their homes or nursing facilities, hospice nurses treat symptoms, making sure the patient is as comfortable as possible. Counselors guide patients and their families through healthcare options, working with health insurance, Medicare and Medicaid. Care is also available to those unable to pay for services. Chaplains and volunteers visit patients, who may need a helping hand, or just someone to talk to.

Many patients wish to stay at home, where they are most comfortable, throughout their illness. While at home, help is just a phone call away. Hospice nurses are on call for home visits 24-hours a day. If the patient is unable to stay at home, some hospices offer inpatient care as well, with round the clock nursing staff. Bereavement services are also available to a patient's loved ones.

Hospice is often described as a helping hand, supporting patients and their families, as they decide what path they take in life. The goal of hospice care is enhancing quality of life. From arranging a special fishing trip with a loved one, to helping a patient connect with a long lost relative, hospice seeks to fulfill the patient's wishes. There is life left to live, and hospice can help.