By Sherry Little, Executive Director – Home Hospice of Grayson, Cooke and Fannin Counties
Frightening claims keep circulating regarding end-of-life care. At best, most of this talk is misleading. Let’s dispel some of the misunderstandings because hospice care is dedicated to life and to living every moment in the fullest way possible. While hospice begins when cure is no longer expected, it does nothing to hasten death.
A study published in the Journal of Pain and Symptom Management reports that hospice care may actually prolong the lives of some terminally ill patients. Plus patients who are already in a weakened condition avoid the risks of over-treatment and side effects when they choose hospice care.
Patients receive improved monitoring and treatment of their symptoms and pain through in-home care that does not require them to travel. And hospice focuses on all aspects of a person’s well-being, including spiritual and emotional, which typically reduces the stress associated with illness. Hospice professionals provide support, guidance and education to family caregivers, so patients feel they are less of a burden and enjoy an increased desire to continue to live.
Several involved in the discussion of healthcare reform have used phrases like “sent home to die,” “just take a pain pill,” “just give up,” etc. You will not hear these kinds of statements at Home Hospice. Our goal is to journey with our patients in a manner that provides true comfort, and opens the door increasing opportunities to enjoy life and experience the love of family and friends and find joy and peace, without the addition of any financial burden.
Some equate end-of-life care with losing choices. Hospice care is all about choices.
Whether to choose hospice care or not, which hospice is right for you and your family, what level of pain control is optimum for you, which services you need and how frequently, whether on any given day you feel like a bath or visit, and much more are all part of our care.
Our staff provides information and expertise to help you and your loved ones make informed choices throughout the course of our service. For more information or to discuss the possibility of hospice for yourself or someone you love, contact Home Hospice of Grayson, Cooke & Fannin Counties at www.homehospice.org
