Listings for health care services that specialize in end-of-life care for the terminally ill, either in their homes or at specialized medical facilities. Hospice services place a particular focus on patients' emotional well-being, and on the relief and prevention of suffering and pain.
In-home health and rehabilitation services, hospice care, and palliative care.
Q: My sisters and I are concerned about our mom. She’s been to the hospital twice this year already. She is 88 years old, and our dad died years ago. She hates the hospital and says she never wants to go back again. She tells us that she’s eating, but her pants are baggy and her face looks thinner. Every time I call to check on her, she seems to be asleep. My mother never napped a day in her life. She has a really bad heart and some days she is so short of breath, she can’t even speak more than a word or two. She takes a dozen meds and I know she’s getting them mixed up. My mom agreed for me to call and get some information.
Chief executive officer, VNA Home Health & Hospice
A: It sounds as though your mom is really failing. While there are many programs that would be able to support her to stay in her home, if her doctor believes she has less than six months to live, then she is likely eligible for hospice services. If your mother grants permission, we will contact her physician for more specific medical information and could then schedule a nurse or social worker to visit all of you in her home to discuss the specifics of hospice services and how she qualifies. The focus of the hospice program is on comfort and supporting patients, like your mom, and their families with regard to their physical, spiritual and emotional needs.
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