As more Americans find themselves facing terminal illness or caring for family members who are terminally ill, hospice care is drawing increased attention as a positive alternative to aggressive medical intervention in the later stages of terminal disease. Hospice programs have grown by an average of 17 percent over the past five years, according to the National Hospice Association. Hospice's specialized type of care is designed to address both of these fears. The goal of hospice is neither to hasten nor postpone death but to affirm life and recognize dying as a normal process. By providing essential pain-management services, emotional support and resources for caregivers and families, hospice professionals allow patients to spend their final days with dignity, often in the comfort of their own homes, surrounded by family and friends.
Hospice care involves interdisciplinary teams of professionals.
Composed of nurses, physicians, home health aides, social workers, clergy, counselors and other concerned individuals, these teams provide care in the homes of most patients and in nursing homes or assisted-living facilities. Hospice team members respect the privacy of our patients while providing quality care. A nurse with more than 50 years of experience, she provides patient care and family support. As part of a hospice team, she works closely with the patient's primary physician, caregiver and family members. Hospice programs may provide nutritional counseling, pastoral counseling and legal assistance to family members as well as time off for primary caregivers.