Experienced hospice staff can assure that patients retain their dignity even as the disease progresses. Family and friends will receive practical support and education with regard to your personal care, nutrition, breathing, pain management, hygiene and the symptoms of your illness. They will also be supported emotionally and spiritually, both during and after your illness. Volunteers moments for themselves and time to keep up with the tasks of normal living. The hospice team also can identify additional community resources, which may be of help during this time.
Hospice relies on teamwork.
The patient and family are the center of the team, surrounded by professionals and volunteers with years of experience in caring for terminally ill patients. At first, it may seem frightening to care for a loved one at home. Remember, family members will not be alone, but a part of a team. Hospice also can help the family develop a plan for sharing the workload, thus easing the burden on any single-individual. Everyone responds differently to illness and loss.