Rather than symbolizing a loss of hope, the aim of hospice is to restore hope - hope that Life will be rich in living and fulfillment. Many individuals, diagnosed with a life threatening illness, face many difficult emotional and physical issues while pursuing aggressive therapy and curative treatment. Supportive Care provides a foundation for the sharing of needs and goals to achieve desired results Individuals and their families are accepted into the Supportive Care Program by a Registered Hospice Nurse Medical Social Work services are provided Patient and family collaborate in the Care Plan Trained volunteers are placed as needed Pastoral Support is available Individuals are continually evaluated as to their appropriateness for the Supportive Care Program Supportive Care addresses the complex needs and personal requirements of individuals who struggle through the physical and emotional transition of aggressive treatment and the uncertainties of a life threatening illness. Supportive care consists of a wide range of approaches to relieve pain and control the symptoms of curative treatment Initial funding for the Supportive Care Program was provided by the Daphne Seybolt Culpeper Memorial Foundation Caring, trained, experienced professional staff and volunteers offer support, friendship, and respite to individuals, and their families while they live with their illness. Services continue for fourteen months after the death of the patient, on an individual basis and in small groups.
Sessions are educational, supportive and preventive in nature.
Sessions combine learning with a supportive atmosphere for bereaved persons to share their experiences. Bereavement support is designed to help bereaved persons better understand the thoughts and feelings that accompany the death of a loved one. Bereavement counseling is a crucial element in hospice services. The spiritual and emotional guidance inherent in hospice philosophy is part of what makes Hospice unique in the health care system. Bereavement services are available to all area residents, whether or not they have been served by Hospice.