A Hospice Journey Can Be the Beginning of New Discoveries and Support

It’s hard thinking about a hospice journey.

Preparing for a loved one’s passing is never easy. And providing comfort and care in the interim also comes with many tasks, not the least of which is having important – and often challenging – conversations regarding finances and other arrangements. These talks are particularly critical when caring for seniors who are experiencing a memory decline.

Here are three other key things to remember when considering hospice care:

• Be informed: The mere idea of hospice can be overwhelming. Don’t go it alone. Part of hospice is counseling and education. Take advantage of these services. Talk to a professional in the field that can answer your questions with patience and compassion. Far too many people equate hospice with “throwing in the towel.” This, however, is a big misconception. While hospice is an important step in accepting a loved one’s ultimate passing, its primary purpose is to provide comfort and advocacy for your aging family member. And while hospice serves as a culmination of a lifetime of support, it can also be the beginning of discovery, appreciation, and the next level of love.
• Take time for yourself: It is OK to feel sad, angry, or a complex blend of emotions during a hospice journey. As a co-caregiver, it is important to find a quiet place where you can pause and reflect or just simply relax. By taking time to prepare, cope, and comfort yourself, you will garner the strength to approach this part of life with courage and an open heart.
• Make the most of every day: Time is precious. So are memories – and legacy. Talk to your loved ones while they are here. Learn what you can about things you never knew, always wanted to know, or never dreamed you would ask about. By doing so, we ensure that our loved ones, even when they are no longer here, are never, ever gone.

The Kenwood Care team provides comprehensive care throughout hospice. We regularly help families navigate this emotional and complex time, assisting with paperwork, resources, and more. Most importantly, we work with support system AccentCare to ensure your loved one can remain at our facility while receiving hospice care. Our caregivers will tailor care to provide for your loved one’s changing needs.

Reach out to us today to learn more.