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A Delicate Dance: Discussing Food and Comfort at the End
of Life
For referral partners transitioning patients to hospice
care, a common source of tension arises: the practice of regular solid food
feeding. Families, often driven by love and cultural norms, may struggle to
accept that forced feeding can be detrimental to their loved one’s comfort in
the final stages of life. This article equips medical professionals with
talking points to navigate these sensitive conversations, prioritizing the
patient’s well-being while acknowledging familial concerns.
The human body’s metabolic needs decrease significantly
near death [1]. The digestive system weakens, making food absorption difficult
and potentially uncomfortable. Studies have shown that artificial hydration and
nutrition don’t improve lifespan or patient outcomes [2]. In fact, they can
increase the risk of aspiration pneumonia, a serious lung infection caused by
inhaling fluids [3].
Focus on Comfort, Not Calories:
When discussing food with families, emphasize that the
goal is comfort, not sustenance. Offer mouth swabs dipped in cool water or
flavored ice chips to alleviate dryness. Small, soft food pieces the patient
enjoys might be acceptable, but prioritize their wishes. Research by Kelley et
al. (2017) suggests focusing on the sensory experience of food, allowing
patients to savor familiar tastes without the burden of a full meal [4].
Addressing Emotional Concerns:
Families often equate food with love and nurturing.
Acknowledge these emotions and explain how forcing food can create a negative
association. Highlight the importance of spending quality time, holding hands,
and offering emotional support [5].
Clear Communication is Key:
Open communication is paramount. Use clear, concise
language, avoiding medical jargon, and answer questions honestly (Gabb et al.,
2019) [6]. Explain the physiological changes and potential complications of
forced feeding.
Empower families to participate in decision-making.
Present the evidence, but respect their cultural and religious beliefs. Guide
them towards prioritizing their loved one’s comfort while offering emotional
support throughout the process [7].
Collaboration with the Hospice Team:
Hospice nurses and social workers are experts in
navigating these discussions. The hospice team will work collaboratively to
develop a care plan that aligns with the patient’s needs and the family’s
wishes [8].
Conversations about food at the end-of-life can be
emotionally charged. Equipping medical professionals with clear communication
strategies can guide families toward prioritizing patient comfort while
respecting their wishes. By focusing on the body’s changing needs and
prioritizing comfort over forced feeding, healthcare teams can ensure a
peaceful transition for patients and their loved ones during this sensitive
time.
References:
There are plenty of reasons for family members to take care of aging or disabled loved ones. The role can be rewarding, bringing people closer to the people they love and allowing them to tailor care to their personal needs and preferences. But even the most dedicated family caregivers need a break to focus on their own well-being, especially around the busy holiday season. Thats where respite care comes in.Despite the fact that 1 out of every 5 Americans acts as a caregiver to a loved one, only 15% take advantage of respite care services available to them. Respite care can create better outcomes for caregivers and their loved ones alike. It gives family members time to rest and recharge so they can come back to the role with fresh eyes and renewed spirit.But what is respite care, and is it right for you? Lets take a look at the many benefits of hiring a home care agency to give you a helping hand when you need it.What is In-Home Respite Care?In-home respite care is a form of temporary relief from the responsibilities of caretaking. You get to set the termsit could mean hiring a professional aide for an afternoon, for several weeks, or anything in between. At ComForCare, our highly trained staff can come to your loved ones home to perform many of the duties you provide on a daily basis, including:Preparing meals and helping them eatHelping them groom, bathe, and dressProviding medication remindersGrocery shopping, picking up medications, and related errandsCoordinating care and transporting them to and from doctor appointmentsLight housekeepingUnlike adult day-care centers or respite care facilities, in-home care reduces the stress on your loved one by bringing care to them. They get to stay in their familiar environment with minimal disruption to their routineand you get a break to focus on your needs.Benefits of Respite CareManage Stress & Ward Off BurnoutOver half of family caregivers in an AARP survey reported that they experience moderate to high levels of stress related to their roles responsibilities. Combined with the added pressures of the holiday season, the winter months can quickly lead to burnout for those taking care of loved ones. Respite care gives you room to breathe, just like taking time off work. After all, though it can be deeply rewarding, caretaking is a form of labor. Working so hard without rest can take a serious toll on your mental health, which in turn can affect your ability to care for your loved one.Reduce Health Risks for Your Loved OneWhen were burnt out, busy, or bustling around more than usual, we can overlook important signs of illness or disease progression. Were only human, and can only focus on so many things at once. ComForCares home aides are specially trained to watch for warning signs that your loved one needs medical intervention or additional help. They can also provide you with a fresh perspective after months or even years of seeing your loved one every day.This is especially true if your loved one has recently suffered an injury or had a medical procedure. Temporary respite care during their recovery can reduce the risk of infection and rehospitalization. Its a way to optimize their healing process while taking some time to focus on your health, too.Find Support & a Social NetworkBetween 40% and 70% of family caregivers struggle with feelings of depression, often compounded or caused by isolation and loneliness. During this time of the year when were supposed to be celebrating togetherness, that struggle can begin to feel unmanageable. Not enough caregivers realize that there are support groups for people just like them, where they can come together, socialize, and share their experiences. Home care agencies like ComForCare can connect you with those resources.We do everything in our power to take care of our clientsand that means helping family caregivers just as much as it means assisting their loved ones with their daily needs. We have a wealth of knowledge about mental health resources and support systems, and were glad to share those with you while we give you a helping hand. Respite Care Isnt SelfishIts a GiftOne of the biggest hurdles to self-care can be feelings of guilt. Its easy to see taking time for yourself as a selfish act. But the reality is, taking a break is a gift to your loved one, too. Whether all you need is a day alone to catch up on errands or a week to take your first vacation in years, youll return as a more resilient, more compassionate, and more capable caregiver.At ComForCare, all of our employees are background checked, highly trained, and vetted for a passion for treating all their clients with dignity and respect. Whether they meet your loved one only once or on a regular basis, theyll provide the highest level of care so you can rest easy. To learn more about our work and find a schedule that will fit into your life and your budget, get in touch with us today!
Benefits of Senior Care at HomeAs we grow older, our needs change, and sometimes we require a little extra help to maintain our quality of life. Senior care at home has become an increasingly popular option for many families, offering numerous benefits that cater to the unique needs of older adults. Let's explore why this type of care can be so valuable for our loved ones.Comfort and FamiliarityOne of the greatest advantages of senior care at home is the ability to remain in a familiar environment. For many older adults, their home is filled with cherished memories and provides a sense of comfort that cannot be replicated elsewhere. Staying at home can help reduce stress and anxiety, which is particularly important for those dealing with memory issues or cognitive decline.Personalized CareEvery individual has unique needs, and senior care at home allows for a tailored approach to meet these specific requirements. Whether it's assistance with daily tasks, medication management, or specialized care for conditions like dementia, a personalized care plan ensures that your loved one receives the exact support they need.Companionship and Social InteractionLoneliness and social isolation can have serious negative effects on an older person's health and well-being. In-home caregivers not only provide practical assistance but also offer much-needed companionship. They can engage in conversations, share activities, and provide a friendly face to look forward to each day.Maintaining IndependenceMany older adults fear losing their independence as they age. Senior care at home allows them to maintain a sense of control over their lives while receiving necessary support. Caregivers can assist with tasks that have become challenging, enabling seniors to continue living life on their own terms.Family InvolvementHome care encourages family involvement in the caregiving process. This collaborative approach ensures that the family remains an integral part of the support system, promoting a holistic and well-rounded care experience.Flexible Care OptionsAs needs change over time, in-home care can be adjusted accordingly. Whether it's increasing the level of support or adding specialized services, the flexibility of home care allows for seamless transitions without the need for a major upheaval in your loved one's life.Peace of Mind for FamiliesKnowing that a trained professional is caring for your loved one can provide immense peace of mind for family members. This is especially true for those who live far away or have demanding work schedules that make it difficult to provide regular care themselves.Cost-Effective CareIn many cases, in-home care can be more cost-effective than moving to a residential facility, especially if 24/7 care is not required. It allows families to pay only for the services needed rather than a comprehensive package that may include unnecessary amenities.Promoting Overall Well-beingSenior care at home goes beyond just meeting physical needs. It encompasses emotional and mental well-being too. Caregivers can encourage seniors to stay active, engage in hobbies, and maintain social connections, all of which contribute to a higher quality of life.Specialized Care for Unique NeedsFor seniors with specific health conditions, such as Alzheimer's or Parkinson's disease, in-home care can provide specialized support tailored to these unique challenges. Caregivers trained in these areas can offer expert assistance and help manage symptoms effectively.Remember, growing older doesn't mean giving up on the joys of life. With the right support, seniors can continue to thrive in the comfort of their own homes, maintaining their independence while receiving the care they need. It's not just about adding years to life but adding life to years. Quality Care You Can TrustWith over a decade of experience and a team led by a registered nurse, you can trust that your loved one is in good hands with Rita's Home Care. We are passionate about helping those in need and ensuring they receive the best care possible, just as we would for our own family members.Whether you need traditional home care services for an elderly loved one, specialized dementia care support, or end-of-life care, our team is trained and equipped to handle it all. We understand that every individual has unique needs, which is why we offer personalized care plans to ensure your loved one receives the specific support they need to thrive.
Lets Get Heart Smart February Is American Heart MonthBy the time you read this, the reported deaths from COVID-19 and its variants in the U.S. will be close to 900,000. As staggering as that statistic is, its 400,000 short of the number of Americans killed by Heart Disease in the same time period. Heart disease is the leading cause of death for men and women of most racial and ethnic groups.Lets not allow the topic to overwhelm the fact theres a miracle inside your chest. Weighing about as much as a grapefruit, the heart is a powerful pump that drives five to six quarts of blood to every microscopic part of your body every second. And if it fails for even a second, the body is very unforgiving. Even though its the one piece of machinery driven by the brain, we tend to treat the heart like a kitchen appliance that we take for granted. Rarely serviced, rarely cleaned, and overworked until it burns out. Although heart bypass and transplant have become routine since the pioneering operations in the 1960s, its not like replacing the coffee maker you neglected too long.One Thing at a TimeThe better way to treat your heart with the respect it deserves is to start with changing just small habits. That way, youll avoid the relapse from trying to change everything at once and falling back to unhealthy heart habits inside of a month. The most obvious: if youre a smoker or heavy drinker, work on that first. Imagine a small team of remodelers arriving at your heart to do a makeover. The first thing theyre going to say is, Well, we cant do anything with the plumbing until we clear the smoke.Look for Help During Heart MonthQuitting smoking and reducing alcohol is never easy, but this is probably as good a time as any during the year to start a cessation program with help. February is American Heart Month, so youre likely to be reminded frequently of heart health and offered tips on modifying your routine to help your heart and prolong a happy life. If you only look to one place, trust the American Heart Association www.heart.org. Prediabetes and Heart DiseaseWhats your blood sugar level? If you dont know, you should find out from your doctor if youre not already monitoring it yourself. You could be pre-diabetic without knowing it or showing any symptoms. Theres a good chance you could avoid becoming diabetic and reverse your pre-diabetic blood sugar to normal with relatively little change to your diet and a slight increase inyour activity. Diabetes has long been linked to heart disease, but recent studies suggest that reversing prediabetes is also linked to fewer heart attacks and strokes. [Reversing Prediabetes linked to fewer heart attacks, strokes, heart.org, Jan. 26, 2021.]While youre at it, get your cholesterol tested and routinely monitor your blood pressure.If youre worried you might be at risk for heart disease, ask your doctor to perform a simple cholesterol test to let you know if youre at risk and should adjust your diet. Home blood pressure monitors are not expensive, theyre digital, and theyre easy to use. Blood pressure stations are common in supermarkets now, and you can also check your weight and pulse.Womens Heart HealthWhy the emphasis on womens heart health? The American Heart Association tells us that cardiovascular disease is the No. 1 killer of women, causing 1 in 3 deaths each year about one woman every minute. They devote an entire website to womens heart health: Go Red for Women (www.goredforwomen.org). Here are just a few of the common misconceptions about womens heart health:Myth: Heart disease is for men, and cancer is the real threat for womenFact: Heart disease is a killer that strikes more women than men and is more deadly than all cancer forms combined. While one in 31 American women dies from breast cancer each year, heart disease is the cause of one out of every three deaths.Myth: Heart disease is for old peopleFact: Heart disease affects women of all ages. For younger women, the combination of birth control pills and smoking boosts heart disease risks by 20 percent. Heart defects are more common than you might think: 1.3 million Americans alive today have some form of congenital heart defect and at least nine of every 1,000 infants born each year have a heart defect. Even if you live a completely healthy lifestyle, being born with an underlying heart condition can be a risk factor.Myth: I run marathons no way I could be at risk.Fact: Factors like cholesterol, eating habits, and smoking can counterbalance your other healthy habits. You can be thin and have high cholesterol. The American Heart Association says to start getting your cholesterol checked at age 20. Earlier, if your family has a history of heart disease.Age and Heart HealthMany things, like wine and most people, grow better with age. The heart, however, takes more tending than a glass of fine wine. Avoid things that weaken your heart beyond the normal aging process. These are the usual suspects: smoking and tobacco use, lack of exercise, diet, alcohol, overeating, and stress. Some preexisting conditions you cant control: irregular heartbeat, congenital (inherited) heart defects, sleep apnea (although this may be a product of obesity or alcohol consumption).Viruses and MyocarditisMyocarditis is an inflammation of the heart muscle mostly caused by a virus, including COVID-19, and can lead to left-sided heart failure. The left ventricle of the heart is the part that pumps oxygen-rich blood back to the body. This valve tends to stiffen with age. Thats one of the many reasons why age combined with a preexisting condition puts you at greater risk of death from COVID-19. Even survivors of the novel coronavirus infection can sustain permanent heart damage. All people must protect themselves and others from COVID-19 by observing precautions, not just because of its immediate lethality but also because of its impact on the heart, known and unknown.How to Start with Your HeartThe factors involved in heart health and the onset of heart disease are many, varied, and complicated. But the common preventions (listed here, from the Mayo Clinic) are simple. You probably already know them by heart, so to speak:Not smokingControlling certain conditions, such as high blood pressure and diabetesStaying physically activeEating healthy foodsMaintaining a healthy weightReducing and managing stressThose may seem like six significant challenges, especially if you take on all six. But you should notice something else about them. Almost every one of them can affect the other five. So, if you pick one, youll find it easier to take on the next one. People who quit smoking usually discover that they have more energy within the first week, and exercise becomes easier. A little exercise and switching out one unhealthy food will help with weight, stress, blood pressure, and diabetes. Easy does it, especially if youre 65 and older. Youve spent a whole life learning one way. You can take your time. Learn to enjoy your healthier heart. But start today.First, Get a Checkup!Most of the questions this article has raised in your mind (Whats my blood sugar level? Whats my blood pressure? I used to smoke am I at risk?) can all be answered in a single doctors visit with simple lab work done a few days before. Schedule it now, before you start a program of exercise and diet. And schedule a regular exam per your doctors recommendation. Relieving the stress of not knowing will be a good start on your way to a healthier heart.
Make the Choice of Quality End of LifeGrane Hospice Care provides Comfort for the Body, Mind, and Soul through unique, individualized and professional care plans allowing you to live comfortably in your home, surrounded by loved ones. We will tailor an experienced team to meet your individual needs and deliver a personalized, focused care plan. With almost 20 years of experience, Grane Hospice is the right choice for the best quality of care for you and your loved ones. Our mission is to provide premium comfort care to patients, families, and caregivers through an interdisciplinary team approach that understands, respects, and meets individual needs. In addition to our well-known clinical care, our aides provide supplemental personal care through bathing, feeding and dressing assistance. Our volunteers are also available for visits, errands and companionship. We are a leading provider for hospice care services in Pennsylvania.Physician Services Will Address All NeedsAt Grane Hospice Care, we provide the physician services you would expect of hospice and go above and beyond to provide premier care for our patients. The patients Primary Care Physician remains the director for their care, and our staff works to keep them informed of the patients condition, wants, and needs. Working in conjunction with our Medical Director, our clinical team provides all necessary education and home visits that are outlined in each care plan.Taking Care of Pain and Symptom ManagementCare plans for pain and medication coordination are essential aspects of hospice care. We work with your loved one to understand their needs, and then we create a strategy for pain and symptom management throughout their time with us. Our nurses will administer the necessary medications and treatments during their home visits to keep your loved one as comfortable as possible.Personalized Comfort Care for Your Loved OneThere are few things that are more dehumanizing than being treated like just another number. At Grane Hospice Care, we create individualized care plans that treat your loved one as a human being. Our nurses and nurse aides add a personal touch to their daily care plans, so you can rest assured your loved one is in good hands.Unlimited Bereavement SupportIt is an understatement to say dealing with the loss of a loved one is difficult. That is why Grane Hospice Care is committed to providing unlimited bereavement services to families of loved ones. You will meet with a qualified bereavement coordinator during the admission process and will receive their support throughout the entire hospice care process. If you would prefer a group approach, contact your local Grane Hospice location for more information about community support groups in your area.Assisting Beyond Physical NeedsJust as important as the physical needs, social and spiritual support are prioritized during the care process. Our Medical Social Workers are available to help you navigate the required paperwork associated with the admission process to hospice care. Also, should you have a religious affiliation, our chaplain and bereavement teams will assist you with spiritual needs during end of life and any special arrangements you prefer, such as funeral arrangements and memorial services.Volunteers Add an Extra Personal TouchIn addition to the knowledgeable care team, Grane Hospice has a dedicated volunteer staff available for our hospice patients. Our volunteers are compassionate, friendly individuals aimed to providing extra care for your loved one. These volunteers go for walks, read to patients, create personalized crafts, or simply provide conversations. Our volunteers are also available to offer you and your family support through the grieving process.We Take Care of the Supplies You NeedThe cost of medication can put an undue burden on a patients family. Luckily, Grane Hospice will handle the costs associated with medication, medical equipment, and other supplies related to the patients terminal diagnosis. We are well-equipped to coordinate with insurance companies to ensure all medical supplies are readily available.Indicators that are hospice-eligible can include but are not limited to:Weight LossIncreased assistance with daily activitiesIncreased weakness and fatigueFrequent and multiple fallsDifficulty swallowingShortness of breath or chest painContinuous oxygenIncrease/changes in medicationRecurring or multiple infectionsFrequent phone calls to physicianFrequent hospitalizations or ER visits
About Grane Hospice CareA wise person once said that life is a journey, not a destination. This adage holds true, even if you are living with a terminal illness. At Grane Hospice Care, we are with you every step of the way and will help ensure that the last stages of your life are as fulfilling, enjoyable, and comfortable as possible.What Is Grane Hospice Care?Grane Hospice Care is a leading provider of premium comfort care services aimed at helping you manage pain, stay comfortable, and improve your overall well-being during the last stages of life if you are living with a terminal illness.Our professional care team include physicians, nurses, social workers, certified nursing assistants and others who function as part of a large interdisciplinary team. We are devoted to supporting your emotional, physical, mental, and spiritual health, and to helping you, your loved ones, and your caregivers navigate your illness and final days.Grane Hospice Care has been serving Pennsylvanians since 2005. We have several locations throughout Pennsylvania and are licensed to provide care services for in-state residents within a 60-mile radius of our office locations.Services Available from Grane Hospice CareAll our services at Grane Hospice Care can be tailored for you based on your unique health situation and on your personal goals and desires. We want you to feel comfortable and happy under our care and will do what it takes to make sure you have everything you need.Some of our services include: 24/7 on-call hospice support Symptom management, to reduce symptoms including nausea, anxiety, and breathing difficulty Pain management Medication management and coordination Nursing Aide visits to help with daily activities, including bathing, dressing, and eating. Registered Nurse visits Medical equipment and supplies services, for help with setting up equipment, including hospital beds and oxygen tanks. Volunteer visits for companionship and help with running errands Bereavement program for your friends, relatives, and loved ones Inpatient respite care, general inpatient care, and continuous care programs Social and spiritual services We Honor Veterans program.What Are the Benefits of Hospice Care?Hospice care provides you with wholesome, personalized health care and support in the comfort of your home, surrounded by your loved ones as you cope with a life-limiting, terminal illness. This is one of the greatest benefits of hospice care, especially for those who want to avoid spending their last days in sterile and unfamiliar hospital settings.There are a countless number of benefits to receiving hospice care. Some of these benefits include: Feeling more in control of your health Reduction in symptoms, including pain More quality time with friends and loved ones Comprehensive health care from an interdisciplinary team of hospice care professionals Around-the-clock medical care, including on weekends and holidays Help with daily activities you may not be able to perform efficiently on your own Financial savings A sense of dignity during your last days Respect for your wishes Counseling and bereavement for your loved onesWho Is Eligible to Receive Hospice Care?Your healthcare provider may recommend hospice care if you are living with a terminal illness and its prognosis is a life expectancy of six months or less, given the illness runs its natural course. Anyone can make a referral to hospice carewhich can include referring yourself to care or having a loved one reach out for a hospice care consultation.Illnesses that may be eligible for hospice care include: Cancer Stroke Congestive heart failure Dementia and Alzheimers disease AIDS Liver disease Chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD) End-of-stage renal disease Parkinsons disease Huntingtons disease Multiple sclerosisConsult with us to determine whether you qualify for end-of-life care with Grane Hospice based on your condition.Tips for Finding the Best Hospice Care ProviderA great, quality hospice care provider will respect your end-of-life wishes and deliver unparalleled medical care that involves an interdisciplinary team of experienced physicians and hospice care professionals. The medical professionals with whom you interact should make you feel comfortable, relaxed, and content while navigating a life-limiting terminal illness.Follow these tips to select a quality hospice care provider: Ask friends and relatives for referrals to local hospice care providers. Seek professional opinions from your current healthcare provider. Browse and read online reviews of hospice care providers written by the loved ones of former patients. Choose a Medicare-certified provider that will uphold certain requirements related to patient care and management. All Grane Hospice Care offices are Medicare-certified. Make sure it offers highly individualized care plans. Confirm it offers all the services and programs you want or that are required for your condition. Learn how often you will receive visits from hospice care workers. Find out whether the providers hospice care services are covered by your insurance plan. Choose a provider that offers bereavement and counseling services for your loved ones. Confirm whether the provider will honor and respect your culture, beliefs, traditions, and needs. Pay attention during interactions with hospice care staff to look for signs of empathy, kindness, compassion, and other traits you value in medical professionals. Ask the hospice care provider how it can enhance your quality of life while living with a terminal illness. Find out whether the hospice care provider specializes in treating your specific illness or comorbid conditions, if applicable.Grane Hospice Care is where life is celebrated, and we are devoted to becoming a member of your family during your last days and to providing premium comfort care. Contact us today at 1-800-379-0129 to learn more about our hospice care services.