Chris DiMaso | July 28, 2021
“Praise be to the God and Father of our Lord Jesus Christ, the Father of compassion and the God of all comfort” 2 Cor 1:3
Hospice and palliative care are unique services available to help empower you and your loved one during end-of-life. This article is to help you make a decision on what services you need and provide you with resources to move forward.
What is hospice?
Hospice is a unique service that focuses on patients and their caregivers who are facing advanced end-of-life illness. Hospice provides compassionate care for people in their final phase of life so they can live in peace and comfort. The guiding philosophy of hospice is to regard death as the final stage of life. It respects life without trying to postpone death. Hospice focuses on the needs of the person and alleviating the symptoms afflicting them, related to their disease process instead of aggressively trying to cure the disease. Hospice works as a holistic team to manage symptoms, so the patient’s final time is met with quality and dignity. Hospice care is family-focused and includes the patient and their loved ones when making decisions.
What does hospice do?
When a care provider deems hospice is the right course of action, the patient will choose a hospice agency that suites their needs. Often the hospital or nursing facility can help provide options if the family doesn’t already have a choice in mind. The patient will be visited by a hospice nurse for an evaluation. Two doctors must agree that the patient’s prognosis is 6 months or less to qualify for services. If a patient qualifies, they are admitted and services begin. An interdisciplinary team is assigned to the patient/family that includes: an RN Case Manager, Social Worker, Home Health Aide, bereavement coordinator and a Chaplain and volunteers if they wish. Often hospice agencies also have complementary therapies such as music therapy, massage therapy, aromatherapy, and beautician services. This team approach is overseen by a hospice medical director who will collaborate with the primary physician of the patient. A patient can choose to have the hospice medical director as their primary physician if they prefer.
Services offered in hospice care include, but are not limited to:
Who needs hospice?
Hospice is considered when you or a loved one has been diagnosed with an illness that will limit the length and quality of life. Speak with your care provider about all options, including hospice. Frequent reasons to consider hospice include but are not limited to late-stage dementia and Alzheimer’s, cancer, heart disease, AIDS, ALS, COPD and others. Patients can become eligible for hospice care services when their provider deems that the natural course of illness has a life expectancy of six months or less. It is important that comfort and care of symptom management becomes the priority, and continuing treatment of the illness is no longer beneficial. Hospice care provides a level of support that is unrivaled. An interdisciplinary team of clinicians, social workers, spiritual and grief counselors, and volunteers rally around you or your loved one to meet their needs. This can range from medical treatment and cessation of pain, to coordination of services, or making peace with family and a higher power.
“At the end of our lives, what do we most wish for? For many, it’s simply comfort, respect, love.” -BJ Miller
What are the options in hospice?
End-of-life care is personal and should be tailored to meet the needs and desires of the individual. This can include everything from the level of care needed to directives of where someone wishes to pass.
Hospice vs palliative care
Hospice and palliative care address many of the same issues, but can look very different on a case-by-case basis. Hospice is intended for individuals will a life expectancy of fewer than six months, where palliative care isn’t limited to this time period. Your loved one could benefit from advanced care even if their illness is not life-limiting in the near future. End-of-life goals and symptom management are crucial in both scenarios, and it is important to meet with your healthcare provider to discuss which is appropriate for you or your loved one.
Home-based care
Depending on the resources needed, some patients choose to remain in the home at the end of their journey. This decision is closely linked to the goals of the patient, their condition, and the amount and quality of support available. It is important to note, that the hospice benefit does not include private duty care/or around the clock nursing services.
Long-term care facilities
Facilities like Villa St. Francis offer higher levels of support and can address needs on a case-by-case basis. We offer tranquil settings both in private and semi-private rooms. Our team works closely with Hospice services to ensure pain and symptom management is addressed 24 hours a day, and our nurses and CNAs are available to take care of the patient around the clock and coordinate care plans with hospice professionals who supply supplementary care. We have social workers and spiritual care on-site. Working with Villa St. Francis and a hospice service offers a comprehensive level of care.
General inpatient care
The highest level of care under hospice is called GIP- general inpatient. A patient can qualify for this if their symptoms are unmanageable in their home. GIP is considered “the ICU” of hospice. This can occur in the hospital, but most patients prefer not to return to or remain in the hospital at end of life. Villa St. Francis has a dedicated wing, called The Hospice Suites, with private rooms that can accommodate GIP level of care, with 24 hour RN support.
Who pays for hospice?
The majority of patients requiring hospice services will be eligible for Medicare Hospice Benefit, which covers up to 100% of services. You should not defer hospice due to concerns about payment or financial concerns. Medicare covers hospice as an inclusive benefit and all services related to a life limiting illness are included up to 100% by Medicare Part A. Services unrelated to the illness are covered by Parts A and B where normal rules apply.
Little known facts about hospice
What to look for in a hospice provider.
Talk to the professionals. Your doctor, nurses, and social workers are great resources when it comes to choosing a hospice provider. Also, speak with friends and neighbors for advice, it is likely they have had the experience you can draw from in making your decision. You are encouraged to interview hospice agencies to choose the one that is best for you and your family.
Consider asking some of the following questions of the hospice agencies before making a decision:
Read more about what Villa St. Francis has to offer you and your loved one during this time.
Navigating Hospital Stays and Rehabilitation for Parkinsons Patients. This article is part of The Parkinsons Care Compass: A Caregiving Roadmap Guiding Families Through Every Stage, an educational series presented by At Your Home Caregiving of Texas. We are honored to walk beside families, offering specialized in-home care solutions to support every step of the Parkinsons journey. Hospital stays are a stressful experience for any family, but for individuals living with Parkinsons disease, hospitalization poses unique challenges that can significantly impact recovery and long-term health. When a Parkinsons patient requires surgery, treatment for complications, or recovery after a fall, family caregivers must act as advocates, organizers, and partners in care. Being prepared and informed is the key to ensuring a safe hospital stay and a smooth transition back home.At Your Home Caregiving of Texas understands these complexities and stands ready to help families through every step of the journey, providing expert support for rehabilitation and home-based recovery.Unique Hospitalization Challenges for Parkinsons PatientsParkinsons disease complicates hospital care in several critical ways: Medication Management: Parkinsons medications must be administered on a strict schedule to manage symptoms effectively. Delays or missed doses can lead to severe motor symptoms, confusion, and even hospitalization complications. Mobility and Fall Risks: Hospital environments are unfamiliar, and Parkinsons patients face an increased risk of falls due to balance issues and muscle rigidity. Cognitive Changes: Hospitalization can sometimes trigger or worsen confusion, memory problems, or delirium, especially in older adults with Parkinsons. Communication Difficulties: Some patients experience soft speech (hypophonia) or facial masking, making it difficult to express needs clearly to hospital staff unfamiliar with Parkinsons care. Being aware of these risks allows families to take a proactive role during the hospital stay, minimizing complications and ensuring the best possible outcome.Preparing for a Hospital Stay: Advocacy and PlanningIf hospitalization is scheduled (for surgery or planned treatments), preparation can make a significant difference:1. Create a Hospital Parkinsons PlanPrepare a simple one-page document outlining your loved ones: Current medications and exact times for administration Mobility limitations and fall risk status Communication needs Cognitive changes or dementia symptoms Preferences for therapy, rehabilitation, and home care after discharge Provide this information to the hospital staff immediately upon admission.2. Bring Medications to the HospitalBring a full list and ideally the actual medications in their original containers. In some hospitals, families can administer Parkinsons medications if theres a risk of delays.3. Assign an AdvocateDesignate a family member or professional caregiver to be present as much as possible, especially during medication times, shift changes, and physician rounds. Having a consistent advocate can prevent critical mistakes and advocate for the patients specialized needs.The Importance of Medication TimingOne of the biggest risks for Parkinsons patients in the hospital is missed or mistimed medications. Parkinsons medications like carbidopa-levodopa must be administered exactly as prescribed, sometimes multiple times a day, to prevent a sudden worsening of motor and non-motor symptoms.Tips for ensuring proper medication administration: Clearly document the medication schedule and insist it be incorporated into the hospitals care orders. Politely but firmly remind nursing staff of the critical importance of on-time dosing. Advocate for medication self-administration if allowed by hospital policy. Watch for any substitutions generic or alternate medications can sometimes affect symptom control. Families should feel empowered to respectfully advocate for their loved ones medical needs. Delay in Parkinsons medication can lead to avoidable setbacks in recovery.Understanding Rehabilitation OptionsAfter hospitalization, rehabilitation is essential for helping Parkinsons patients regain strength, balance, and function. Depending on the situation, rehabilitation may occur in: Inpatient Rehabilitation Facilities (IRFs): Specialized centers offering intensive physical, occupational, and speech therapy. Skilled Nursing Facilities (SNFs): Short-term stays focused on medical monitoring and therapy. Home-Based Rehabilitation: Therapy provided at home, which may be the best option for patients with significant mobility challenges or those at high risk of hospital-acquired infections. At Your Home Caregiving of Texas partners with rehabilitation therapists to support continuity of care at home, ensuring that exercises, safety measures, and care plans are followed consistently.Key Rehabilitation Goals for Parkinsons Patients Improving strength and flexibility Reducing fall risk through balance and gait training Enhancing fine motor skills (handwriting, eating, dressing) Improving swallowing and speech if affected Maintaining independence as much as possible Early rehabilitation after hospitalization is crucial for Parkinsons patients. Without it, the risk of decline, injury, and readmission significantly increases.Transitioning Safely Back HomeThe transition from hospital to home is a vulnerable time. Planning ahead is critical to prevent setbacks.Steps for a Successful Transition: Arrange Home Care Services Early: Schedule in-home caregiving services to assist with mobility, medication reminders, and personal care. Conduct a Home Safety Evaluation: Adapt the home environment to minimize fall risks remove tripping hazards, install grab bars, ensure proper lighting, and use assistive devices. Coordinate Medication Management: Update prescriptions, confirm medication supply, and create a clear medication schedule. Schedule Follow-Up Appointments: Ensure post-discharge physician and therapy visits are scheduled before leaving the hospital. Implement a Rehabilitation Plan: Continue physical therapy and exercise routines at home, guided by professional caregivers and therapists. At Your Home Caregiving of Texas specializes in providing comprehensive transitional care for Parkinsons patients. Our caregivers work alongside families and healthcare professionals to ensure that recovery continues safely and effectively at home.How At Your Home Caregiving of Texas Supports RecoveryFamilies managing Parkinsons care dont have to do it alone. Our services are designed to ease the burden of post-hospitalization recovery by providing: Personalized Care Plans: Tailored to the individuals stage of Parkinsons and rehabilitation needs. Medication Reminders and Assistance: Helping maintain the critical medication schedule. Mobility Support: Assisting with walking, transferring, and exercises to rebuild strength and prevent falls. Nutrition and Meal Support: Preparing nutritious meals that support energy and healing. Companionship and Emotional Support: Reducing anxiety, confusion, and isolation during the recovery process. Coordination with Healthcare Providers: Keeping families informed and ensuring therapy recommendations are carried out at home. We work hard to create an environment where patients can heal comfortably, maintain dignity, and reduce the risk of hospital readmission.Final ThoughtsHospital stays are never easy, especially when Parkinsons disease adds another layer of complexity. But with the right preparation, strong advocacy, and a smooth rehabilitation plan, families can help their loved ones achieve the best possible recovery.At Your Home Caregiving of Texas stands beside you every step of the way from hospital bedside to a safe and healing home environment. Our specialized Parkinsons care services ensure that patients get the compassionate, expert support they need to regain strength, confidence, and independence.When its time to transition home after hospitalization, trust At Your Home Caregiving of Texas to be your partner in care and recovery. At Your Home Caregiving of Texas is proud to support families living with Parkinsons disease through compassionate, expert care. For more resources and personalized caregiving solutions, explore the full Parkinsons Care Compass series or contact us today at 469-830-8414. Together, we can create a safer, stronger path to recovery one step at a time. If someone you care about is facing the challenges of Parkinson's, know that you're not alonewe're always here to help.
How Does Occupational Therapy Improve Life for Home Health Patients?April is Occupational Therapy Month, a time to celebrate the professionals who help individuals regain independence and improve their quality of life. In home health care, Occupational Therapists (OTs) are vital in helping patients live safely and comfortably in their own homes. In this post, we'll explore the important role OTs play in home health services and how they support patients in managing daily activities and overcoming challenges related to their physical or cognitive conditions.Occupational Therapists in home health care are trained to evaluate patients' ability to perform activities of daily living (ADLs), such as bathing, dressing, cooking, and housekeeping. They assess the environment and identify any barriers that may prevent patients from carrying out these tasks independently. Whether it's through recommending assistive devices or modifying the home, OTs create solutions to help patients live more comfortably and safely.One of the primary goals of Occupational Therapy is to help patients regain independence. OTs work with patients on rehabilitation techniques, encouraging them to practice tasks that were once routine, such as getting dressed or preparing meals. With personalized therapy plans, OTs empower patients to take back control over their daily routines, making them feel more confident in their abilities.In addition to physical recovery, Occupational Therapists focus on cognitive rehabilitation. Many patients may struggle with memory, attention, or problem-solving skills after a stroke, brain injury, or other medical conditions. OTs create strategies and exercises that help patients improve these cognitive functions, making it easier for them to navigate their home environment and perform essential tasks.Home safety is a top priority for Occupational Therapists. OTs conduct home assessments to identify potential risks and hazards, such as loose rugs, inadequate lighting, or inaccessible bathrooms. They offer recommendations for modifications like grab bars, ramps, or improved lighting to ensure the home is a safe space for patients to recover and thrive.Occupational Therapists also provide support and education to family members and caregivers, helping them understand how to assist patients with their daily activities safely. OTs teach caregivers proper techniques for transferring patients, managing equipment, and offering emotional support. This guidance ensures that both patients and caregivers feel confident in managing care at home.Occupational Therapists play a crucial role in home health services, enabling patients to maintain their independence and live safely at home. Through personalized therapy plans, home modifications, and cognitive exercises, OTs help patients regain control over their lives and continue to engage in the activities they enjoy. During Occupational Therapy Month, we celebrate the tireless work of OTs who improve lives and make a positive impact on their patients' well-being. Aveanna Home Health has two locations in Mobile and Baldwin counties. Contact Aveanna for your home health needs at 251-304-3158 to learn more.
Embrace the Winter Season: Stay Safe, Warm, and Healthy with These Essential Tips!As the cold winter season approaches and temperatures begin to plummet, its natural to feel a little apprehensive. But instead of dreading the chill, why not prepare for it with confidence? With a few simple strategies, you can safeguard your health, stay cozy, and even enjoy the beauty of winter. Heres how to stay safe, warm, and healthy all season long!Warm Up with a Comforting Drink Theres nothing quite like wrapping your hands around a steaming mug of your favorite beverage on a cold day. Sipping a hot drink not only warms your body from the inside out but also lifts your spirits. Herbal teas, hot chocolate, or warm apple cider are perfect choices. Try to avoid excessive caffeine, as it can lead to dehydration. Opt for decaffeinated or herbal options that provide warmth without the jitters.Hydrate, Hydrate, Hydrate! Its easy to forget about drinking water when its cold outside, but staying hydrated is just as important in winter as it is in summer. Indoor heating and dry, chilly air can quickly lead to dehydration. Make a habit of drinking plenty of water throughout the day. Warm lemon water or broths are excellent alternatives that keep you both hydrated and warm.Cover Up Your Head and Neck Did you know that a significant amount of body heat escapes through your head and neck? Keep these areas protected by wearing a cozy hat and scarf when venturing outside. Not only will you feel warmer, but youll also reduce your risk of catching a chill. And dont forget a good pair of gloves to keep your hands toasty!Layer Up for Maximum Warmth The secret to staying warm outdoors isnt one thick coatits layering! Wear multiple thin layers of clothing that trap warm air close to your body. This method is more effective at maintaining warmth than wearing a single bulky layer. Plus, layers are easy to remove if you start to overheat indoors.Maintain a Cozy Indoor Temperature To keep your home warm and comfortable, set your thermostat to at least 65 Fahrenheit. If heating your entire home isnt feasible, focus on keeping the rooms you use most often at a cozy temperature. Space heaters, electric blankets, and thermal curtains can also help maintain warmth without overloading your heating system.Stay Active to Beat the Chill Cold weather often makes us want to hibernate, but staying active is one of the best ways to keep warm and healthy. Indoor exercise like yoga, stretching, or even walking in place can get your blood flowing and help prevent muscles from becoming stiff in the cold. Take short movement breaks throughout the day to stay energized and warm.Know the Signs of Hypothermia Understanding the warning signs of hypothermia is crucial during the winter months. Early symptoms include pale skin, swollen face, slurred speech, irritability, confusion, and cold extremities. If these symptoms progress to difficulty walking, clumsiness, a slow heartbeat, or shallow breathing, seek medical help immediately. Call 911 if you suspect hypothermia in yourself or a loved one.Winter Wellness: Mental Health Matters Too Winter isnt just hard on the bodyit can take a toll on mental health as well. The National Institute on Aging reports that up to 20% of older adults experience seasonal depression or mood changes due to shorter days and colder weather. Feelings of sadness, loneliness, or fatigue are common, but they dont have to take over the season.If you care for an aging loved one, watch for signs like a lack of interest in activities, lower energy levels, and social withdrawal. These could indicate that they need extra support. Seniors face a higher risk of depression and anxiety, but mental health often goes unchecked.Finding Support with Trinity Health PACE The good news? There are ways to combat winter blues and keep spirits high. Trinity Health PACE (Program of All-Inclusive Care for the Elderly) offers seniors a vibrant community where social interaction and mental stimulation thrive. Activities like pet therapy, dance classes, bingo, and trivia provide connection and fun, helping to reduce feelings of isolation.Veronica Guidry, a Recreation Coordinator at Trinity Health PACE Alexandria in Louisiana, sees the positive impact these activities have on participants' mental health. Some say that at first they never wanted to leave the house, but now they are ready to get up, start their day at the center, and do activities, Veronica shares.Not only do the seniors benefit from these interactions, but Veronica herself finds fulfillment in seeing their joy. It is a blessing to work with participants and see their mental health improve. It makes me smile to see them happy, and little do they know, they help me just as much as I try to help them! I have received so much wisdom from them, and I love being part of their day.Caring for the Whole Person Mental health is a key piece of overall well-being. When seniors join a PACE program, they receive comprehensive care for both their mental and physical health. A dedicated team of expertsincluding registered nurses, physical therapists, and dietitiansworks together to treat the whole person, ensuring each participant feels supported and valued.Stay Warm, Stay Well, and Make the Most of Winter Winter may bring snow and chilly winds, but with a little preparation, it can also be a season of warmth, connection, and joy. Whether youre sipping a hot cup of tea, bundling up in cozy layers, or sharing a laugh at a PACE center activity, embracing the season can help you stay healthy and happy. If you have any questions for us or would like to sign up for emails about health and wellness, please reach out to Mercy Life of Alabama at 251-287-8420. Lets make this winter a season of comfort, care, and community!