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The Intersection of Post-Traumatic Stress Disorder (PTSD)
and End-of-Life Care: How Hospice Can Help
PTSD is a mental health condition that can develop after
exposure to a traumatic event. While often associated with veterans, PTSD can
affect anyone at any age, including the elderly. This population may have
experienced war, accidents, violence, or other traumas throughout their lives,
leaving them vulnerable to PTSD symptoms at the end-of-life stage. Hospice
care, with its holistic approach, is uniquely positioned to support patients
with both the physical and emotional challenges of PTSD alongside the dying
process.
PTSD in the Aging Population
Research suggests a potential overlap between PTSD and
age-related cognitive decline [1]. Symptoms like flashbacks, nightmares, and
hypervigilance can be particularly distressing for elderly patients already
facing anxieties about mortality. Furthermore, social isolation, a common
consequence of PTSD, can be exacerbated by the physical limitations often
experienced in later life.
How Hospice Can Help
Hospice care offers a comprehensive support system that can significantly benefit patients with PTSD:
PTSD can be a significant challenge at the end of life.
Hospice care, with its focus on comprehensive symptom management, emotional
support, and spiritual guidance, is uniquely equipped to address the complex
needs of patients with PTSD. By partnering with hospice care, medical
professionals can ensure their aging patients with PTSD receive the
compassionate and holistic care they deserve in their final journey.
References:
Navigating Stress in Chronic Conditions: A Guide for Patients and CaregiversLiving with a chronic condition, or caring for someone who does, can be a profound and life-changing experience. Both roles come with their unique sets of challenges, stresses, and rewards. Its vital to find effective ways to manage stress to maintain both physical health and emotional well-being. This guide explores practical strategies for individuals with chronic conditions and their caregivers to manage stress and improve their quality of life.Mindfulness and Emotional SupportFor Individuals with Chronic Conditions Embrace Mindfulness: Integrating mindfulness exercises into your daily routine can enhance awareness of your physical and emotional state, leading to better stress management. Simple practices like deep breathing, going on a mindful walk, listening to wise teachers (like Alan Watts or Joseph Goldstein), or even mindfully eating can significantly impact your day. The key is to focus on any particular sensation youve never noticed before, like the sensations in your feet as you walk or the unique texture of a certain food. Journaling: Keeping a journal allows you to express and process your emotions, fears, and hopes. Writing can be a therapeutic activity, helping you to navigate your feelings and reduce stress. They key to journaling is to write for yourself and no one else. Dont read what you wrote just write. Then, after a few weeks, reflecting on previous entries can offer valuable insights into challenges youve surmounted, which once seemed insurmountable. For Caregivers Finding Community: Engaging in support group can connect you with individuals facing similar challenges. Sharing experiences and coping strategies can alleviate feelings of isolation and burnout. Practice Self-Compassion: Recognize and honor the hard work and love you put into caregiving. Allowing yourself to feel pride in your resilience and contributions can strengthen your emotional well-being. Being a caregiver is among the worlds most demanding roles, closely paralleling the responsibilities of parenting. Its essential to acknowle3dge and celebrate your personal growth and the skills youve developed throughout your caregiving journey. This recognition not only affirms your invaluable work but also bolsters your emotional health, enabling you to continue providing compassionate care. Physical Wellness and ActivitiesFor Individuals with Chronic Conditions Incorporate Gentle Exercise: Activities like walking, stretching, or yoga can elevate your mood, improve sleep quality, and boost energy levels, enhancing your overall well-being. Nutrition Matters: Adopting a balanced diet can help manage symptoms more effectively. Consulting a nutritionist can provide personalized dietary advice to support your health. A valuable piece of advice from Integrative Medicine Expert, Dr. Andrew Weil, emphasizes the significance of a colorful diet: Its important to eat the rainbow. For Caregivers Take Time for Yourself: Regularly scheduled breaks are essential. Whether its a few minutes of quiet time or engaging in a hobby, breaks can rejuvenate your spirit and energy. Moreover, they redirect your focus toward fulfilling activities, nurturing a sense of gratitude for the simple pleasures in life. Exercise together: If possible, participating in physical activities with your loved one can benefit you both physically and emotionally, fostering a stronger bond. Start small by going on a walk together. Practical Support and Resources Professional Assistance: Dont hesitate to seek help from mental health professionals when needed. They can offer strategies and support to navigate stress effectively. Learn and Educate: Understanding the chronic condition and effective caregiving techniques can empower both the individual and the caregiver. Knowledge can demystify the care process, making it less daunting. Conclusion Managing stress is crucial for both individuals with chronic conditions and their caregivers. By embracing mindfulness, focusing on physical wellness, and utilizing available resources, its possible to navigate these challenges with grace and resilience. Remember, self-care is not an act of selfishness but a necessity, enabling you to provide the best care for your loved one.
A Delicate Dance: Discussing Food and Comfort at the End of LifeFor 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 ones comfort in the final stages of life. This article equips medical professionals with talking points to navigate these sensitive conversations, prioritizing the patients well-being while acknowledging familial concerns. The Bodys Changing Needs:The human bodys 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 dont 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. Shared Decision-Making:Empower families to participate in decision-making. Present the evidence, but respect their cultural and religious beliefs. Guide them towards prioritizing their loved ones 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 patients needs and the familys 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 bodys 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: Wright, B. M., & Sinclair, S. (2000). Palliative care for the dying patient. The Lancet, 356(9242), 1658-1661. Sinuff, T. M., & Schenker, Y. (2005). Palliative care: The evidence base for opioid therapy, artificial nutrition and hydration, and other interventions. The Journal of Pain, 6(2), 113-125. Marik, P., & Rivera, D. (2013). Does artificial hydration prolong life in the critically Ill? A systematic review of the literature. Chest Journal, 144(1), 336-345. Kelley, L. M., Mitchell, G. D., & Carlson, L. E. (2017). Oral care and feeding practices at the end of life in long-term care settings: A review of the literature. Journal of Gerontological Nursing, 43(1), 32-40. Ferrell, B. R., Coyle, N., & Paice, J. A. (2010). The Ferrell model of physical symptoms management. Journal of Palliative Care, 26(2), 115-123. Gabb, J. M., Morrison, R. S., & Clayton, J. M. (2019). Communication with families about artificial nutrition and hydration at the end of life. Current Opinion in Supportive and Palliative Care, 13(2), 118-123. Wright, K. J., & Eluchard, J. M. (2015). Shared decision-making at the end of life: A review of the role of communication. Nursing Ethics, 22(4), 444-459. Zimmermann, C. K., Knauf, H., Greer, T. L., & LeClerc, C. M. (2007). The role of hospice and palliative
The Importance of Vaccinations for Frail AdultsAs a trusted home health partner, we understand the critical role that vaccinations play in safeguarding the health of frail adults. During National Immunization Awareness Month this August, we emphasize the importance of immunizations in preventing severe illnesses and complications, particularly among vulnerable populations.The Role of Vaccinations in Frail AdultsVaccinations are a cornerstone of preventive healthcare, particularly for frail adults who are at a higher risk of complications from infectious diseases. Immunizations help to: Prevent Disease: Vaccines prevent diseases such as influenza, pneumonia, and shingles, which can be particularly severe in older and frail adults. Reduce Hospitalizations: Immunizations reduce the incidence of hospitalizations due to vaccine-preventable diseases, decreasing the burden on healthcare systems and improving patient outcomes. Enhance Quality of Life: By preventing disease, vaccines help maintain the quality of life for frail adults, allowing them to remain more independent and active. Community Immunity: Vaccinating frail adults contributes to herd immunity, protecting those who are unable to be vaccinated due to medical conditions. Key Statistics on the Impact of Vaccinations Influenza: Each year, influenza vaccination prevents an estimated 3.2 million medical visits and 79,000 hospitalizations among adults aged 65 and older (Centers for Disease Control and Prevention [CDC], 2020). Pneumococcal Disease: Vaccination against pneumococcal disease has been shown to reduce the risk of invasive pneumococcal disease by 60-70% in older adults (Jackson et al., 2003). Shingles: The shingles vaccine reduces the incidence of shingles by 51% and postherpetic neuralgia by 67% in adults aged 60 years and older (Oxman et al., 2005). Our Commitment to Vaccine Education and RemindersAs your partner in home health care, we are committed to working collaboratively with you to ensure that your patients are well-informed about the importance of vaccinations. Our services include: Educational Outreach: Providing patients with information on the benefits of vaccines and addressing any concerns or misconceptions they may have. Personalized Vaccine Schedules: Assisting in the creation of personalized vaccine schedules tailored to each patients health status and medical history. Timely Reminders: Sending reminders for upcoming vaccinations to ensure patients receive their immunizations on schedule. Coordination with Healthcare Providers: Collaborating with healthcare providers to ensure seamless vaccine administration and follow-up care. By partnering with us, you can enhance your patients health and wellbeing through comprehensive vaccination education and support. Together, we can make a significant impact in preventing disease and improving health outcomes for frail adults.For more information on how we can support your patients immunization needs, please contact us.ReferencesCenters for Disease Control and Prevention. (2020). Estimated influenza illnesses, medical visits, hospitalizations, and deaths in the United States 20192020 influenza season. Retrieved from https://www.cdc.gov/flu/about/burden/2019-2020.htmlJackson, L. A., Neuzil, K. M., Yu, O., Benson, P., Barlow, W. E., Adams, A. L., & Thompson, R. S. (2003). Effectiveness of pneumococcal polysaccharide vaccine in older adults. New England Journal of Medicine, 348(18), 1747-1755. https://doi.org/10.1056/NEJMoa022678Oxman, M. N., Levin, M. J., Johnson, G. R., Schmader, K. E., Straus, S. E., Gelb, L. D., & Shingles Prevention Study Group. (2005). A vaccine to prevent herpes zoster and postherpetic neuralgia in older adults. New England Journal of Medicine, 352(22), 2271-2284. https://doi.org/10.1056/NEJMoa051016
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.