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Though no one wants to think about it, dying is inevitable. Assume that every day may be your last and live it as fully as possible.
Though no one wants to think about it, dying is inevitable. You will eventually die, without the luxury of having an expiration date stamped on yourself to remind you. Assume that every day may be your last and live it as fully as possible.
All of us should plan our final chapter as soon as possible. Plan to give your family an easy-to-understand game plan for whatever may come up clinically in that last chapter of your life.
Plan now. You have information to gather and choices to make. If you get lucky, your end will be peaceful. If you’re not one of the lucky few, because you did not plan, you will likely leave your family in turmoil and with a complicated and messy grief process. Or, have decisions made for you by hospital staff members who don’t even know you. Hoping for the best is not a solution. Therefore, you need to choose a health care agent to make decisions for you if there comes a time when you are no longer able to speak and advocate for yourself, due to injury or serious illness.
You need to choose how you feel about quality of life versus quantity, when faced with medical choices. You need to be informed about life-sustaining interventions that can keep you alive, like cardiopulmonary resuscitation (CPR), intubation or ventilator use, dialysis, artificial nutrition and hydration (tube feeding, IV), pain management and overall comfort care. You can even leave instructions about your grooming, personal care and music choices. And, you may revisit your decisions, or choice of agent, anytime and change them by filling out a new form, called a HealthCare Proxy, and/or revoking the original one. You matter, and this is your “show”, so you should be setting the stage.
Do you know what all these medical interventions mean? And their implications? Most people do not, and neither do their family members or close friends. So, educate yourself now by discussing care options and their benefits, or limitations, with your physician and/or your faith leader and ask for guidance in making choices and declaring goals. Evaluate the information and choose which options are right for you and reflect your values, beliefs and goals.
Now, set about choosing a health care agent. You can, and should, authorize someone close to you to serve as your healthcare surrogate (agent) to make decisions for you if you become incapable of making them for yourself. Identify a person to serve as your agent and make sure this person understands your goals and values. Have a detailed and honest conversation with any candidate you are considering becoming your agent to make sure that they are willing to take on this responsibility to act under pressure. This will prevent confusion and conflict at a critical and emotionally loaded time and will ensure that your voice is heard, and your wishes are respected. Don't take it personally if that "chosen" person is not willing to take on this role. Not everyone is capable of making decisions for you based solely on your directives. Select and approach someone else, always considering their emotional makeup and ability to make complex decisions in a time of crisis.
If you are estranged from your family, consider reconciliation and healing. If that is not possible, consider identifying a neighbor, a faith community friend, or even an elder care attorney to speak on your behalf, should you no longer be competent to direct your own care. You may also appoint an alternate agent to decide for you if your health care agent is unavailable or unable to act when decisions must be made.
It is imperative that you share your decisions, not just with your identified agent(s), but with all others among your family and friends, so that they will be supportive of your game plan. Set the stage in a comfortable space, gather your family, and share your plan and wishes openly and transparently. Address emotions, including your own, and mediate the objections, disagreements, confusion and pain with this select group of family or friends who might be with you at the end.
Postponing the planning of your end of life will not postpone the reality that it will happen. Many can speak from experience, having done this themselves and having assisted others who procrastinated. There is an additional benefit that comes from planning ahead: Peace of mind. It’s a gift to yourself, as well as to your survivors. They will not have to guess whether they did right by you. They honored your wishes. You will breathe easier knowing you orchestrated your own last chapter.
What might otherwise be a nightmare for your family, can instead be a “good” death for you and allow for a normal grieving process for your family.
Here are some suggestions for accessing and downloading the relevant documents in which to name your Health Care Agent. These legal forms will need to be witnessed by two people other than your designated surrogate (agent), but need to be notarized in a select few states, only.
Five Wishes, a document by Aging with Dignity, meets the requirements of the law in 42 states.
Individual state-specific Health Care Proxy form.
When it comes to caring for loved ones, families in Colorado Springs want more than just medical attentionthey want compassion, connection, and confidence that their loved ones are safe at home. Thats exactly what Homewatch CareGivers of Colorado Springs delivers through their home health and hospice care services.With a team of skilled professionals and caregivers who truly understand the needs of seniors, Homewatch CareGivers helps individuals maintain independence while receiving personalized medical and emotional supportright where they feel most comfortable.Visit Homewatch CareGivers of Colorado Springs on Seniors Blue Book What Home Health & Hospice Care Means for FamiliesHome health and hospice care are both about bringing care homebut each serves a different purpose.Home health care focuses on helping seniors recover from illness, surgery, or manage chronic conditions under the supervision of skilled nurses and therapists.Hospice care, on the other hand, centers on comfort and quality of life for individuals with terminal illnesses, ensuring dignity and peace during lifes final stage.Homewatch CareGivers offers both types of support, providing seamless transitions and holistic care tailored to each persons physical, emotional, and spiritual needs.Personalized Home Health Care ServicesHomewatch CareGivers of Colorado Springs provides a wide range of home health services designed to help seniors live safely and comfortably in their own homes.Their skilled professionals work closely with physicians and families to create a customized plan that meets each clients goals and medical requirements.Key Home Health Services Include: Skilled nursing care for medication management, wound treatment, and vital sign monitoring Physical, occupational, and speech therapy to promote recovery and independence Post-surgical support for smooth healing at home Chronic illness management, including diabetes, heart disease, and COPD Education for families and caregivers on daily health routines and preventive care This approach helps reduce hospital readmissions, promotes recovery, and allows seniors to regain confidence in their day-to-day lives.Hospice Care: Compassion and Comfort at HomeWhen a loved one faces a serious or life-limiting illness, hospice care becomes a source of strength for both the patient and their family.Homewatch CareGivers partners with hospice professionals to ensure patients receive compassionate end-of-life care that focuses on comfort, dignity, and emotional support.Hospice Care Services Include: Pain and symptom management to maximize comfort Emotional and spiritual support for patients and families Coordination with physicians, nurses, and chaplains Respite care for family caregivers Bereavement and grief counseling after loss Hospice care isnt about giving upits about ensuring every moment counts, surrounded by love and comfort.A Local Team That Truly CaresWhat sets Homewatch CareGivers of Colorado Springs apart is their genuine commitment to building relationships. Every caregiver is chosen not just for their skill, but for their compassion and empathy.Their team members see themselves as an extension of the family, offering dependable support that brings both practical help and peace of mind.As John Hastings from the team shares: Our caregivers are not just professionalstheyre companions. We make sure every client feels seen, heard, and respected while receiving the care they deserve. John Hastings, from the Homewatch CareGivers of Colorado Springs team Why Colorado Springs Families Trust Homewatch CareGiversColorado Springs is home to a large and growing senior populationabout 16% of residents are over the age of 65, according to recent U.S. Census data. As families look for trusted, local resources to support aging loved ones, Homewatch CareGivers continues to stand out for their personalized, community-based approach.Heres why local families turn to them: Locally owned and operated: Deep understanding of Colorado Springs community and senior needs Flexible care plans: From short-term recovery to long-term hospice support 24/7 availability: Help is always just a call away Experienced caregivers: Each professional undergoes extensive training and background checks Whole-person focus: Supporting emotional and spiritual wellness, not just physical health Their mission is simple but powerful: to make every day better for the people they serve.Supporting Independence and Dignity at HomeThe ability to stay in ones own home can have a profound effect on a seniors happiness and health. Homewatch CareGivers services promote independence and self-esteem, while providing the right level of support to ensure safety.Their caregivers assist with activities such as: Personal care (bathing, dressing, hygiene) Meal planning and preparation Medication reminders Light housekeeping and errands Companionship and conversation This balance of independence and assistance helps clients maintain control over their daily lives while knowing that compassionate help is always nearby.Partnering with Families Every Step of the WayCaring for a loved one at home can be emotionally and physically demanding. Homewatch CareGivers partners with families to provide guidance, respite, and emotional supportso caregivers can take a breath, rest, and recharge.They understand that families want to be involved. Thats why they maintain transparent communication, regular updates, and collaborative planning with both clients and their families.This family-first approach has earned Homewatch CareGivers a trusted reputation throughout El Paso County and beyond.Local Insight: Aging in Colorado SpringsColorado Springs continues to be one of Colorados most senior-friendly cities, offering a wealth of resources through local organizations such as the Pikes Peak Area Agency on Aging, Silver Key Senior Services, and community-based health programs.Homewatch CareGivers works closely with these and other local partners to ensure families have access to a continuum of carefrom home health and hospice to transportation and wellness programs.This collaboration ensures that no senior or family has to face care challenges alone.Frequently Asked Questions About Home Health & HospiceQ1: What is the difference between home health and hospice care? Home health care focuses on recovery and rehabilitation after illness, surgery, or injury, while hospice care provides comfort and support for those with life-limiting conditions.Q2: Who qualifies for home health or hospice care? Home health requires a physicians order and is typically for those recovering at home. Hospice is for individuals with a terminal diagnosis who choose comfort care over curative treatment.Q3: Are services covered by insurance or Medicare? Yes. Most home health and hospice services are covered by Medicare, Medicaid, and private insurance, depending on eligibility. Homewatch CareGivers can help guide families through the process.Q4: Can hospice care really happen at home? Absolutely. Hospice care is designed to take place wherever the patient calls homewhether thats a private residence, assisted living community, or skilled nursing facility.Q5: How quickly can care begin? Once a physicians referral or family request is received, care can often start within 2448 hours, depending on availability and needs.The Bottom LineFor seniors and families in Colorado Springs, Homewatch CareGivers provides more than just home health and hospice servicesit offers hope, comfort, and connection.Their compassionate caregivers, professional expertise, and local roots make them a trusted partner for families navigating aging, recovery, or end-of-life care.Every visit, every conversation, and every moment of care is centered around one mission: to help people live their best life at homesafely and with dignity.Take the Next StepIf you or a loved one could benefit from home health or hospice care in Colorado Springs, reach out to Homewatch CareGivers of Colorado Springs today to learn more or schedule a consultation. Learn More: Visit their Seniors Blue Book profile
For many families in Longmont, Colorado, the decision to seek home health or hospice care is deeply personal. Its about ensuring that loved ones receive the right level of medical attention and emotional support without losing the comfort and familiarity of home.At 2nd Family Home Care and Support Services, compassionate care is at the heart of everything they do. From skilled nursing and rehabilitation to end-of-life hospice support, their team is dedicated to helping seniors and their families navigate every stage of aging with dignity, comfort, and peace of mind.Visit 2nd Family Home Care and Support Services on Seniors Blue Book What Home Health Care Really MeansHome health care provides skilled medical services at home often following a hospital stay, surgery, or the onset of a chronic illness. Its ideal for individuals who need professional health management but wish to recover or maintain stability in familiar surroundings.2nd Familys licensed clinicians deliver a wide range of medical and therapeutic services, including: Skilled nursing for medication management, wound care, and chronic disease monitoring Physical, occupational, and speech therapy to restore mobility and independence Post-surgical recovery support and education for families Health assessments and ongoing monitoring of vital signs and conditions Their goal is not just clinical improvement its empowering seniors to live safely and confidently at home.Understanding Hospice: Care with Dignity and CompassionWhen a loved one faces a life-limiting illness, hospice care provides comfort, not cure. The team at 2nd Family understands that hospice is about living fully even in the final stages of life.Their interdisciplinary team includes nurses, social workers, chaplains, and trained volunteers, all working together to manage symptoms, provide emotional support, and honor each persons unique journey.Hospice services may include: Pain and symptom management to ensure comfort Emotional and spiritual care for patients and families 24/7 on-call nursing support Bereavement counseling and family support This holistic approach ensures that patients are surrounded by compassion, respect, and love every step of the way.The Importance of Local, Personalized Support in LongmontLocated in the heart of Boulder County, Longmont is home to a growing population of older adults many of whom value independence and staying close to family. According to the U.S. Census, over 17% of Longmonts residents are age 65 or older, a number that continues to grow each year.That means access to trusted home health and hospice providers like 2nd Family Home Care is more important than ever.Their caregivers are not just professionals theyre neighbors, deeply rooted in the Longmont community. This local connection allows the team to respond quickly, coordinate with area hospitals and physicians, and truly understand the needs of Boulder County seniors.Why Families Choose 2nd Family Home Care and Support ServicesFamilies across Longmont consistently praise 2nd Family for their compassionate caregivers, professional excellence, and personal touch. Every care plan is customized to fit each clients physical, emotional, and spiritual needs.Heres what sets them apart: Locally owned and community-focused deeply invested in the well-being of Longmont residents Comprehensive care from short-term home health recovery to long-term hospice support Personalized plans no one-size-fits-all approach 24/7 availability ensuring help is always just a phone call away Experienced medical professionals and caregivers delivering skilled, compassionate care Supporting Families, Not Just PatientsCaring for a loved one at home can be overwhelming, especially for family caregivers balancing work, children, and emotional stress. 2nd Family recognizes this and offers ongoing guidance, education, and emotional support to families every step of the way.As one team member shared: Home health and hospice care arent just about treating symptoms theyre about caring for people. We walk beside families through every challenge and every small victory. Scott McCaskill, from the 2nd Family Home Care and Support Services team This philosophy ensures that caregiving becomes a partnership, where families never feel alone.Integrating Home Health and Hospice ServicesOne of the key advantages of working with 2nd Family is their ability to seamlessly integrate home health and hospice care. Many seniors begin with home health support such as nursing or therapy and later transition to hospice when their needs evolve.This continuity ensures that care remains consistent, compassionate, and centered on each individuals goals and wishes.Local Insight: Aging in Longmont, ColoradoLongmonts commitment to older adults is reflected in its robust senior support network, including the Longmont Senior Center, local Boulder County Area Agency on Aging programs, and faith-based volunteer groups.2nd Family partners with these local resources to help families find additional support from meal delivery and transportation to respite care and social programs.As more seniors choose to age in place, Longmont continues to demonstrate how community collaboration can help older adults live longer, healthier, and more connected lives.How to Know When Its Time for Home Health or HospiceIf youre wondering whether your loved one might benefit from professional support, here are a few signs it might be time:Home Health Care may be right if: Your loved one is recovering from a hospital stay or surgery They need regular monitoring of chronic conditions You notice new challenges with medication management or mobility Hospice Care may be right if: Curative treatments are no longer effective Comfort and quality of life have become the main goals There are frequent hospitalizations or increasing pain and fatigue Talking to your doctor or contacting 2nd Family can help determine which option best fits your situation.Frequently Asked Questions About Home Health & HospiceQ1: Whats the difference between home health care and hospice? Home health focuses on recovery and rehabilitation with the goal of improving health and independence. Hospice, on the other hand, provides comfort care for those with a life expectancy of six months or less.Q2: Is hospice care only for the final days of life? Not at all. Hospice can support patients for several months sometimes longer helping families make the most of each day with comfort and peace.Q3: Who pays for home health and hospice services? Most services are covered by Medicare, Medicaid, or private insurance, depending on eligibility and medical necessity.Q4: Can I receive home health and hospice at the same time? Usually not simultaneously, but a patient may transition smoothly from one to the other through 2nd Familys coordinated care.Q5: How quickly can services begin? In many cases, services can begin within 2448 hours after a referral or physicians order is received.The Bottom LineWhen it comes to home health and hospice in Longmont, Colorado, 2nd Family Home Care and Support Services stands out for their compassionate approach, medical expertise, and deep community roots.They understand that home isnt just a place its where love, memories, and dignity reside. With personalized care and a true sense of family, theyre helping seniors live each day with comfort and purpose.Take the Next StepIf you or a loved one could benefit from home health or hospice care in Longmont, reach out to 2nd Family Home Care and Support Services today to schedule a consultation or learn more about their services. Learn More: Visit their Seniors Blue Book profile
Full Hearts Hospice in Aurora, ColoradoWhen facing a serious or life-limiting illness, families want more than medical care they want compassion, understanding, and peace of mind. Thats exactly what Full Hearts Hospice in Aurora, Colorado provides. Their name says it all: every act of care comes from the heart. With a focus on comfort, dignity, and emotional support, Full Hearts Hospice helps families navigate one of lifes most delicate journeys with grace and compassion.What Is Hospice Care?Hospice care is specialized support for people living with a life-limiting illness, focusing on comfort rather than cure. The goal is to manage pain and symptoms while addressing emotional, spiritual, and practical needs for both the patient and their loved ones.Hospice is not about giving up hope; its about shifting hope toward comfort, connection, and peace. At Full Hearts Hospice, the team works to ensure every moment counts, helping patients live their final days surrounded by love, understanding, and respect.The Full Hearts Hospice DifferenceLocated in Aurora, Colorado, Full Hearts Hospice serves families throughout Arapahoe, Adams, and Douglas counties, offering comprehensive hospice services wherever patients call home whether in a private residence, assisted living community, or skilled nursing facility.Their holistic approach blends medical excellence with human compassion, ensuring that patients receive care for the body, mind, and spirit.A Team of Compassionate ExpertsFull Hearts Hospice is made up of a dedicated, interdisciplinary team including:Hospice Physicians and Registered Nurses Overseeing care, managing pain, and coordinating treatment plansCertified Nursing Assistants (CNAs) Providing hands-on personal care and comfortMedical Social Workers Supporting families with emotional and practical needsChaplains and Spiritual Counselors Offering faith-based or non-denominational spiritual supportVolunteers Sharing companionship, stories, and smilesEach team member plays a vital role in ensuring patients receive the highest quality of care in a warm, personalized way.We treat every patient as if they were our own family, shares Anna Stepanyan from the Full Hearts Hospice team.Its about filling each day with comfort, love, and dignity.Why Aurora Families Choose Full Hearts HospiceFamilies in Aurora and surrounding areas consistently turn to Full Hearts Hospice for their personalized, people-first approach. Their care is guided by compassion, communication, and trust.1. Personalized Care for Every JourneyNo two hospice experiences are the same. Full Hearts Hospice creates individualized care plans to meet each patients unique physical, emotional, and spiritual needs. From adjusting medications to playing a patients favorite music, the team pays attention to the small details that bring comfort and joy.2. Support for the Entire FamilyHospice care extends beyond the patient. Full Hearts Hospice supports the entire family unit, providing education, counseling, and respite services to ease the emotional weight of caregiving.3. Local Roots and Community ConnectionAurora is home to more than 50,000 residents over age 65 (U.S. Census, 2024), and that number is growing steadily as more retirees choose to settle in this vibrant, diverse city. With strong community ties, Full Hearts Hospice collaborates with local hospitals, senior living communities, and healthcare providers to ensure smooth transitions and continuous support.4. Always Available, Always CompassionateThe hospice team is available 24/7 to answer questions, provide emergency visits, or simply lend a listening ear. Families never have to face uncertainty alone.Aurora, Colorado: A Caring Community for SeniorsAurora is a city that values connection and inclusion, offering numerous programs for older adults through resources like the Aurora Center for Active Adults and Area Agency on Aging. These programs complement hospice care by encouraging well-being and engagement throughout every stage of aging.Full Hearts Hospice proudly serves this compassionate community, emphasizing local, accessible end-of-life care that families can trust. The organizations commitment to Aurora reflects its belief that everyone deserves to receive care close to home, surrounded by the people and places they love.When Is It Time for Hospice Care?One of the most common questions families ask is: How do we know when its time for hospice?Hospice care is appropriate when a person is facing a life expectancy of six months or less if the illness follows its normal course and when the focus of care shifts from curative treatment to comfort and quality of life.Signs It May Be Time to Consider Hospice:Frequent hospitalizations or emergency room visitsUncontrolled pain or worsening symptomsSignificant decline in mobility, appetite, or communicationIncreased fatigue or withdrawal from daily lifeA doctor recommends comfort-focused careStarting hospice early can actually improve quality of life providing relief, companionship, and emotional support for both the patient and their family.What Hospice Looks Like at HomeMost Full Hearts Hospice patients receive care in the comfort of their own home. The hospice team coordinates every detail from medical supplies and equipment to medication delivery allowing families to focus on what matters most: spending time together.Services include:Regular nursing visits and 24/7 on-call supportMedication management and pain controlPersonal care assistance (bathing, dressing, grooming)Emotional and spiritual counselingVolunteer companionship and respite careThis full-circle approach ensures that care is both comprehensive and deeply personal.Beyond Care: Grief and Bereavement SupportThe journey doesnt end when hospice care concludes. Full Hearts Hospice provides grief support and bereavement counseling for families for at least 13 months following a loved ones passing.Grief looks different for everyone and having compassionate guidance can make all the difference in the healing process. Whether through support groups, phone check-ins, or individual counseling, the hospice team continues to walk alongside families with empathy and understanding.The Heart of Full Hearts HospiceAt its core, Full Hearts Hospice believes in more than just care they believe in connection. Every patient is treated as a whole person, with a life story worth honoring.Hospice is about celebrating life, not just preparing for death, says Anna Stepanyan from the team.We want families to have meaningful moments, filled with laughter, love, and presence.Frequently Asked Questions About Hospice1. What services does hospice provide?Hospice provides comprehensive support, including pain and symptom management, emotional and spiritual counseling, medication and equipment delivery, and bereavement services for families. Its holistic care focused on quality of life.2. Can hospice be provided at home?Yes. Most patients receive hospice care in their own home or residence. Full Hearts Hospice coordinates all necessary supplies and visits, allowing loved ones to remain comfortable in familiar surroundings.3. Is hospice covered by insurance?Hospice is covered by Medicare, Medicaid, and most private insurance plans, which include medications, equipment, and professional visits related to the terminal diagnosis.4. Does hospice mean giving up hope?No hospice is about redefining hope. Instead of focusing on cure, hospice helps families focus on comfort, peace, and meaningful connection during lifes final chapter.5. Who can refer someone to hospice?Anyone can a doctor, nurse, family member, or even the patient themselves. The Full Hearts Hospice team will coordinate with healthcare providers to start care quickly and seamlessly.Why Choose Full Hearts Hospice in AuroraAt Full Hearts Hospice, care comes from compassion not a checklist. Every nurse, aide, and volunteer is dedicated to creating a calm, supportive environment where patients can experience comfort, dignity, and love.Their local presence, personalized care, and unwavering compassion make them one of Auroras most trusted hospice providers.When the time comes to consider hospice, families can trust Full Hearts Hospice to walk beside them with hearts full of empathy and hands ready to help.Connect with Full Hearts HospiceIf you or a loved one are exploring hospice care options in Aurora, Colorado, reach out to the caring professionals at Full Hearts Hospice. Theyll answer your questions, guide you through the process, and provide the compassionate support your family deserves. Learn more or get in touch through theirSeniorsBlueBook.com listingBecause at Full Hearts Hospice, every moment matters and every heart deserves full care.
We know that navigating senior care options can be overwhelming for you and your family. As your advocate, we can do the homework for you.Well help you sort through and understand all your care options, traverse a complex healthcare system, get accurate and up-to-date information, and connect you to vetted local resources. How can we help you make the best choices for your loved one?
We know that navigating senior care options can be overwhelming for you and your family. As your advocate, we can do the homework for you.Well help you sort through and understand all your care options, traverse a complex healthcare system, get accurate and up-to-date information, and connect you to vetted local resources. How can we help you make the best choices for your loved one?
We know that navigating senior care options can be overwhelming for you and your family. As your advocate, we can do the homework for you.Well help you sort through and understand all your care options, traverse a complex healthcare system, get accurate and up-to-date information, and connect you to vetted local resources. How can we help you make the best choices for your loved one?