Cornerstone Caregiving-Mobile

What is Palliative Care?Palliative Care is an integrated life quality improvement program that includes physical, mental, and spiritual assistance. Palliative Care sometimes transitions to Hospice Care if ongoing treatment is proven unsuccessful. Hospice is a bedside service for care recipients nearing end-of-life. This type of care is focused on providing relief from the symptoms and stress of the illness. Keeping the Patient Comfortable is the Goal  The goal is to improve quality of life for both the patient and the family.  During the final stages of a seniors life, palliative care is needed before and during hospice care to bring mental, physical, and spiritual comfort.  A caregiver can work alongside the hospice care provider to fill in the gaps and be there around the clock.What to Expect:  When you or your loved one has been diagnosed with an advanced serious illness that shortens life expectancy, or a terminal illness diagnosis with an unsure timeline, a pallative care home healthcare agency can be available to help relieve stress and provide comfort. Examples of Palliative Care:Food & Drink: Administer food, a drink of water, or just provide ice chips to soothe thirst.Temperature Control: Monitor the temperature for optimum comfort whether it be lowing or raising the air conditioner/heater or providing a blanket.Music & Reading: To keep mental awareness by reading a story or scripture verse as well as playing soothing music.Incontinence Service: Preserving dignity for those who hesitate to ask, but need assistance with this personal matter.Bedside Comfort: To provide 24/7 companionship with a hand to hold, a calm presence and a comforting word.Hospice Help: To fill in the Hospice nurse on any latest developments and needs.Medicine Reminders: Make sure that the proper medications and dosage that is required by their physician are administered.Palliative Care can help give additional support and more control over your care and will improve your quality of life.This article was submitted by Cornerstone Caregiving located in Mobile and Daphne, AL.  You may reach them at 251-444-4010.