Celebrating the angels of end-of-life care

The National Hospice and Palliative Care Organization (NHPCO)has declared each November as National Hospice Palliative Care month to increase community awareness and celebrate the dedicated team of interdisciplinary caregivers who provide comfort to the dying and support to their loved ones.

The public has a general knowledge and appreciation of the hospice/palliative care side of healthcare but it’s just a nice thought until personally faced with a loved one’s imminent departure from life. I know, I’ve been there like so many other families.

Palliative care is comfort care. Pain is real whether it is physical or mental. Helping the resident manage and express his or her pain is part of the caregiver’s mission. The community needs to be aware and educated about the importance of palliative care. The NHPCO website provides resources to assist in this educational process.

Doctors, nurses, social workers, therapists, health aides and spiritual counselors all take a meaningful role in the patient’s and family’s final days and moments together. With their expertise and therapeutic skills, hospice staff helps to preserve quality of life and dignity for patients and prepares and supports families in making their final farewells.

This is a great time to recognize the hospice providers that you work with. It’s also a great time to remember that hospice techniques are appreciated by all residents. Take time to touch someone’s hand, pay a compliment or give a genuine smile. Caring is an important part of caregiving.

Related article: NHPCO: Pain is not a complaint

Sandra Hoban

Sandra Hoban was on I Advance Senior Care / Long-Term Living’s editorial staff for 17 years. She is one of the country’s longest-serving senior care journalists. Before joining Long-Term Living, she was a member of the promotions department at Advanstar Communications. In addition to her editorial experience, Sandi has served past roles in print and broadcast advertising as a traffic and talent coordinator.