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Tips to Help Your Loved One Prepare for Hospice

Supporting a loved one while they transition into hospice care can be a difficult and emotionally demanding time. At times, both the patient entering hospice and family may feel overwhelmed as they accept that the end of life is near. As your loved one begins hospice care, you’ll want to find ways to help them prepare and ensure all your loved ones’ wishes are met. Continue reading our blog for tips to support your loved ones as they prepare for hospice care.

Encourage Questions

Hospice care will most likely come with many unknowns, which is why it’s important to ask questions. As uneasiness and anxiety creep into the picture, remind your loved ones that their doctors and nurses are there to comfort and provide answers. Caregivers and family members should also remember to ask questions. The hospice community provides a team of experts to help decrease pain and anxiety.

Involve a Therapist

Regular therapy sessions are a great tool to help you and your loved one understand the emotions you’re all feeling. As negative feelings come to the surface, many try to suppress those feelings as our society tells us to focus on ‘the positives’. This thought process can cause further pain and emotional burnout. Counselors understand the grieving process and every emotion that comes with it. Involving a therapist from the beginning will be an important tool as your loved one and family cope during this emotional and difficult time. In addition, our hospice team includes a chaplain and social worker to provide emotional and spiritual support.

Ensure Patient Comfort

Creating a comforting environment for your loved ones is essential as they transition into hospice care. Start by placing photos around their bed of friends and family and lighting their favorite scented candle. If your loved one is still able to communicate, talk with them about what they would prefer their space to be like. Do they want complete silence or their favorite music playing? Dim lighting or open blinds? Since they will likely be in bed for most of each day, ensuring your loved one is comfortable will make a difference.

Whether you or a loved one are reaching the end of life, it’s a precious time. But with a comforting support system and some helpful tips, you can approach this challenging time with more confidence. The professionals at Triniti Home Health & Hospice will be here for you every step of the way. Should you have questions about our hospice services or want to learn more, contact us today.