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The truth about comfort care

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The Truth About Comfort Care at Shining Light Hospice At Shining Light Hospice, we understand that facing a serious illness is an incredibly challenging experience for both patients and their families. Our mission is to provide compassionate, high-quality care that prioritizes the comfort, dignity, and well-being of those we serve. One of the essential aspects of our care is what we call "comfort care." But what exactly does comfort care mean, and why is it so important? Let’s explore the truth about comfort care. Understanding Comfort Care Comfort care, often associated with hospice care, focuses on alleviating pain and managing symptoms rather than pursuing curative treatments. It is a holistic approach designed to enhance the quality of life for patients who are dealing with terminal or chronic illnesses. The goal of comfort care is to provide relief from the physical, emotional, and spiritual suffering that can accompany serious health conditions. At Shining Light

What qualifies someone for hospice care

Hospice care is a specialized form of medical care designed to provide comfort and support to individuals who are facing the end of life. It focuses on enhancing the quality of life for patients and their families rather than attempting to cure the illness. To qualify for hospice care, several criteria must typically be met: 1. Medical Diagnosis Terminal Illness: The primary qualification for hospice care is a terminal diagnosis. This means that a physician has determined that the patient's illness is incurable, and the patient is expected to live six months or less if the disease follows its usual course. Common conditions leading to hospice care include advanced cancer, heart disease, lung disease, kidney failure, liver disease, dementia, and other progressive, life-limiting conditions. 2. Physician Certification Prognosis Certification: A physician must certify that the patient is terminally ill with a life expectancy of six months or less. This certification is generally provi

Hospice home care what to expect

Here’s a comprehensive guide on  what to expect when starting hospice care at home . When you’re navigating the emotional journey of caring for a loved one with a life-limiting illness, understanding the hospice process can provide comfort and clarity. Hospice Care at Home: What to Expect Admission Process : Once the necessary paperwork is completed and admission orders are received, your loved one is officially enrolled in hospice care. The hospice team collaborates with the patient’s physician and the hospice physician to discuss medical history, current symptoms, and life expectancy. A chaplain and social worker visit to assess emotional, psychosocial, and spiritual needs, which contribute to the personalized care plan. Individualized Care Plan : Your hospice team consists of professionals such as a physician, nurse, hospice aide, social worker, chaplain, and bereavement manager. They arrive one at a time, following a schedule you’ve agreed upon. Their purpose is to support you and

When Was Hospice Founded?

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In the realm of healthcare, the concept of hospice care stands as a beacon of compassion and support for individuals facing life-limiting illnesses. To understand the genesis of hospice care is to delve into a history steeped in humanity and empathy. So, when was hospice founded? The roots of hospice care trace back to ancient civilizations, where hospitality and care for the sick and dying were considered sacred duties. However, the modern concept of hospice as we know it today began to take shape in the 20th century. It was Dame Cicely Saunders, a British physician, who pioneered the modern hospice movement. In 1967, Dame Cicely Saunders founded St. Christopher’s Hospice in London, England, which marked a pivotal moment in the  history of hospice care . St. Christopher’s Hospice was the first facility to combine pain management, symptom control, and holistic support for terminally ill patients, focusing on improving their quality of life rather than solely prolonging it through aggre

Can a Patient Get Better or Recover from Hospice Care?

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At Siena Hospice, we understand that navigating the complexities of end-of-life care can be daunting. Many individuals and families facing terminal illnesses often wonder if there's a possibility for improvement or recovery while under hospice care. In this article, we delve into this commonly asked question to provide clarity and insight into the role of hospice care in the journey towards comfort and quality of life. Hospice care is a specialized form of support tailored to individuals with terminal illnesses, focusing on pain management, symptom control, emotional support, and enhancing overall quality of life. It is designed for patients whose conditions are no longer curable and who have a prognosis of six months or less to live, as certified by a physician. While the primary goal of hospice care is to provide comfort and dignity in the final stages of life, it's essential to address the misconception that hospice means giving up hope or the potential for improvement. In r

Providing Compassionate Pediatric Hospice Care in Las Vegas

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At Shining Light Hospice in Las Vegas, NV, we understand that caring for a child with a life-limiting illness can be an incredibly challenging journey. Our pediatric hospice care services are designed to provide compassionate support and comfort to both the child and their family during this difficult time. Our team of experienced professionals is dedicated to delivering personalized care that addresses the unique needs of children facing serious illnesses. We believe in providing comprehensive support that focuses on enhancing quality of life and ensuring dignity and comfort for every child under our care. Pediatric hospice care at Shining Light Hospice encompasses a range of services, including: 1.Pain and Symptom Managemen t: We prioritize the relief of pain and discomfort through specialized medical interventions and therapies tailored to the child's individual needs. 2.Emotional and Spiritual Support: Our team offers compassionate emotional and spiritual support to both the c

When Is It Time to Call Hospice?

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As loved ones age or face terminal illnesses, families often grapple with difficult decisions regarding their care. One such decision is when to transition to hospice care. Hospice offers specialized medical care focused on providing comfort and support to individuals facing life-limiting illnesses and their families. Knowing when it's time to call hospice can alleviate suffering and ensure patients receive appropriate care tailored to their needs. 1.Declining Health: Hospice becomes an option when a person's health begins to decline significantly due to a terminal illness. This decline may manifest as frequent hospitalizations, increased pain or discomfort, decreased appetite, difficulty breathing, or progressive weakness. These signs indicate that curative treatments may no longer be effective or appropriate, and hospice care can offer relief from symptoms while prioritizing quality of life. 2.Prognosis of Six Months or Less: Hospice care is typically recommended when a physi