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Home Care at the End-of-Life

As families and caregivers, we sometimes find ourselves supporting our loved ones through one of life’s most profound transitions – its end. This is often both physically and emotionally taxing, and is a time when we need support, compassion, and respite. Everyone’s end-of-life experience is unique, and no one should face this journey alone. Indeed, this is a time for family and friends to come together, share meaningful moments, and provide comfort to their loved one and each other.

When your loved one is gravely ill, honest communication is crucial. Discussing their wishes and concerns helps clarify goals of care and ensures their preferences are respected. It also allows family members to express their feelings and support one another. Sometimes, there may be differences of opinion, and these can often be best mediated sensitively by a skilled third party such as an Aging Life Care Professional™. In the dying process, even as physical health declines, fostering emotional and spiritual well-being is key to strengthen connections. Such activities can include reminiscing, sharing stories, listening to music, or simply just being present by holding a hand or sitting by a bedside together.

Although most insurance plans including Medicare cover hospice care, this service does not provide very much hands on physical care. Families either provide the care themselves or private pay for care. When hiring a caregiver in this situation, finding the best match with the right skill sets and empathetic disposition matters. The caregiver should be experienced at recognizing the early symptoms of discomfort including pain, shortness of breath or constipation. Managing these symptoms with the hospice team or palliative care MD can quickly alleviate a loved one’s discomfort, allowing for a more dignified and peaceful experience. It also brings peace of mind to family members who may be anxious during this confusing and distressing time. During the active dying phase, when symptom management becomes more demanding, having a skilled Private Duty Nurse at the bedside can be extremely comforting.

During this emotionally taxing time, it is vital for families to practice self-care by taking time for breaks to sleep, eat, and verbalize feelings so they can better support others.

After a loved one has passed, grieving is natural. Lean on your memories for comfort and remind yourself of the enduring love that remains. As you navigate this journey, the words of Helen Keller come to mind: “What we have once enjoyed deeply we can never lose. All that we love deeply becomes a part of us.”

At Holistic HomeCare Associates, we are experts at supporting families with end-of-life care. With our large roster of skilled caregivers and nurses, we are highly attentive to your loved ones needs, and because our caregivers are privately hired by you, they have task flexibility to meet a variety of specialized care needs. To learn more call 646-240-4888.