What is Hospice?
Hospice is a concept of caring for the terminally ill that dates back to the 1960's. The founder of modern hospice, Dr. Cecily Saunders, introduced the concept of caring for a patient's physical, emotional and spiritual needs.
With a philosophy of compassion and dignity, Hospice utilizes a team of healthcare professionals and volunteers who provide ongoing support for both patient and thier family.
Focusing on improving the quality of life and not a cure, Hospice attempts to ease the emotional, spirtual and physical pain often associated with a terminal illness.
By recognizing dying as a part of life, Hospice will support the patient and family in maintianing control end-of life choices and throughout the bereavement period.
The Hospice team at Blaire House of Tewkbury is most often made up of the caring nurses and social workers that care for your loved one every day. Our Hospice team recognizes the importance of consistency and provides the same compassionate care.
The Hospice Team:
In meeting the needs of the patient and family, the Hospice team is available 24 hours a day, 7 days a week. Our Hospice team has been specially trained in Hospice care and our philosophy.
- Physicians: Participates in developing the plan of care and oversees the medical regimen.
- Nurses: Provides invidual care focusing on comfort.
- Social Workers: Assits with psycho-social and emotional needs.
- Chaplains: Provides counseling and spiritual guidance.
- Volunteers: Provides support and companionship.
- Bereavment Coordinators: Provides support and counseling for the surviving loved ones for 13 months following death.
The Hosice Admission:
Hospice care is for patients who have terminal illness which is anticipated to result in life expectency of six months or less, as determined by the patient's physician.
The decision to choose Hospice is made in collaboration with the family, physician and the Hospice team.
Once a decision has been made, the patient signs a statement indicating that the goal of the treatment will be palliative care (comfort care), not curative in nature.
The patient is able to continue under the care of his/her own attending pyhsician.
Hospice Volunteer Program: "Your Chance to Give Back"
When a resident is accepted into the Hopsice program, Hospice volunteers will help the resident and their family cope with the stress of a serious illness. They do this through a program of visiting, transportation, talking and other practical help as needed. Hospice volunteers DO NOT do hands on care such as bathing, toileting or give medications.
A volunteer will normally give one to two hours per week of service to the resident and/or family. Visitation is set up at mutually convenient times for the family and volunteer. Hospice volunteers are responsible, caring men and women, many of whom have had a personal experience with a seriously ill relative or friend. They are carefully screened and attend training before they begin volunteering. If you are interested in becoming a Hospice Volunteer, please contact our Social Services department.