At first facing a death can feel overwhelming. Living without our loved one may seem unimaginable. Our grief can consume us and the idea of moving beyond our pain may feel impossible. In the midst of sorrow our own needs may be the last thing we want to think about. We may feel lost or…
My dad was in hospice care. He was conscious but weakening daily. As death approached, we kept a death watch. Yet, one night, my dad suggested that we all go to sleep. He seemed to be a bit stronger, so we agreed. Unfortunately, he died quietly in his sleep that night. My sister was deeply…
HFA recently profiled end-of-life care innovations during a continuing education course, Improving Dying, which showcases exceptional care programs that are enhancing care for patients, families, and even entire communities. These special programs go the extra mile to provide excellent patient care, ease caregiving and grief, and raise public awareness of the humanity and dignity that…
Palliative care defined In broad terms, palliative care is any treatment or intervention intended to control pain or other distressing symptoms. In the context of hospice, palliative care focuses on quality of life rather than curing disease. All hospice care is palliative in that the focus is on controlling distressing symptoms, but not all palliative…
Hospice volunteers are an integral part of the hospice team. Watch this 5-minute video to hear personal experiences of hospice volunteers at Hospice of Michigan. Are you ready to become a hospice volunteer?
When I speak or counsel people about grief, I am often asked questions such as: How long do you think he will stay in the anger stage? When do you think I will finally accept my loss? Questions such as this are based on what is called a “stage model” of grief. Early on in…
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A few years ago, a student complained to me that her mother was prescribed medication to help cope with the death of her husband. She was outraged, stating that her mother should not and could not hide from her grief by taking medication. Expecting that I would readily agree with her, she asked my opinion,…
Aviso importante: Esta es una descripción general de algunos de los síntomas que pueden experimentar las personas al final de su vida. Aunque en cada experiencia individual influyen diferentes factores, como enfermedades y medicación, hay algunos cambios físicos comunes en este momento. En algunos casos, el proceso de morir puede durar semanas, y, en otros, puede tomar…
Grief and loss can dramatically affect the workplace. Whether you are returning to work after a loss or supporting a bereaved coworker or employee, consider these helpful strategies and best practices. Returning to work after loss Bereavement-leave policies range from generous to inadequate, depending on the employer. Many employees feel they must return to work…
Grief does not have a predictable timeline or set of expectations. Nor does it come with a “script” that caring family members and friends can follow to comfort the bereaved. But there are steps you can take to provide compassionate support.
Options are available for patients and families who are dissatisfied with the quality of their hospice care. Please note that HFA does not have the authority to monitor or regulate hospice providers and is unable to assist with individual hospice care complaints.
Whether you’re a patient, family member, or a friend trying to determine whether hospice is the right choice, HFA is here. We provide guidance before, during, and after the important decisions are made.
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