November is National Hospice Month
First-hand Observations of Hospice Services
Our family chose the help of Hospice of Arizona when our Mother was in group care during her final months. She was assigned a doctor, nurse, hospice aide, social worker, chaplain, pharmacist, bereavement counselor, and volunteers...all trained, caring professionals. Durable medical equipment, medications, oxygen and medical supplies to make Mom safer and more comfortable were also provided without charge. Hospice of Arizona accepts most private insurance and is a Medicare and Medicaid licensed provider. Both Medicare and Medicaid provide 100% coverage for care related to the terminal illness. As a family, we appreciated the competent and dignified manner in which our Mother's final days were spent.
Our family chose the help of Hospice of Arizona when our Mother was in group care during her final months. She was assigned a doctor, nurse, hospice aide, social worker, chaplain, pharmacist, bereavement counselor, and volunteers...all trained, caring professionals. Durable medical equipment, medications, oxygen and medical supplies to make Mom safer and more comfortable were also provided without charge. Hospice of Arizona accepts most private insurance and is a Medicare and Medicaid licensed provider. Both Medicare and Medicaid provide 100% coverage for care related to the terminal illness. As a family, we appreciated the competent and dignified manner in which our Mother's final days were spent.
If a terminally-ill loved one is to be released from the hospital, arrangements can be made with a Hospice for long-term care. Dietary counseling, physical, respiratory and speech therapy, short-term inpatient care for acute symptom management, and respite care for caregivers are also included.Many don't realize that such help is available, but they are there when you need them. Merely call to find out more, or log on to their websites.
Hospice Follows Up with Families In the months following her death, several letters from Hospice of Arizona were received, inviting us to obtain bereavement counseling and support.
Within a year of our Mother's passing, we received an invitation to honor her memory at Hospice of Arizona's new headquarters. From contributions made to Hospice of Arizona in our Mother's name, a plaque was prepared for us to place on their Giving Tree. Mom's plaque read, "Norma F. Edwards - 'Mom' - in our hearts forever." My Sister and I attended the ceremony, and were touched by the warm and caring people who conducted the program. About 40 from other families like ours were also present to honor their loved ones. Music, prayer and refreshments were provided.
Families and friends have availed themselves of Hospice services, and I sincerely recommend you consider such a compassionate option. "November is National Hospice and Palliative Care Month. It's a time to take stock of our own lives, to think about how we're making every day count. Are we devoting our energies to worthwhile endeavors?" (Susan Levine, Executive Director, Hospice of the Valley).
No comments:
Post a Comment