Health Tips by Myra: A Vital Question Today, I spoke with old friends who are awaiting the imminent death of another friend and hospice placement. The news came as a surprise; she didn’t want anyone to know which was her right and privilege. However, the family had not prepared for the next steps. She is currently in the hospital before going to hospice. I asked the family a simple question that needs to be discussed in every situation when facing the death of a loved one. And too often, it isn’t. They were preparing to leave for the night, and I asked them, “Are you okay if she dies and nobody is with her?” The question gave them pause, and the response was “Wow”! We discussed this, and they were okay if they were not with her. There is no right or wrong answer here. Some people choose to die alone, even in a coma. My mother-in-law was in a coma, but when we left her in hospice for dinner (the first time in 5 days), she was still breathing well, was comfortable, and did not appear to be “close.” We promised we would all be back after dinner. As soon as we finished eating, we got the call. We think she realized we were all together and spared us being with her when she took her last breath. She had made the decision. And we were okay. Some people don’t want to be alone and want a loved one to hold their hand; others prefer to be alone. Talk about it with your loved ones. Be at peace. #beprepared #patientadvocacy
Myra Katz PA-C, BCPA’s Post
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What makes a good death? This is a question that many people prefer not to think about in their day-to-day lives. However, for patients facing an uncertain future, it is an extremely relevant reality. The answer can vary from person to person, depending on individual personalities, interests and desires. However, for most people, a good death is quite simple. It means being physically comfortable, at peace in your own home, surrounded by your loved ones doing the things you love to do up until the very end. These essential details are made possible by hospice care. Read More: https://lnkd.in/gkUP7zYz #HospiceCare #HospiceSupport #HealthAdvocacy #HospiceAwareness
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#NationalSocialWorkMonth continues! As hospice and palliative care professionals know well, social workers are a vital part of the hospice care team. In the comments, share a story of how a social worker on your team was able to support the patients and families you serve. #EmpoweringSocialWorkers
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#BlogPost Life is a profound journey, however, there may come a time when individuals and their families confront the profound difficulties that come with life-limiting illnesses. It's during this emotionally charged time that comprehensive care, such as in-home hospice care, can provide the necessary support families need. Find out more by visiting https://lnkd.in/gR_MmakE ⬅️ #BonitaSpringsHealthcareServices #homecare #homehealth #hospicecare #palliativecare #rehabilitation #residentialhomecare
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Navigating end-of-life decisions can be overwhelming. Our consulting sessions provide clarity and support for individuals facing this challenging phase. Whether you're making tough decisions or need objective guidance on hospice care, Randy is here to help. Book your session today and gain peace of mind: randy@hospitiumusa.org. #EndOfLifeConsulting #HospiceDecision #CaregiverSupport #HospitiumUSA #HospitiumMediaLLC #HospitiumConsulting #RandalSalyerRN
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The assisted dying bill is being laid before the Scottish Parliament, marking a significant moment in the ongoing debate on end-of-life care and individual autonomy. As discussions unfold, it is crucial to consider the multifaceted nature of assisted dying, including the emotional and legal impact on individuals and their families. Having personally handled relief from forfeiture actions in cases of assisted dying, I have witnessed firsthand the complex and often misunderstood challenges faced by families in such situations. The emotional toll on loved ones, coupled with the legal intricacies of navigating relief from forfeiture actions, underscores the need for empathy and understanding in these delicate circumstances. Organisations like Dignity in Dying advocate for the legalisation of assisted dying, emphasising the importance of individual autonomy and compassion in end-of-life decisions. They highlight the need for robust legal frameworks that protect vulnerable individuals while providing compassionate options for those facing terminal illness and extreme suffering. The current debate on assisted dying reflects evolving societal attitudes towards end-of-life care and personal autonomy. By sharing personal experiences and insights, we can foster a deeper understanding of the emotional and legal complexities involved, ultimately paving the way for more informed and compassionate discussions on this important issue. Should we legalise assisted dying? Kate Goold Bindmans #privateclient #criminallaw #assisteddying
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Talking about the end of someone's life is never easy, is it? But you know, if you're in the healthcare field, you've got this super important role in helping folks and their families get through these tough times. So, let's chat about hospice care. You might have heard some people say it feels like throwing in the towel, but that's not the deal at all. Hospice is all about making sure someone's as comfortable as they can be, focusing on keeping pain and other nasty symptoms in check. Plus, it's not just about the physical stuff – it's about emotional and spiritual support too, for both the person who's ill and the people who love them. And the cool thing? This care can happen right at home, in a hospice place, or even in a nursing home. Now, about those end-of-life choices. In some places, there's this thing called "Death with Dignity" laws. They're for adults with serious illnesses who meet certain conditions, and they can get a prescription to help them pass away peacefully on their own terms. It's a pretty heavy subject, and that's where hospice can step in to help. They've got the info and can get those heart-to-heart conversations going so everyone can figure out what's best. Let's discuss how we can better support patients and families facing end-of-life decisions. #HospiceCare #DeathwithDignity #EndOfLifeCare #Healthcare Please share your thoughts and experiences in the comments!
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Navigating end-of-life decisions can be overwhelming. Our consulting sessions provide clarity and support for individuals facing this challenging phase. Whether you're making tough decisions or need objective guidance on hospice care, Randy is here to help. Book your session today and gain peace of mind: randy@hospitiumusa.org. #EndOfLifeConsulting #HospiceDecision #CaregiverSupport #HospitiumUSA #HospitiumMediaLLC #HospitiumConsulting #RandalSalyerRN
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It can be overwhelming to have a loved one in hospice care, but there are some things you can do to help make it a better experience for all involved. 🤝 Be present: This is sometimes easier said than done, but simply being there for your loved one can be extremely comforting, whether it's holding their hand, having a conversation, or just sitting quietly together. 🤝 Listen and validate: Encourage your loved one to share their feelings and worries, and let them know that it's okay to feel the way they do. 🤝 Respect their choices: It's important to respect your family member's wishes, whether it's regarding medical treatment, end-of-life decisions, or personal preferences. There is a lot to navigate, but we are here to help. Please reach out to Hospice Promise if you need any support.
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Hospice care plays a vital role in providing comfort, dignity, and support to individuals and families facing life-limiting illnesses. Hospice use prevalence among Medicare beneficiaries was highest in Utah (60.7%) and lowest in New York (24.7%), showing geographic variation. 💲 Expenditures for the Medicare hospice benefit skyrocketed 🚀 from $2.2 billion in 1998 to $22.4 billion in 2020, indicating increasing demand. However, access to these services can be challenging due to various barriers, including reimbursement issues and misconceptions about hospice care. At our associations, we are committed to advocating for policies and initiatives that improve access to hospice care, ensuring that every individual has the opportunity to receive compassionate end-of-life care. 🌎 We are working towards a future where hospice care is accessible to all who need it. #hospice #hospicecare #homehealth #hospicecareagency #medicare #dignity #virginia #healthcare
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"There is no “if” in dying – only “when.” Yet we act like (and/or pretend) we will live forever." Barbara Karnes, RN and Hospice educator. In fact, if you follow me on LI you have probably seen her posts as well, amazing nurse and death advocate. She does go on to say that people rarely tell their loved ones of their dying wishes, and almost as rarely get their documentation in order. That's why I created The Death Book. A subtle reminder that yes, death is coming. you cannot change it or avoid it. And, being the thoughtful person you are, wouldn't it be nice to have your documents together if something awful happens tomorrow? The Death Book now contains two ESSENTIAL Documents 1. Health Care Directive 2. Financial Power of Attorney. **Watch for my next post and I will explain the importance of both documents.** Message me if you want one. Cost is $30.00. Not a lot for peace of mind. For your loved ones especially.
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