Choices for Hospice Care for A Loved One

Oct. 11, 2012 - PRLog -- By -Sharon Criscione RN, BSN, CHPN, Clinical Director of Stein Hospice

Throughout our lives we are faced with many situations, some good and some bad. We make choices on how we want to handle them.  Why then do we put off making decisions regarding health care and what we want and don’t want at end of life?  I believe it is because many of us are afraid and don’t want to think about that part of our lives.  We hope when the time comes, someone will make the decisions for us.

I have seen what can happen when you don’t share your wishes regarding health care with someone you love and trust.  They end up not knowing what to do.  Many times they will do what they believe is right, but was it right for you?

Even with a terminal disease, people can live months, sometimes longer.  Two words stand out for me during that time, Dignity and Quality. You have the choice on how you want your final journey to be.  

Hospice allows people with a terminal illness to stay home (home being wherever the person calls home), surrounded by their loved ones and their personal things.  It promotes dignity and respect for the individual and their family.  Being in one’s own home also provides a better quality of life.

The Stein hospice team provides support and comfort while maintaining professional, compassionate care.  To improve quality of life, Stein Hospice offers complementary therapies including: Harp therapy, Pet therapy, Massage therapy, and Yoga therapy, not only for the patient but the family as well.

A decision like this can be difficult. Share your thoughts.  Talk to your doctor, your family or someone you trust.  Talk about choices.  Talk about what is right for you.

For more information on how hospice can help you and your loved one call The Martin and Edith Stein Hospice at 888-313-0369 to have a confidential conversation with our professional staff, or visit us at www. SteinHospiceNJ.org.