Month: October 2024

Why Does Hospice Not Want You to Call 911 Before Calling the Hospice Provider?

Hospice care focuses on comfort rather than curative treatments. In emergencies, calling 911 can lead to invasive procedures and disrupt hospice care. This article explores why contacting your hospice provider first is crucial and offers guidance on alternatives to calling 911.
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Pulmonary Fibrosis: A Guide for Caregivers

pulmonary fibrosis
If you are caring for a loved one with pulmonary fibrosis, you may have many questions and concerns about their condition and how to support them best. You may also feel overwhelmed, stressed, or isolated by the challenges and responsibilities of caregiving. You are not alone. Many people face similar situations and emotions when caring for someone with chronic and progressive lung disease. This article will help you understand pulmonary fibrosis and how it affects your loved one and yourself. It will also provide practical and helpful information on providing the best care for your loved one and yourself.
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How to Find a Care Facility for Your Loved One with Dementia When You Feel Out of Options

Caring for a loved one with dementia in rural areas can be challenging when local care facility options are limited. This guide explores alternatives, such as contacting organizations like the Alzheimer's Association, considering different facility types (adult day care, long-term care, respite care, memory care), seeking financial assistance, evaluating hospice eligibility, and assessing life plan/continuing care communities. It also addresses the legal and ethical implications of using hospitals as a last resort.
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Understanding Emergency Admissions in Hospice

Daughter And Staff Around Dying Elderly Woman
Emergency admissions in hospice provide rapid care for patients nearing the end of life. This process involves quick referrals, expedited assessments, and immediate provision of necessary equipment and medications. Hospice teams work efficiently to ensure patients receive comfort and support during this critical time.
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Best Practices for IDG Meetings in Hospice Care

hospice care team infographic
Hospice care is about providing compassionate support and comfort to patients during their end-of-life journey. Interdisciplinary Group (IDG) meetings ensure the highest quality care for hospice patients and their families. These meetings bring together a diverse team of professionals to discuss patient care plans, address concerns, and collaborate on providing holistic support. However, these meetings can sometimes become overwhelming and time-consuming. Let's explore some best practices to make the most of IDG meetings while keeping patient-centered care at the forefront.
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A Summary Review of the Twelve Known Types of Dementia

dementia types
This article summarizes the twelve known types of dementia, which are the most common and well-studied forms of this condition. You will learn about the signs and symptoms of each type, how they are diagnosed, what causes them, and how they are treated. This article is intended for family members and caregivers of people with dementia who may want to understand more about the condition and how to support their loved ones.
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Navigating the Stormy Waters of Dementia-Related Aggression

Explore the complex world of dementia-related aggression and learn how to identify its underlying causes. This comprehensive guide offers insights into medication-related issues, pain management, and non-pharmacological interventions. Discover compassionate care strategies to support patients and caregivers on this challenging journey.
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Unveiling the Complexities of SSRIs: Half-Life, Risks, and Misconceptions

antidepressant side effects
Dive into the world of Selective Serotonin Reuptake Inhibitors (SSRIs) and their role in treating depression. Discover the importance of medication half-life, the risks of serotonin syndrome, and why the chemical imbalance theory of depression is being challenged. Learn about the concerns of overprescription in older adults.
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How Hospice Patients Can Access Emergency Care Without Losing Their Benefits

nursing staff wanting to help patient who refuses
Hospice care focuses on comfort, not curing illness. But what if an emergency arises? This guide explains when hospice covers emergency care, how to proceed, and how hospice services continue during/after hospitalization - ensuring you make informed decisions without losing benefits.
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When It’s Time for Hospice in Dementia Care

This article provides a compassionate guide for families and caregivers of individuals with dementia. It aims to offer insight into the progression of dementia and how to recognize when it may be time to consider hospice care. This article seeks to empower you with knowledge and understanding so you can make informed decisions that honor the dignity and comfort of your loved one.
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Estimating Dementia Stages Without a Diagnosis

dementia umbrella showing many types of dementia
This article is like a flashlight in the dark. It’s here to shine a light on the path ahead, even when we don’t have all the answers. We’ll talk about how dementia can affect people differently and share some common signs that can help you guess what stage your loved one might be in.
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