Physician Service: Hospice physicians are available to meet general medical needs for symptom and pain control issues. The hospice physician oversees management of the terminal illness and can serve as a resource for the patient’s attending physician. The hospice physician may make home visits when necessary.

Skilled Nursing: Nurses coordinate all services necessary to optimize the patient’s quality of life within the limits of the illness. The nurse will visit as needed; whereas, the frequency will vary depending upon the stability of the patient. A main focus of the nurse is to provide instruction and education to the patient and family regarding the disease process and what can be expected. The nurse will work closely with the patient’s physician to achieve optimal symptom control.

Hospice Aide: Hospice aides provide personal care to the patient and assist him or her with activities of daily living such as bathing (this can be a sponge bath, tub bath, or shower), dressing, feeding, hair care, shaving, and skin care. The aide may also change bed linens. These services are provided based on the patient’s need, recommendations of the hospice nurse, and the plan of care.

Volunteer Services: Hospice of Hope has a wide array of trained volunteers that are available for a variety of needs. Our Volunteer Coordinator works with the team to place a volunteer that best suits the plan of care.

Social Services: Licensed social workers provide counseling and assistance for social, emotional, and economic difficulties that patients and family members may face. The social worker will provide the patient and family with emotional support as they deal with the changes caused by the terminal illness. They will serve as a resource to help find necessary private and community services such as financial assistance, caregiver support, and end-of-life care planning.

Physical Therapy/ Occupational Therapy/ Speech Therapy: The primary goal of hospice is to promote comfort. If your primary nurse feels therapy will be helpful, a visit may be scheduled in coordination with the plan of care.

Chaplain Services: Chaplains are able to dialogue about thoughts, values, and beliefs related to one’s spiritual life journey. They will assist with securing or providing religious resources regardless of faith, tradition, or spiritual content.

Bereavement Counseling: Bereavement counseling is available to anyone affected by the death of a loved one for up to 15 months. This support may be provided through phone calls, mailings, grief counseling, art therapy, memorial services, and other support groups.

Homemaker: Homemakers can assist with light housekeeping needs, meal preparation, or patient companionship to provide respite for the caregiver. Homemaker’s duties can be fulfilled by a hospice aide or a hospice volunteer.