Coping Strategies for Families of Hospice Patients

When a loved on begins hospice care, it can be overwhelming for families. It’s a journey filled with emotions, challenges, and uncertainties. But amidst the turbulence, there are coping strategies that can offer solace and support to both patients and their loved ones. 

As a trusted hospice provider in Medina, Ohio, we understand the unique needs of families navigating this delicate phase of life. Our compassionate team at Remembrance offers the following strategies for families:

• Educate yourself about hospice care.
  Understanding what hospice care entails can help alleviate anxiety. Familiarize yourself with the services provided, the roles of different members of the hospice team, and what to expect in the coming days and weeks. Understanding these things can help you feel empowered and more capable of making informed decisions.
• Delegate responsibilities.
  Ask for help and be specific with what that looks like. Friends and family often want to support, but they may not know how. Delegating tasks like preparing meals, walking pets, running errands, or visiting with your loved one can offer much-needed relief. Sharing responsibilities can lighten your load while allowing others to feel useful.
• Communicate openly.
  Maintaining open lines of communication with your loved one, family members, and hospice staff is crucial. Encourage honest conversations about feelings, fears, and wishes. This transparency helps prevent misunderstandings and ensures that everyone’s needs and concerns are addressed.
• Practice self-care.
  Caring for a loved one with a life-limiting illness can be physically and emotionally exhausting. Take time for yourself to rest and recharge. Engage in activities like reading, walking, or spending time with friends – things that bring you joy and relaxation. Taking care of yourself is critical to being able to support your loved one effectively.
• Create meaningful moments.
  Focus on enjoying positive experiences with your loved one. Look at photos, share stories, listen to music, read together. These moments don’t have to be exciting or forced. Even sitting together in silence can provide meaningful moments of comfort for you and your loved one.
• Use Hospice Resources
  Most hospice care providers, including Remembrance, offer a wealth of resources. Chaplains, social workers, counselors, and volunteers can provide immense support. Lean into your hospice provider for information on how to take advantage of these services for you and your loved one. They are there to help you navigate this journey.  Our experienced caregivers at Remembrance Hospice are trained to address the physical, emotional, and spiritual needs of patients as well as their families. We work closely with patients and their families to develop personalized care plans that prioritize comfort and dignity. From medication management to music therapy, we offer a range of supportive services to provide holistic hospice care.

Remembrance Hospice provides comfort care, palliative care, and hospice care in Medina, Ohio and surrounding communities. Reach out to us today to learn more.