Westlake Hospice Support
When it comes to hospice and end of life care, it is important to be informed. Hospice is not a topic that most people like to bring up. However, having the conversation can be beneficial in order to find the best care option for patients and their families. End of life care comes with misconceptions but Westlake Village works hard to make patients feel comfortable, supported, and at ease during their hospice journey.
Often times people mistake hospice as a place, rather than a philosophy. Hospice is a philosophy that makes patients feel supported and cared for in their own homes. Most people say they would prefer to pass away at home, which is why in-home care at the end of a patient’s life is so beneficial. Hospice meets the specific needs of each individual patient from the comfort of their homes while providing everything they may need, including a hospital bed, medical supplies, medication, and more.
When a patient goes into hospice they must qualify for hospice care. However, a patient can opt out of hospice anytime during their journey. If a patient is not getting what they had hoped to from hospice they can decide to quit at any time. Hospice is not permanent and does not indicate that the patient’s life will definitely end soon.
Hospice Support for Families
During hospice, patients can still see their regular doctor. A basic hospice team includes a hospice nurse, a physician, a social worker, counselor, or chaplain, as well as a volunteer. Depending on the individual needs of the patient, other services may be provided as well. This could include a nutritionist, psychologist, psychiatrist, art therapist, home health aide, speech therapist, massage therapist, or even a physical therapist. Patients may also choose to see their regular doctor during hospice care. Hospice is focused on the needs of the patient, which is why it is important to let patients make their own decisions when it comes to care options.
Hospice is inclusive and is here to meet the needs of an entire family. Sometimes hospice can come with struggles and we recognize how difficult it can be to witness the health decline in the ones we love. Our hospice nurses are experienced and are here to make the hospice journey more comfortable for both the patient and their family. Hospice nurses can help explain what is going on and give families a break.
Hospice often continues after death. Most people do not realize that optional follow up grief support is available for twelve months after the death of a loved one. A hospice support team is available to support families of patients and help them find guidance and closure even after the death of their loved one.
How can I get started with hospice care for my loved one?
Please call us 818-644-5357 to discuss your loved one’s needs and schedule an assessment to determine eligibility and develop a personalized care plan.