THE ROLE OF HOSPICE HAS CHANGED
September 12, 2017Healthy Aging During World Alzheimer’s Month
September 25, 2017When a terminal illness is shortening a person’s life, every minute, every hour, every day is important. Time should be important to everyone, but daily “normal” life is filled with work, school, tasks, appointments, etc., until “time” can get lost in all the hurry-scurry of an abundance of activities. When a person is looking at the last six months of life, or a shorter timeframe, time and quality can take on much different meanings.
Many people, when facing life’s toughest decision, would prefer to choose to spend their remaining days at home, with loved ones around them and in familiar surroundings. The care of hospice staff ensures that can happen. They are available every day to provide pain management and support to family members. They can also have medications and any needed medical equipment delivered directly to the home. If situations arise when acute care is needed for the short-term outside the home, Pacifica House can provide a “home-like environment” with around-the-clock care delivered by registered nurses. A variety of innovative therapies can also be incorporated to enhance the patient’s care while there. These include:
- Music therapy
- Pet therapy
- Aromatherapy
- Reiki therapy
- Massages
A patient can be treated at Pacifica House until an acute symptom has been alleviated and he/she is able to return to their own home. It is the only short-term facility of its kind located in northern San Diego.
PALLIATIVE CARE
Hospice services are built on palliative care, where the primary focus is on relieving pain and other symptoms, as well as helping patients handle the anxieties that often surround the final stages of life. Our specially trained physicians help to optimize the quality of life for patients, working to prevent and treat suffering.
When every single day matters, utilize the services of Hospice of the North Coast. They can help you and your loved one make the most of every day.