"As a hospice nurse, what do you think needs to change in the industry?"
My fingers began flying across the keyboard, typing my reply, as soon as I finished reading those words.
"We need to change respite care," I replied. "I want to open a nonprofit hospice house one day."
Through my eight-year career as a nurse, I have witnessed the challenges faced by caregivers and the need for a better respite experience.
I believe it's time to address the pressing issues
surrounding end-of-life care. "One day" is today & this is
my vision for a better future.
What is respite care?
Respite care provides a temporary break for caregivers who are caring for a loved one with a terminal illness.
In many areas, respite care is only available in facilities, such as nursing homes, where patients are required to stay alone. Many patients and caregivers are uneasy with being unable to stay with their terminally ill loved one. In turn, they refuse respite services. This leads to worsening caregiver stress, burnout, and exhaustion.
The Current Challenge
Our Vision for Respite Care
We believe that respite care should be a holistic and family-centered experience. We envision homes across the country where caregivers can find solace and support while their loved ones receive the care they deserve.
We believe caregivers deserve to be cared for as well.
First things first:
The Basics
We believe that respite care should be a holistic and family-centered experience. We envision homes across the country where caregivers can find solace and support while their loves ones receive the care they deserve.
So.. how do we actually change things?
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Establish
Create
Offer
Encourage
Facilitate
We will work toward acquiring a facility to establish our nonprofit hospice house.
We will create a welcoming environment for patients and their families, ensuring comfort and peace during their stay.
We will go beyond the traditional respite care model by offering rest & relaxation to both patients and caregivers.
We will actively promote family involvement and gathering of loved ones for shared meals and celebrations of life.
Through the opportunity to write letters or leave video messages, we will facilitate lasting memories.
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Celebrate
Support
Awareness
Collaborate
Inspire
We will foster an environment to celebrate the lives of our patients and cherish the moments they have together.
We understand the challenges faced by caregivers. We will offer dedicated resources for them to recharge.
We will actively engage in community outreach, raising awareness & offering grief support.
We will work closely with your healthcare team to ensure seamless coordination of care and a multidisciplinary approach.
By combining compassion, care, and a family-centered approach, we will strive to set a new standard of care.
