OUR STORY We called the local medical team. Then, I contacted the county social worker. There is a Palliocare list of doctors and providers for each state. My mom was on palliative care first and then hospice. I didn't know there were different steps. A nurse came to the house and completed a physical/intake evaluation. My parent's health care covers everything so far. My dad had dementia and my mom was on hospice.
My dad suffered a stroke two weeks ago. Then., he suffered another stroke. It left him bedridden. He was unable to walk and could only mumble. Within a week he was losing more and more strength.
What is Palliative Care according to WebMD?
Definition according to https://getpalliativecare.org/whatis/
Palliative care is specialized medical care for people living with a serious illness. This type of care is focused on providing relief from the symptoms and stress of the illness. The goal is to improve the quality of life for both the patient and the family. Palliative care is provided by a specially-trained team of doctors, nurses, and other specialists who work together with a patient’s other doctors to provide an extra layer of support. Palliative care is based on the needs of the patient, not on the patient’s prognosis. It is appropriate at any age and at any stage in a serious illness, and it can be provided along with curative treatment. WHAT IS PALLIOCARE? Improves Quality of Life Palliative care teams focus on the quality of life. They treat people suffering from the symptoms and stress of serious illnesses such as cancer, congestive heart failure (CHF), chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD), kidney disease, Alzheimer’s, Parkinson’s, Amyotrophic Lateral Sclerosis (ALS), and many more. Relieves Suffering From Symptoms and Stress The goal of palliative care is to relieve suffering and provide the best possible quality of life for patients and their families. Symptoms may include pain, depression, shortness of breath, fatigue, constipation, nausea, loss of appetite, difficulty sleeping, and anxiety. The team will help you gain the strength to carry on with daily life. In short, palliative care will help improve your quality of life. https://getpalliativecare.org/whatis/ Helps You Match Treatment Options to Your Goals The palliative care team also spends the time it takes to help you match your treatment choices to your goals. They will also make sure that all of your doctors know and understand what you want. This gives you more control over your care and will improve your quality of life. Works Together with Your Other Doctors Palliative care teams are specialists who work together with you, your family, and your other doctors. They provide an extra layer of support when you need it most.
How to add Palliative Care and hospice to your Dementia Plan
The benefit of hospice care for dementia: is for the caregiver, family, and patient
When is the Dementia patient eligible for hospice?
The patient can say only a few words
The patient can no longer walk and may be bed-bound
The patient is totally dependent on others for eating, dressing, and grooming
The patient shows signs of severe anxiety
The patient’s neurologist or personal physician may recommend hospice when the time is right.
Please join me as I research and learn how to better care for my elderly parents with Dementia. https://www.facebook.com/groups/276568263823321/
Commentaires