http://thedenverhospice.org/ The Denver Hospice - Blog RSS Feed 2.0 en-us Sun, 08 Mar 2026 10:31:31 GMT Sun, 08 Mar 2026 10:31:31 GMT http://thedenverhospice.org/blog/16242/Welcoming-Kerry-McLaughlin-as-Vice-President-of-Clinical-Services blog At The Denver Hospice, exceptional care begins with strong clinical leadership. We are pleased to welcome Kerry McLaughlin, MS, RN, NEA-BC, CNL, who joins our organization as Vice President of Clinical Services. Kerry brings a wealth of experience in nursing leadership, quality improvement, and professional practice. Her career has been defined by a commitment to building strong clinical teams, fostering shared decision-making, and creating systems that support both caregivers and patients. "Kerry is a leader who understands how to balance high standards with humanity," said Ben Marcantonio, President of The Denver Hospice. "She knows that when clinicians are supported, patients and families receive better, more compassionate care." Most recently, Kerry served as Magnet Program Director /Manager of Professional Practice  at Wellstar Kennestone Hospital, where she led the organization to its first ANCC Magnet® designation — a nationally recognized marker of nursing excellence. Her work included developing system-wide professional governance structures, implementing Lean-based process improvements, and exceeding national benchmarks in patient experience and nurse engagement. "I'm grateful for the opportunity to join an organization so deeply committed to both quality and compassion," Kerry said. "Hospice and palliative care require trust, collaboration, and strong clinical leadership, and I look forward to working alongside teams who share those values." In her role at The Denver Hospice, Kerry will oversee clinical services across the organization, support regulatory compliance and continuous improvement, contribute to strategic planning, and ensure interdisciplinary teams are equipped to meet the evolving needs of patients and families. "Kerry's experience leading complex clinical systems and her passion for professional development will strengthen our organization in meaningful ways," Marcantonio added. "We're excited to welcome her leadership."   Thu, 22 Jan 2026 06:00:00 GMT http://thedenverhospice.org/blog/16242/Welcoming-Kerry-McLaughlin-as-Vice-President-of-Clinical-Services http://thedenverhospice.org/blog/16241/Welcoming-Dr--Julie-Bemski-as-Medical-Director-of-The-Denver-Hospice blog At The Denver Hospice, compassionate care begins with thoughtful leadership. We are pleased to welcome Julienne (Julie) Bemski, DO, who joins our organization as Medical Director beginning January 20, 2026. Dr. Bemski's path to hospice and palliative care reflects a deep respect for the whole person — a philosophy shaped by years of full-spectrum family medicine practice and osteopathic training. After caring for patients across all stages of life, she felt drawn to focus her work on supporting individuals and families navigating serious illness and complex medical decisions. "Julie brings both clinical excellence and a deeply human approach to care," said Ben Marcantonio, President of The Denver Hospice. "She understands that hospice and palliative care are about more than medicine — they're about listening, dignity, and walking alongside people when it matters most." Currently completing a Community Fellowship in Hospice and Palliative Care at the University of Colorado Anschutz Medical Campus, Dr. Bemski brings the most current evidence-based practices to her role while honoring the values that have guided hospice care for decades. "I am incredibly grateful for the opportunity to join The Denver Hospice," said Dr. Bemski. "The mission here resonates deeply with me. Providing comfort, clarity, and compassionate care to patients and families during serious illness is a profound responsibility, and I'm honored to be part of a team so dedicated to that purpose." Prior to joining TDH, Dr. Bemski served as Associate Program Director for the Swedish Family Medicine Residency, where she supervised residents and medical students, led curriculum development, and created initiatives focused on osteopathic medicine, physician wellness, and scholarly activity. "Julie's leadership experience and commitment to education will strengthen not only our clinical programs, but also the support we provide to physicians and care teams," Marcantonio said. "She is a wonderful addition to our organization." As Medical Director, Dr. Bemski will collaborate closely with interdisciplinary teams to guide clinical practice, ensure regulatory excellence, and support the delivery of compassionate, high-quality hospice and palliative care throughout our community. Outside of work, she enjoys hiking Colorado's trails with her father and dog and spending time with her husband and young son.   Thu, 22 Jan 2026 06:00:00 GMT http://thedenverhospice.org/blog/16241/Welcoming-Dr--Julie-Bemski-as-Medical-Director-of-The-Denver-Hospice http://thedenverhospice.org/blog/16115/Congratulations-to-The-Denver-Hospice-South-Team-- blog We're thrilled to share that the South Team has been honored with After.com's Guardian Angel Award, receiving multiple well-deserved nominations for their exceptional quality of care and unwavering compassion. This recognition highlights the heart, dedication, and teamwork our caregivers bring to the community every single day. Huge kudos to the South Team for the extraordinary difference you make in the lives of patients and families—we are so proud to work alongside you!   Wed, 17 Dec 2025 06:00:00 GMT http://thedenverhospice.org/blog/16115/Congratulations-to-The-Denver-Hospice-South-Team-- http://thedenverhospice.org/blog/16004/Reaching-for-the-Moon--Jack-s-Legacy-in-the-Apollo-Missions blog Pictured above: Jack Burman (far left) and the team that helped put humans on the moon, and Jack's Commemorative Certificate for his work on the Apollo missions Meet Jack, an engineer who helped make history. After deciding on a career change while living in Baton Rouge, he packed up, moved to Boulder, and went on to work on several Apollo missions, including Apollo 13 and Apollo 14. Jack was part of the team responsible for the design and implementation of the spacecraft's oxygen tank system. Students of history, and fans of the movie, know that during the Apollo 13 mission one of the spacecraft's oxygen tanks exploded because of damaged wiring insulation. The sudden loss of oxygen and power forced the crew to abort their lunar landing and use the Lunar Module as a lifeboat to make the long journey home. Although Jack's team was not responsible for the wiring insulation itself, he was tasked with investigating exactly what had gone wrong. Carefully examining the detailed records kept by every company involved in the design and installation of the tanks, Jack was able to identify the precise moment and location where the faulty insulation had been created. Although Jack received accolades for his work on other Apollo missions, including a commemorative certificate for the part he played in Apollo 14, he views Apollo 13 as his most remarkable success. The dedication of so many people working together to uncover the cause of the faulty insulation and to ensure that such a problem would never happen again still fills him with pride and awe 55 years later. The experience also reinforced two of Jack's lifelong beliefs: think everything through carefully, and never overlook the small details. Jack's stories offer a fascinating glimpse into one of humankind's greatest achievements. We at The Denver Hospice are honored that he shared them with us and encourage everyone reading this story to think of Jack's remarkable legacy and the part he played in carrying humanity's dreams beyond our own world each time you look up and see the Moon shining above. Thu, 20 Nov 2025 06:00:00 GMT http://thedenverhospice.org/blog/16004/Reaching-for-the-Moon--Jack-s-Legacy-in-the-Apollo-Missions http://thedenverhospice.org/blog/15910/Care-Synergy-Welcomes-Denise-Black-Andersen-as-Medical-Practice-Administrator blog Care Synergy is pleased to announce the appointment of Denise Black-Andersen as its new Medical Practice Administrator. In this role, Black-Andersen will oversee operational management and administrative leadership for hospice, palliative care, and PACE (Program of All-Inclusive Care for the Elderly) services, ensuring quality, compliance, and efficiency across interdisciplinary care teams. Black-Andersen brings extensive experience in healthcare administration, operations, and program development. Most recently, she served as Director of the Oncology Service Line for Intermountain Health's Peaks Region, where she led nine cancer centers and over 230 staff, improving patient access, streamlining workflows, and driving significant financial and operational results. She previously revitalized hospice and palliative care programs at Lutheran Medical Center, doubling census and enhancing patient satisfaction scores. "Denise's proven ability to lead complex healthcare operations, improve patient access, and develop high-performing teams makes her an exceptional addition to Care Synergy," said Tim Bowen, Care Synergy President and CEO. "Her expertise will help ensure our programs deliver the highest quality care while supporting staff and organizational growth." "I am excited to join Care Synergy and contribute to advancing patient care across hospice, palliative care, and PACE programs," said Black-Andersen. "I look forward to working with the team, clinicians, and community partners to enhance access, operational excellence, and outcomes for the people we serve." Black-Andersen holds a Bachelor of Science in Healthcare Administration and an Associate of Applied Science in Healthcare Administration from Pima Medical Institute. She has completed extensive leadership and professional development programs and holds certifications in respiratory therapy and healthcare management. About Care Synergy Care Synergy provides mission-support services for not-for-profit, community-based home healthcare, hospice, and palliative care providers serving the Front Range of Colorado, including Colorado Visiting Nurse Association, The Denver Hospice, Pathways, Pikes Peak Hospice & Palliative Care, and Colorado PACE. Care Synergy affiliate organizations operate as distinct organizations while sharing best practices and helping more Coloradans. For more information, visit www.caresynergynetwork.org. Tue, 21 Oct 2025 06:00:00 GMT http://thedenverhospice.org/blog/15910/Care-Synergy-Welcomes-Denise-Black-Andersen-as-Medical-Practice-Administrator http://thedenverhospice.org/blog/15911/The-Denver-Hospice-and-Colorado-Visiting-Nurse-Association-Announce-Ben-Marcantonio-as-New-President blog Tim Bowen, President and CEO of Care Synergy, along with The Denver Hospice and Colorado Visiting Nurse Association (CVNA) Boards of Directors, are pleased to announce that Ben Marcantonio has been selected as the new President of The Denver Hospice and Colorado Visiting Nurse Association. Marcantonio brings more than 40 years of leadership experience in healthcare, education, and social service organizations. Most recently, he served as Chief Integration Officer for the National Alliance for Care at Home, where he was responsible for integrating operational processes, systems, and departments of two national associations into one unified organization. Prior to that, he held senior leadership roles with the National Hospice and Palliative Care Organization (NHPCO), including Chief Operating Officer and Interim Chief Executive Officer, guiding the organization through strategic planning and a major affiliation process. Earlier in his career, Marcantonio was President and CEO of Hospice of the Chesapeake in Maryland, where he successfully expanded access to care, increased financial stability, and strengthened community-based palliative care services. He also served in leadership positions at San Diego Hospice and The Institute for Palliative Medicine, Scripps Health, and Charter Hospital, and began his career in educational leadership with the Diocese of San Diego. "We are thrilled to welcome Ben Marcantonio as the next President of The Denver Hospice and Colorado Visiting Nurse Association," said Tim Bowen, President and CEO of Care Synergy. "Ben's decades of experience and demonstrated leadership in hospice and palliative care, combined with his deep commitment to serving patients and families, make him an ideal leader to guide both organizations into the future." "After a thorough national search, we are excited to have found a leader of Ben's caliber," said Rodney Rice, Chair of The Denver Hospice Board of Directors. "His extensive experience and passion for advancing hospice and palliative care will serve our patients, families, and the Denver community with distinction." Marcantonio earned a Master of Science in Counseling from San Diego State University, a Master of Education in Administrative Leadership from the University of San Diego, a Bachelor of Sacred Theology from Gregorian University in Rome, and a Bachelor of Philosophy from the University of San Diego. He has served on numerous national and regional boards, including the National Hospice and Palliative Care Organization, Goodwin Living, and The Hospice Alliance. "I am honored to join The Denver Hospice and Colorado Visiting Nurse Association," said Marcantonio. "Both organizations have a strong history of compassionate service to their communities. I look forward to building on that legacy and working with the dedicated teams to ensure patients and families continue to receive the highest quality care." Tue, 23 Sep 2025 06:00:00 GMT http://thedenverhospice.org/blog/15911/The-Denver-Hospice-and-Colorado-Visiting-Nurse-Association-Announce-Ben-Marcantonio-as-New-President http://thedenverhospice.org/blog/14707/When-Does-Medicare-Cover-Hospice- blog When navigating the complexities of end-of-life care, cost can be a burden to many families. Many individuals often find themselves asking, "Does Medicare cover hospice?" The reassuring answer is that Medicare does pay for hospice care, providing significant financial relief during this challenging time. However, it's important to note that Medicare doesn't cover everything, and there are some services that might not be included. A lot of people who qualify for Medicare hospice care don't know that they're eligible. Many often struggle to access other means of payment. Facing hospice care is hard. It shouldn't be the time to be anxious over finances. We have made Medicare coverage for hospice more understandable; now you can easily determine if you or a family member qualifies. Qualify for Medicare hospice benefits The beneficiary is entitled to Medicare Part A, which is hospital insurance. The US Federal Government provides Medicare Part A health insurance to all U.S. citizens; it's also available for legal immigrants who've lived in the U.S for at least 5 years. Medicare Part A covers inpatient care services. To qualify you must have a life expectancy of six months or less if the illness runs its course. However, because diagnoses are not always exact, living longer than six months will not automatically void the beneficiary's cover. Each beneficiary gets an infinite number of supplementary 60-day periods after the first period; so, you can go years on the hospice benefit if the physician believes your expectancy is six months or less. Only the hospice doctor or the beneficiary's regular doctor can legally certify as to the terminal illness of the beneficiary. The beneficiary must sign a statement selecting the hospice benefit; this means foregoing any treatment to cure the illness and electing to receive only palliative care. This means no cutting-edge tests, and no experimental drugs meant to cure the disease. Under the Medicare Hospice benefits, care is to provide relief from the symptoms and stress of the disease. Palliative care is there to address the physical, intellectual, emotional, spiritual, and social needs of the patient and his family. If the beneficiary already lives in a nursing home, Medicare won't pay for room and board; however, they pay for care for the terminal illness. This is often a long process because the nursing home and the hospice providing the care need to sign a contract as to who is responsible for what. To qualify for Medicare hospice benefits, the beneficiary must be willing to receive care from a Medicare-approved hospice provider, and not a privately-run hospice provider. Hospice Services Medicare Covers Medicare hospice benefits help not only the patient but family members as well. Thus, the services that it does cover are wide and extensive. Whether in full or partly, Medicare hospice benefit covers doctor services, nursing care, prescription drugs for pain relief, medical equipment such as walkers and wheelchairs, and physical and occupational therapy services, if needed. Other services that Medicare pays for as per hospice care are dietary counseling, medical supplies, and hospice aide services. Medicare hospice benefits cover social work services, short-term inpatient respite care, and short-term inpatient care to manage pain. Also, Medicare covers grief loss counseling for both the patient and their family. Hospice Services Medicare Won't Cover Knowing what Medicare won't pay for when it comes to hospice care is important. These benefits Medicare won't cover under its hospice benefits. Medicare won't pay for room and board in nursing homes, inpatient hospice houses or assisted living facilities. If you're thinking about treatment to cure illness rather than continue with palliative care, discuss this with your doctor. This treatment will mean an end to Medicare's hospice coverage. Medicare doesn't cover prescription drugs; except when for pain relief and symptom control in the hospital or outpatient facility. Medicare won't pay for care from a provider that wasn't set up by the hospice medical team. As a matter of policy, your care must always be given by your chosen hospice provider. Medicare won't pay for the care unless the hospice team arranges this, or it's not related to your terminal illness. If you need a hospital's inpatient care for your terminal illness, the hospice provider must make the arrangements. Going to the hospital when the hospice provider didn't plan means being personally responsible for the entire cost. The Denver Hospice offers different levels of hospice care. Contact us for more information! Thu, 06 Mar 2025 06:00:00 GMT http://thedenverhospice.org/blog/14707/When-Does-Medicare-Cover-Hospice- http://thedenverhospice.org/userfiles/2638/blog-images/cs%5Ftdh%5Fblog%2Dfeatured%2Dimage%2Dtemplate%2D5%2Ejpg http://thedenverhospice.org/ http://thedenverhospice.org/blog/14950/Pediatric-End-of-Life-Care--Understanding-Approaches-and-Support-for-Families blog Pediatric end of life care encompasses the support and management provided to children with life-limiting conditions. It addresses not only the physical symptoms, but also the emotional and psychological needs of both the child and their family. The goal is to ensure that the child experiences comfort and dignity during their final days, while also providing guidance and support to the family members coping with this difficult transition. When facing a serious illness with a child, the focus is always on their well-being. The main focus of end of life and palliative care for children is on helping children and their families to live as well and fully as possible . However, there may come a time when curative treatment is no longer an option, and the priority shifts to comfort and making the most of the precious time together. Understanding the Unique Challenges of Pediatric End of Life Care Pediatric end of life care presents unique challenges that can be emotionally taxing. Even though your child has not yet passed away, it is also still possible to have similar painful feelings of grief before a loved one has died, especially for those providing care to a person at the end of life. Grief therapists refer to this as anticipatory grief and even though it is a normal process, many people don't recognize it when it occurs. You may feel a sense of helplessness, anger, or guilt. It's important to remember that these feelings are normal, and there is no right or wrong way to grieve. Here are some of the common emotional challenges caregivers may face: Helplessness: Watching your child suffer can be incredibly difficult and may make you feel helpless. You may feel like there is nothing you can do to ease their pain or suffering. Anger: Anger is a common emotion to experience during this time. You may feel angry at the illness, at the doctors, or even at yourself. It's important to remember that these feelings are normal and that it's okay to express them. Guilt: You may feel guilty about your child's illness, especially if you believe that you could have done something to prevent it. It's important to remember that you are not to blame for your child's illness. Fear: The fear of losing your child can be overwhelming. You may also fear that your child will suffer. Grief: Grief is a natural response to loss. It's important to allow yourself to grieve, even if your child is still alive. Remember that these feelings are normal, and there is no right or wrong way to grieve. If you are struggling to cope, please reach out to a therapist or support group. There are many people who care about you and want to help you through this difficult time, including the staff and therapists The Amy Davis Hospice Support Center (built in 2020) with dedicated children's and family counseling areas. What Children & Their Families Need When Navigating Pediatric End of Life Care Support for pediatric end of life care situations encompasses essential emotional and physical support for the child and family, along with ensuring there is a personalized plan in place for that specific family. Palliative care is based on need, not prognosis. Both aspects play a critical role in the emotional and psychological healing process. Providing Emotional and Physical Support As a caregiver, it's important to seek out resources that can help you provide both emotional and physical support for your child and your family. Consider working closely with your child's doctor to develop a personalized plan for managing pain and other symptoms. Additionally, seeking emotional counseling for both your child and your family can help you all cope with the emotional challenges of this time. Creating a personalized care plan that incorporates your family's wishes and preferences can also help you feel more in control and involved in your child's care. Holistic Approach In the realm of pediatric end of life care, a holistic approach is essential to ensure that both your child and your family receive the comprehensive support needed during this challenging time. By addressing the physical, emotional, and spiritual needs of all involved, you're able to create a more comfortable and dignified environment. Examples of a holistic approach to care that are commonly used include: Art and music therapy: Creative outlets like art and music therapy can provide a safe and meaningful space for your child to express their emotions. Engaging in these activities can help them process their feelings, find comfort, and build resilience. Spiritual support: Spiritual support can play a vital role in helping individuals cope with the emotional challenges of pediatric end of life care. Whether you seek solace in prayer, meditation, or simply conversation, having access to spiritual guidance can provide comfort, hope, and a sense of connection. Respite care: Caring for a child with a life-limiting illness can be physically and emotionally exhausting. Respite care provides temporary breaks for families, allowing caregivers to recharge and focus on their own well-being. These moments of rest can help prevent burnout and ensure that you have the energy and resilience needed to continue providing care. Tailoring Care to Your Needs With Specialized Services Every family's experience with pediatric end of life care is unique. That's why it's important to address their needs with a personalized approach that tailors our services to meet your specific needs. By understanding your child's individual preferences and your family's values, we can create a care plan that truly reflects your wishes and provides the comfort and support you deserve. Pain Management: Ensuring Comfort and Reducing Suffering Pediatric end-of-life care often involves managing pain and other symptoms. It's important to seek out effective pain management solutions that minimize discomfort and improve your child's quality of life. Work closely with your child's medical team to develop a personalized treatment plan that addresses their specific needs. Emotional Counseling: Supporting You and Your Family The emotional toll of pediatric end-of-life care can be significant. Consider seeking emotional counseling for both your child and your family. Trained therapists can provide support and guidance, helping children express their feelings and navigate the emotional challenges of this time. Additionally, therapists can offer support for parents and caregivers, providing tools and strategies for coping with their own emotions and supporting their child. Family-Centered Care Plans: A Collaborative Approach Families should be actively involved in their child's care. Working closely with your child's medical team, you can develop a personalized care plan that takes into account your child's individual needs, your family's preferences, and your goals for care. This collaborative approach can help you feel more in control and involved in your child's care, ensuring that their needs are met and their wishes are respected. No One Should Walk This Path Alone The Footprints Children's Services program at The Denver Hospice empowers families to focus on creating lasting memories with their children during this precious time. We understand that no two situations are the same, which is why we customize our care to meet the unique needs of each family. Learn More About The Denver Hospice Footprints Children's Services Footprints is a program of The Denver Hospice, the area's leading, largest, and most trusted not-for-profit provider of life-enhancing hospice and palliative care. Its Denver campus includes the new Amy Davis Hospice Support Center with dedicated children's and family counseling areas. The Footprints team includes a pediatrician, nurse practitioner, child life specialists, registered nurses, chaplains, massage therapists, and social workers, all with extensive experience caring for children." To learn more about how The Denver Hospice can support your family during this difficult time, please visit our Footprints Children's Services program page: Link to Footprints Children's Services page Together, we can make this journey as comfortable and dignified as possible for your child and your family. Fri, 01 Nov 2024 05:38:53 GMT http://thedenverhospice.org/blog/14950/Pediatric-End-of-Life-Care--Understanding-Approaches-and-Support-for-Families http://thedenverhospice.org/blog/14638/Pediatric-End-of-Life-Care--Understanding-Approaches-and-Support-for-Families blog Pediatric end of life care encompasses the support and management provided to children with life-limiting conditions. It addresses not only the physical symptoms, but also the emotional and psychological needs of both the child and their family. The goal is to ensure that the child experiences comfort and dignity during their final days, while also providing guidance and support to the family members coping with this difficult transition. When facing a serious illness with a child, the focus is always on their well-being. The main focus of end of life and palliative care for children is on helping children and their families to live as well and fully as possible [Source: Better Health Channel]. However, there may come a time when curative treatment is no longer an option, and the priority shifts to comfort and making the most of the precious time together. Understanding the Unique Challenges of Pediatric End of Life Care Pediatric end of life care presents unique challenges that can be emotionally taxing. Even though your child has not yet passed away, it is also still possible to have similar painful feelings of grief before a loved one has died, especially for those providing care to a person at the end of life. Grief therapists refer to this as anticipatory grief and even though it is a normal process, many people don't recognize it when it occurs. You may feel a sense of helplessness, anger, or guilt. It's important to remember that these feelings are normal, and there is no right or wrong way to grieve. Here are some of the common emotional challenges caregivers may face: Helplessness: Watching your child suffer can be incredibly difficult and may make you feel helpless. You may feel like there is nothing you can do to ease their pain or suffering. Anger: Anger is a common emotion to experience during this time. You may feel angry at the illness, at the doctors, or even at yourself. It's important to remember that these feelings are normal and that it's okay to express them. Guilt: You may feel guilty about your child's illness, especially if you believe that you could have done something to prevent it. It's important to remember that you are not to blame for your child's illness. Fear: The fear of losing your child can be overwhelming. You may also fear that your child will suffer. Grief: Grief is a natural response to loss. It's important to allow yourself to grieve, even if your child is still alive. Remember that these feelings are normal, and there is no right or wrong way to grieve. If you are struggling to cope, please reach out to a therapist or support group. There are many people who care about you and want to help you through this difficult time, including the staff and therapists The Amy Davis Hospice Support Center (built in 2020) with dedicated children's and family counseling areas. What Children & Their Families Need When Navigating Pediatric End of Life Care Support for pediatric end of life care situations encompasses essential emotional and physical support for the child and family, along with ensuring there is a personalized plan in place for that specific family. Palliative care [or end of life care] is based on need, not prognosis. Both aspects play a critical role in the emotional and psychological healing process. Providing Emotional and Physical Support As a caregiver, it's important to seek out resources that can help you provide both emotional and physical support for your child and your family. Consider working closely with your child's doctor to develop a personalized plan for managing pain and other symptoms. Additionally, seeking emotional counseling for both your child and your family can help you all cope with the emotional challenges of this time. Creating a personalized care plan that incorporates your family's wishes and preferences can also help you feel more in control and involved in your child's care. Holistic Approach In the realm of pediatric end of life care, a holistic approach is essential to ensure that both your child and your family receive the comprehensive support needed during this challenging time. By addressing the physical, emotional, and spiritual needs of all involved, you're able to create a more comfortable and dignified environment. Examples of a holistic approach to care that are commonly used include: Art and music therapy: Creative outlets like art and music therapy can provide a safe and meaningful space for your child to express their emotions. Engaging in these activities can help them process their feelings, find comfort, and build resilience. Spiritual support: Spiritual support can play a vital role in helping individuals cope with the emotional challenges of pediatric end of life care. Whether you seek solace in prayer, meditation, or simply conversation, having access to spiritual guidance can provide comfort, hope, and a sense of connection. Respite care: Caring for a child with a life-limiting illness can be physically and emotionally exhausting. Respite care provides temporary breaks for families, allowing caregivers to recharge and focus on their own well-being. These moments of rest can help prevent burnout and ensure that you have the energy and resilience needed to continue providing care. Tailoring Care to Your Needs With Specialized Services Every family's experience with pediatric end of life care is unique. That's why it's important to address their needs with a personalized approach that tailors our services to meet your specific needs. By understanding your child's individual preferences and your family's values, we can create a care plan that truly reflects your wishes and provides the comfort and support you deserve. Pain Management: Ensuring Comfort and Reducing Suffering Pediatric end-of-life care often involves managing pain and other symptoms. It's important to seek out effective pain management solutions that minimize discomfort and improve your child's quality of life. Work closely with your child's medical team to develop a personalized treatment plan that addresses their specific needs. Emotional Counseling: Supporting You and Your Family The emotional toll of pediatric end-of-life care can be significant. Consider seeking emotional counseling for both your child and your family. Trained therapists can provide support and guidance, helping children express their feelings and navigate the emotional challenges of this time. Additionally, therapists can offer support for parents and caregivers, providing tools and strategies for coping with their own emotions and supporting their child. Family-Centered Care Plans: A Collaborative Approach Families should be actively involved in their child's care. Working closely with your child's medical team, you can develop a personalized care plan that takes into account your child's individual needs, your family's preferences, and your goals for care. This collaborative approach can help you feel more in control and involved in your child's care, ensuring that their needs are met and their wishes are respected. No One Should Walk This Path Alone The Footprints Children's Services program at The Denver Hospice empowers families to focus on creating lasting memories with their children during this precious time. We understand that no two situations are the same, which is why we customize our care to meet the unique needs of each family. Learn More About The Denver Hospice Footprints Children's Services Footprints is a program of The Denver Hospice, the area's leading, largest, and most trusted not-for-profit provider of life-enhancing hospice and palliative care. Its Denver campus includes the new Amy Davis Hospice Support Center with dedicated children's and family counseling areas. The Footprints team includes a pediatrician, nurse practitioner, child life specialists, registered nurses, chaplains, massage therapists, and social workers, all with extensive experience caring for children.  To learn more about how The Denver Hospice can support your family during this difficult time, please visit our Footprints Children's Services program page:  Together, we can make this journey as comfortable and dignified as possible for your child and your family. Fri, 01 Nov 2024 06:00:00 GMT http://thedenverhospice.org/blog/14638/Pediatric-End-of-Life-Care--Understanding-Approaches-and-Support-for-Families http://thedenverhospice.org/blog/14949/Fast-Scale-Hospice--Utilizing-the-Functional-Assessment-Staging-Tool-for-Enhanced-Patient-Care blog The FAST scale hospice tool is essential for assessing patients with Alzheimer's disease and other dementias. It enables clinicians and caregivers to accurately assess a person's decline in cognitive function throughout the disease and find out if a patient qualifies for hospice care. Understanding how the FAST scale works can greatly affect the quality of care provided at the end of life. Understanding the FAST Scale in Hospice Care The FAST scale is an important tool used in hospice care to assess the decline in individuals with dementia, particularly Alzheimer's disease. It helps determine the appropriate level of care needed and evaluates eligibility for hospice services. A clinician may use the FAST scale during each office visit to detect any changes. Below are detailed explanations of its definition, purpose, and application within hospice contexts. What is the FAST Scale in Hospice: Definition and Purpose The FAST scale hospice tool, or Functional Assessment Staging Tool, provides a structured way to assess the declining abilities of individuals with Alzheimer's and/or Dementia disease. This method categorizes stages of dementia based on functional capabilities. It identifies seven stages, ranging from normal functioning to severe cognitive decline. While every individual is unique, their journey typically follows a specific progression. Healthcare professionals use it to gauge how well a person can perform daily activities. The FAST scale allows caregivers to better understand the patient's current state and prepare for necessary support. Exploring the FAST scale will help you understand its stages, from mild symptoms to severe decline. 'It's important to address any changes in an older person's memory, language abilities, or personality as these may reflect a neurodegenerative disease process that may either be due to a reversible cause or become more serious.' This knowledge can empower families to navigate the complexities of dementia care with confidence and compassion. For families and caregivers, knowing how to interpret the FAST scale can bring clarity during challenging times. It covers functional abilities and daily activities, providing insight into what a patient can manage as their condition progresses. By grasping the significance of this scale, caregivers can make informed decisions about treatment and support. In hospice care, this tool aims to improve patient comfort and quality of life, ensuring the right services are provided. Application of FAST in Hospice Eligibility In hospice care, the FAST scale serves a critical role in determining if a patient qualifies for services. Medical professionals often consider a higher FAST score to indicate more advanced stages of cognitive decline. For instance, a score of 6 or 7 suggests that a patient may require hospice care. These scores help practitioners identify when to transition from standard care to hospice support. This ensures the patient receives appropriate end-of-life care that emphasizes comfort. Families and caregivers can also use the FAST scale to make informed decisions. It guides on what level of assistance the patient may need and helps address the emotional needs of all involved. Implementing FAST in Hospice Care Settings The Functional Assessment Staging Tool (FAST) is a vital tool in hospice care for assessing patients with dementia. It provides a structured way to determine the stage of cognitive decline, which helps tailor care to meet the specific needs of patients. Developed by Dr. Barry Reisberg in 1982, FAST is a practical assessment that categorizes dementia into seven stages based on functional abilities. These stages range from no cognitive impairment to complete dependence. This assessment is completed by a healthcare professional experienced in dementia care and provides an overall score. Steps for Assessing Patients Using FAST To implement the FAST scale, hospice professionals begin by gathering information through caregiver reports and clinical observations. This helps in understanding the patient's cognitive abilities. Next, they will evaluate the patient by following the FAST scale hospice assessment criteria. The scale ranges from stage 1, indicating no cognitive impairment, to stage 7, signifying advanced dementia. Trained hospice professionals should ask specific questions about daily activities, memory loss, and social interactions. It's crucial to involve family members who can provide insights into changes noticed at home. Once the assessment is complete, the hospice professional documents the results. This documentation is essential for planning appropriate care strategies and ensuring consistent communication among the hospice team. Interpreting FAST Stage Results Interpreting the results of the Functional Assessment Staging Tool and stage level is critical for providing effective support. Each stage has different implications for care." It includes seven steps: No functional or cognitive impairment Early functional changes Mild functional losses Moderate functional losses Moderately severe functional losses Severely impaired functional abilities Total dependence For example, a patient at stage 4 may face challenges with daily activities, while a patient at stage 7 needs full assistance. After determining which of the seven stages the patient is in, your caregiver then should analyze the results in conjunction with the patient's overall health conditions. This allows for adjustments in the care plan to ensure comfort and dignity. When discussing the results with families, clear communication is necessary. It helps them understand what to expect as dementia progresses. Additionally, regular reassessment is crucial. The condition of dementia can change rapidly, and ongoing evaluations will ensure that care remains aligned with the patient's current needs. '--------------------------------------------------- When you choose The Denver Hospice, you're choosing a team dedicated to your or your loved one's quality of life. Contact us today to learn more about our comprehensive services and how we can assist you and your loved ones in making the right decision for you and your family. Mon, 30 Sep 2024 08:01:53 GMT http://thedenverhospice.org/blog/14949/Fast-Scale-Hospice--Utilizing-the-Functional-Assessment-Staging-Tool-for-Enhanced-Patient-Care http://thedenverhospice.org/blog/14640/Fast-Scale-Hospice--Utilizing-the-Functional-Assessment-Staging-Tool-for-Enhanced-Patient-Care blog The FAST scale hospice tool is essential for assessing patients with Alzheimer's disease and other dementias. It enables clinicians and caregivers to accurately assess a person's decline in cognitive function throughout the disease [Source: Medical News Today] and find out if a patient qualifies for hospice care. Understanding how the FAST scale works can greatly affect the quality of care provided at the end of life. Understanding the FAST Scale in Hospice Care The FAST scale is an important tool used in hospice care to assess the decline in individuals with dementia, particularly Alzheimer's disease. It helps determine the appropriate level of care needed and evaluates eligibility for hospice services. A clinician may use the FAST scale during each office visit to detect any changes. Below are detailed explanations of its definition, purpose, and application within hospice contexts. What is the FAST Scale in Hospice: Definition and Purpose The FAST scale hospice tool, or Functional Assessment Staging Tool, provides a structured way to assess the declining abilities of individuals with Alzheimer's and/or Dementia disease. This method categorizes stages of dementia based on functional capabilities. It identifies seven stages, ranging from normal functioning to severe cognitive decline. While every individual is unique, their journey typically follows a specific progression. Healthcare professionals use it to gauge how well a person can perform daily activities. The FAST scale allows caregivers to better understand the patient's current state and prepare for necessary support. Exploring the FAST scale will help you understand its stages, from mild symptoms to severe decline. "It's important to address any changes in an older person's memory, language abilities, or personality as these may reflect a neurodegenerative disease process that may either be due to a reversible cause or become more serious." [Source: National Institute on Aging] This knowledge can empower families to navigate the complexities of dementia care with confidence and compassion. For families and caregivers, knowing how to interpret the FAST scale can bring clarity during challenging times. It covers functional abilities and daily activities, providing insight into what a patient can manage as their condition progresses. By grasping the significance of this scale, caregivers can make informed decisions about treatment and support. In hospice care, this tool aims to improve patient comfort and quality of life, ensuring the right services are provided. Application of FAST in Hospice Eligibility In hospice care, the FAST scale serves a critical role in determining if a patient qualifies for services. Medical professionals often consider a higher FAST score to indicate more advanced stages of cognitive decline. For instance, a score of 6 or 7 suggests that a patient may require hospice care. These scores help practitioners identify when to transition from standard care to hospice support. This ensures the patient receives appropriate end-of-life care that emphasizes comfort. Families and caregivers can also use the FAST scale to make informed decisions. It guides on what level of assistance the patient may need and helps address the emotional needs of all involved. Implementing FAST in Hospice Care Settings The Functional Assessment Staging Tool (FAST) is a vital tool in hospice care for assessing patients with dementia. It provides a structured way to determine the stage of cognitive decline, which helps tailor care to meet the specific needs of patients. Developed by Dr. Barry Reisberg in 1982, FAST is a practical assessment that categorizes dementia into seven stages based on functional abilities. These stages range from no cognitive impairment to complete dependence. This assessment is completed by a healthcare professional experienced in dementia care and provides an overall score. Steps for Assessing Patients Using FAST To implement the FAST scale, hospice professionals begin by gathering information through caregiver reports and clinical observations. This helps in understanding the patient's cognitive abilities. Next, they will evaluate the patient by following the FAST scale hospice assessment criteria. The scale ranges from stage 1, indicating no cognitive impairment, to stage 7, signifying advanced dementia. Trained hospice professionals should ask specific questions about daily activities, memory loss, and social interactions. It's crucial to involve family members who can provide insights into changes noticed at home. Once the assessment is complete, the hospice professional documents the results. This documentation is essential for planning appropriate care strategies and ensuring consistent communication among the hospice team. Interpreting FAST Stage Results Interpreting the results of the Functional Assessment Staging Tool and stage level is critical for providing effective support. Each stage has different implications for care.  It includes seven steps: No functional or cognitive impairment Early functional changes Mild functional losses Moderate functional losses Moderately severe functional losses Severely impaired functional abilities Total dependence For example, a patient at stage 4 may face challenges with daily activities, while a patient at stage 7 needs full assistance. After determining which of the seven stages the patient is in, your caregiver then should analyze the results in conjunction with the patient's overall health conditions. This allows for adjustments in the care plan to ensure comfort and dignity. When discussing the results with families, clear communication is necessary. It helps them understand what to expect as dementia progresses. Additionally, regular reassessment is crucial. The condition of dementia can change rapidly, and ongoing evaluations will ensure that care remains aligned with the patient's current needs. —————————————————— When you choose The Denver Hospice, you're choosing a team dedicated to your or your loved one's quality of life. Contact us today to learn more about our comprehensive services and how we can assist you and your loved ones in making the right decision for you and your family. Mon, 30 Sep 2024 06:00:00 GMT http://thedenverhospice.org/blog/14640/Fast-Scale-Hospice--Utilizing-the-Functional-Assessment-Staging-Tool-for-Enhanced-Patient-Care http://thedenverhospice.org/blog/14948/Understanding-Palliative-Care--Improving-Quality-of-Life--Not-Hastening-Death blog There's a common misconception that palliative care means death is imminent. This couldn't be further from the truth. So, does palliative care mean death? The short answer is no. Palliative care meaning is often misunderstood. It's a specialized medical care that focuses on providing relief from pain and other symptoms of a serious illness. Palliative care teams aim to provide comfort and improve quality of life for people and their families. Dispelling the Myth: Palliative Care is Not Hospice A key difference between palliative care and hospice is that palliative care can be provided at any stage of a serious illness, even while curative treatments continue. Hospice care, on the other hand, is for patients with a terminal illness when curative treatment is no longer an option. Deciding when to get palliative care or hospice for a loved one can be a challenging and emotional decision. Many people are unsure about the differences between these types of care and when each is appropriate. Read more advice on this topic in our blog. Who Can Benefit from Palliative Care? Anyone with a serious illness can benefit from palliative care, regardless of age or stage of disease. Palliative care is suitable at any stage of a serious illness, not just at the end of life. Doctors may suggest it as soon as someone is diagnosed." 'Palliative care allows people to be in charge of their quality of life and comfort during a serious illness,' said Susan Finke, Director of Clinical Services at The Denver Hospice. 'Life is a personal journey, and this kind of specialized care exists to help our patients navigate through a difficult time." This includes people with: Chronic illnesses: such as heart disease, cancer, or COPD Life-limiting illnesses: such as advanced cancer or multiple sclerosis Complex medical conditions: requiring specialized care and symptom management Palliative care is about addressing the whole person ' physical, emotional, and spiritual needs. Palliative care supplements your medical care. It's about helping people live as fully and comfortably as possible, whatever their diagnosis. How Palliative Care Improves Quality of Life Palliative care teams work closely with other healthcare providers to manage symptoms, reduce pain, and improve overall well-being. Your palliative care team works together to meet your physical, psychological, social, spiritual, and cultural needs and also helps your family and carers. " Palliative care is primarily provided by a nurse practitioner working in coordination with the patient's primary care provider. In contrast, hospice care at home involves a collaborative team that may include a registered nurse (RN), certified nursing assistant (CNA), social worker, chaplain, medical provider, and other certified health professionals. Managing pain and other physical symptoms Providing emotional and psychological support Offering spiritual and religious support Coordinating care with other healthcare providers Helping patients and families make informed decisions By addressing these needs, palliative care can help people live more fully and comfortably with their illness. Palliative Care of Denver: Your Partner in Care At Palliative Care of Denver, we are committed to providing compassionate and comprehensive palliative care to patients and their families. Our team of experienced professionals is dedicated to improving quality of life and helping people live their best lives." If you or a loved one is facing a serious illness, we encourage you to learn more about palliative care. It's not about giving up hope; it's about living life to the fullest. Contact Palliative Care of Denver today to learn more about our services and how we can help you. Fri, 06 Sep 2024 09:27:22 GMT http://thedenverhospice.org/blog/14948/Understanding-Palliative-Care--Improving-Quality-of-Life--Not-Hastening-Death http://thedenverhospice.org/blog/14639/Understanding-Palliative-Care--Improving-Quality-of-Life--Not-Hastening-Death blog There's a common misconception that palliative care means death is imminent. This couldn't be further from the truth. So, does palliative care mean death? The short answer is no. Palliative care meaning is often misunderstood. It's a specialized medical care that focuses on providing relief from pain and other symptoms of a serious illness. Palliative care teams aim to provide comfort and improve quality of life for people and their families. [Source: Mayo Clinic] Dispelling the Myth: Palliative Care is Not Hospice A key difference between palliative care and hospice is that palliative care can be provided at any stage of a serious illness, even while curative treatments continue. Hospice care, on the other hand, is for patients with a terminal illness when curative treatment is no longer an option. Deciding when to get palliative care or hospice for a loved one can be a challenging and emotional decision. Many people are unsure about the differences between these types of care and when each is appropriate. . Who Can Benefit from Palliative Care? Anyone with a serious illness can benefit from palliative care, regardless of age or stage of disease. Palliative care is suitable at any stage of a serious illness, not just at the end of life. Doctors may suggest it as soon as someone is diagnosed.  "Palliative care allows people to be in charge of their quality of life and comfort during a serious illness," said Susan Finke, Director of Clinical Services at The Denver Hospice. "Life is a personal journey, and this kind of specialized care exists to help our patients navigate through a difficult time." This includes people with: Chronic illnesses: such as heart disease, cancer, or COPD Life-limiting illnesses: such as advanced cancer or multiple sclerosis Complex medical conditions: requiring specialized care and symptom management Palliative care is about addressing the whole person – physical, emotional, and spiritual needs. Palliative care supplements your medical care. It's about helping people live as fully and comfortably as possible, whatever their diagnosis. How Palliative Care Improves Quality of Life Palliative care teams work closely with other healthcare providers to manage symptoms, reduce pain, and improve overall well-being. Your palliative care team works together to meet your physical, psychological, social, spiritual, and cultural needs and also helps your family and carers. [Source: Better Health article]  Palliative care is primarily provided by a nurse practitioner working in coordination with the patient's primary care provider. In contrast, hospice care at home involves a collaborative team that may include a registered nurse (RN), certified nursing assistant (CNA), social worker, chaplain, medical provider, and other certified health professionals. Managing pain and other physical symptoms Providing emotional and psychological support Offering spiritual and religious support Coordinating care with other healthcare providers Helping patients and families make informed decisions By addressing these needs, palliative care can help people live more fully and comfortably with their illness. Palliative Care of Denver: Your Partner in Care At Palliative Care of Denver, we are committed to providing compassionate and comprehensive palliative care to patients and their families. Our team of experienced professionals is dedicated to improving quality of life and helping people live their best lives.  If you or a loved one is facing a serious illness, we encourage you to learn more about palliative care. It's not about giving up hope; it's about living life to the fullest. Contact Palliative Care of Denver today to learn more about our services and how we can help you. Fri, 06 Sep 2024 06:00:00 GMT http://thedenverhospice.org/blog/14639/Understanding-Palliative-Care--Improving-Quality-of-Life--Not-Hastening-Death http://thedenverhospice.org/blog/14939/A-Guide-for-Caregivers-Whose-Loved-One-is-Transitioning-into-Hospice-Care blog Most caregivers with loved ones transitioning into hospice care are doing so for the very first time. Not only do many caregivers lack experience with such a move, but rational thinking and decision-making are often clouded with emotion during such difficult times. Below is a guide for caregivers whose loved ones are transitioning into hospice care, compiled to give you some peace of mind and help navigate decisions during a difficult time. Is Your Loved One Eligible for Hospice Care? Your loved one would be"eligible for hospice care"if they have a life expectancy of six months or less if the disease"were"to run its normal course of action. If they end up living longer than six months, they may be re-certified for hospice care by a doctor if their life expectancy remains at six months or less. How Do You Speak to Your Loved One About Hospice Care? Choose a private and relaxed time and space that is free from distractions to discuss your loved one's condition and treatment. As your loved one is transitioning into hospice care, look for an opening in the conversation, such as your loved one making a comment about just giving up, being sick of the hospital or wanting to be comfortable. These are all indicators that hospice care might be on their mind. Your loved one may want to talk about hospice care but is too afraid to bring it up. Try to identify the cues that can start the conversation. When Should Hospice Care Begin? You do not need to wait for a doctor to suggest hospice care. Caregivers and their loved ones may request guidance for hospice care at any time. Once the request is made, the hospice team contacts your loved one's doctor to determine if hospice care is an appropriate course of action. It's better to act sooner than later. According to an article by the Hospice Alliance, "hospice care should be considered anytime you or a loved one has been diagnosed with a life-limiting illness." How Do You Decide Where Hospice Care Should Take Place? Hospice care may be carried out at home, in a nursing or retirement home, an assisted living facility, skilled nursing facility or in a hospital or hospice facility. Sometimes home care is not an option as the hospice team may decide that inpatient care is necessary under the given circumstances. Many hospice facilities provide overnight accommodations for family members who wish to be by their loved one's side. If inpatient care is elected, ask the following questions: How will the facility work with your loved one's current doctors? What is their protocol for after-hours emergencies? What personal care services are and are not provided? Is the facility licensed and certified? Is the staff accessible to caregivers who wish to discuss treatment for their loved one? What is the patient-to-team ratio at the facility? What are the rules regarding family visitation and overnight stays? How Can You Pay For Hospice Care? The financials of you or your loved one are likely the last thing on your mind at this time, and rightfully so. However, the cost of hospice care must eventually be addressed. Assuming your loved one has Medicare, most of their hospice costs will be taken care of, save for some small copayments for medications and any respite care. How Can You Adapt to Your New Role as a Caregiver? You may have been caring for your loved one for quite some time, but the transition to hospice care brings on a whole new set of challenges for a caregiver. There is hospice care education available online where caregivers can receive guidance about their new role. Finding the Hospice Care Solution that is Right for You and Your Loved One Transitioning into hospice care is a trying time for everyone involved. The Denver Hospice care team consists of individuals who focus on comfort by addressing physical, emotional, psychological and spiritual needs. Along with a patient's family members or other loved ones, the team will provide the necessary support and care for each patient. Hospice care provides comfort to terminally ill patients who have stopped medical treatment. The main goal of hospice care is the comfort of the patient and their family. It is important to understand that hospice is not a specific place'it is a specific type of care provided. With the right kind of guidance, you and your loved one can make the most of a difficult situation and ensure they live the highest possible quality of life right until the very end. Wed, 24 Jul 2024 06:00:28 GMT http://thedenverhospice.org/blog/14939/A-Guide-for-Caregivers-Whose-Loved-One-is-Transitioning-into-Hospice-Care http://thedenverhospice.org/blog/14641/A-Guide-for-Caregivers-Whose-Loved-One-is-Transitioning-into-Hospice-Care blog Most caregivers with loved ones transitioning into hospice care are doing so for the very first time. Not only do many caregivers lack experience with such a move, but rational thinking and decision-making are often clouded with emotion during such difficult times. Below is a guide for caregivers whose loved ones are transitioning into hospice care, compiled to give you some peace of mind and help navigate decisions during a difficult time. Is Your Loved One Eligible for Hospice Care? Your loved one would be eligible for hospice care if they have a life expectancy of six months or less if the disease were to run its normal course of action. If they end up living longer than six months, they may be re-certified for hospice care by a doctor if their life expectancy remains at six months or less. How Do You Speak to Your Loved One About Hospice Care? Choose a private and relaxed time and space that is free from distractions to discuss your loved one's condition and treatment. As your loved one is transitioning into hospice care, look for an opening in the conversation, such as your loved one making a comment about just giving up, being sick of the hospital or wanting to be comfortable. These are all indicators that hospice care might be on their mind. Your loved one may want to talk about hospice care but is too afraid to bring it up. Try to identify the cues that can start the conversation. When Should Hospice Care Begin? You do not need to wait for a doctor to suggest hospice care. Caregivers and their loved ones may request guidance for hospice care at any time. Once the request is made, the hospice team contacts your loved one's doctor to determine if hospice care is an appropriate course of action. It's better to act sooner than later. According to an article by the Hospice Alliance, "hospice care should be considered anytime you or a loved one has been diagnosed with a life-limiting illness." How Do You Decide Where Hospice Care Should Take Place? Hospice care may be carried out at home, in a nursing or retirement home, an assisted living facility, skilled nursing facility or in a hospital or hospice facility. Sometimes home care is not an option as the hospice team may decide that inpatient care is necessary under the given circumstances. Many hospice facilities provide overnight accommodations for family members who wish to be by their loved one's side. If inpatient care is elected, ask the following questions: How will the facility work with your loved one's current doctors? What is their protocol for after-hours emergencies? What personal care services are and are not provided? Is the facility licensed and certified? Is the staff accessible to caregivers who wish to discuss treatment for their loved one? What is the patient-to-team ratio at the facility? What are the rules regarding family visitation and overnight stays? How Can You Pay For Hospice Care? The financials of you or your loved one are likely the last thing on your mind at this time, and rightfully so. However, the cost of hospice care must eventually be addressed. Assuming your loved one has Medicare, most of their hospice costs will be taken care of, save for some small copayments for medications and any respite care. How Can You Adapt to Your New Role as a Caregiver? You may have been caring for your loved one for quite some time, but the transition to hospice care brings on a whole new set of challenges for a caregiver. There is hospice care education available online where caregivers can receive guidance about their new role. Finding the Hospice Care Solution that is Right for You and Your Loved One Transitioning into hospice care is a trying time for everyone involved. The Denver Hospice care team consists of individuals who focus on comfort by addressing physical, emotional, psychological and spiritual needs. Along with a patient's family members or other loved ones, the team will provide the necessary support and care for each patient. Hospice care provides comfort to terminally ill patients who have stopped medical treatment. The main goal of hospice care is the comfort of the patient and their family. It is important to understand that hospice is not a specific place—it is a specific type of care provided. With the right kind of guidance, you and your loved one can make the most of a difficult situation and ensure they live the highest possible quality of life right until the very end. Wed, 24 Jul 2024 06:00:00 GMT http://thedenverhospice.org/blog/14641/A-Guide-for-Caregivers-Whose-Loved-One-is-Transitioning-into-Hospice-Care http://thedenverhospice.org/blog/14935/When-to-Get-Palliative-Care-or-Hospice-for-Your-Loved-One blog Deciding when to get palliative care or hospice for a loved one can be a challenging and emotional decision. Many people are unsure about the differences between these types of care and when each is appropriate. Understanding the options available and the right time to seek help can ensure that your loved one receives the best possible care and support during a difficult time. This blog will explore the key distinctions between palliative and hospice care, dispel common misconceptions, and share a personal story from a Denver Hospice patient to illustrate the impact these services can have. The Importance of Knowing Your Options Most people don't have the advantage of personal knowledge about end-of-life options and many also have never thought or talked about their wishes for care in such a situation. Without information, many families may make hasty decisions to engage in aggressive treatment for their loved ones because they don't know what else to do. These patients may tragically be subjected to treatment they do not want simply because of a lack of knowledge and preparation. When to Get Palliative Care To be fully prepared for the future, it's important to understand palliative care and hospice. Palliative care can begin early in a disease and allows patients to receive full treatment for their illness alongside support. It provides wraparound care for serious illness, focusing on physical, emotional, and spiritual needs. "Both palliative care and hospice care are focused on the needs of the patient and their quality of life." Knowing when to get palliative care is crucial for making informed decisions for your loved one. According to this updated Science American article, "In 2021 only an estimated one in 10 people worldwide who needed palliative care received it, according to the World Health Organization." Palliative care can begin early in the course of a disease, so consider it as soon as your loved one is diagnosed with a potentially life-limiting illness. Palliative care patients can continue to receive full treatment for their illness at the same time they are receiving palliative care. Essentially, palliative care is the wraparound support when dealing with a serious illness. Key Differences Between Palliative Care and Hospice However, there are some key differences between palliative care and hospice that you'll need to understand in order to make the best decision for your loved one. Here are four of those differences: Time Frame Palliative care "this care can happen at any time during a serious illness. You don't have to be near death to get this care." Palliative care can begin early in the course of a disease, so consider it as soon as your loved one is diagnosed with a potentially life-limiting illness. Hospice care is appropriate when the patient has six months or less to live. Knowing when to start palliative care can significantly enhance the quality of life for patients early on. Treatment Palliative patients can continue to receive full treatment for their illness while receiving palliative care. However, patients are appropriate for hospice when they have stopped all treatment for the illness. Understanding when palliative care is appropriate can help manage symptoms effectively while continuing treatment. Outcome Palliative patients are not necessarily at the end of life and can receive care for as long as necessary. Hospice patients are considered terminal and will be preparing for the end of life with the hospice staff. Some palliative patients go on to be admitted for hospice care eventually, and the palliative care team can assist with that decision when necessary. Goal of Care The palliative care team aims to assist the patient during the course of serious illness in any way needed, particularly with physical, emotional, and spiritual issues that are not addressed by the treatment team. The goal of hospice care is to assist the patient and family through the dying process, providing symptom management and support as needed. Personal Experience with Hospice Care at The Denver Hospice "When my mother was diagnosed with biliary cancer at the age of 89, it was relatively easy to choose our next steps because of my personal experience with Denver Hospice. Over the years, I had many conversations with her about the type of care she wanted at the end of life, so we were well-prepared for the situation that faced us. The knowledge and support from Denver Hospice made all the difference during this challenging time. In my mother's case, when she was diagnosed with biliary cancer, she might have been a good candidate for palliative care to help her with her symptoms if she had been younger and healthier overall. A patient newly diagnosed with cancer who is starting treatment would benefit from the services of the palliative care team throughout the entire course of care. But Mom was not a candidate for any treatment for her cancer because of her age and frailty, so we chose to admit her for hospice care. We understood that she was at the end of her life and she was ready emotionally and spiritually to prepare for her last days. The Denver Hospice was a perfect choice for Mom because she was able to stay in her own home and receive visits from the hospice staff. They made sure she stayed comfortable and safe in her home until she needed me to come and provide around-the-clock care for her." Life-Enhancing Hospice and Palliative Care at The Denver Hospice Understanding when to get palliative care or hospice for your loved one can make a significant difference in their quality of life. At The Denver Hospice, we are among the Rocky Mountain region's largest and most trusted not-for-profit providers of life-enhancing hospice and palliative care. We know that caring for a loved one with an illness can take an emotional toll on a family, and we believe that family members, like you, have enough to worry about. You shouldn't have to worry about making the right choice of care provider too. Contact The Denver Hospice today to learn more about our services and how we can support you during this difficult time. Tue, 18 Jun 2024 06:00:51 GMT http://thedenverhospice.org/blog/14935/When-to-Get-Palliative-Care-or-Hospice-for-Your-Loved-One http://thedenverhospice.org/blog/14706/When-to-Get-Palliative-Care-or-Hospice-for-Your-Loved-One blog Deciding when to get palliative care or hospice for a loved one can be a challenging and emotional decision. Many people are unsure about the differences between these types of care and when each is appropriate. Understanding the options available and the right time to seek help can ensure that your loved one receives the best possible care and support during a difficult time. This blog will explore the key distinctions between palliative and hospice care, dispel common misconceptions, and share a personal story from a Denver Hospice patient to illustrate the impact these services can have. The Importance of Knowing Your Options Most people don't have the advantage of personal knowledge about end-of-life options and many also have never thought or talked about their wishes for care in such a situation. Without information, many families may make hasty decisions to engage in aggressive treatment for their loved ones because they don't know what else to do. These patients may tragically be subjected to treatment they do not want simply because of a lack of knowledge and preparation. When to Get Palliative Care To be fully prepared for the future, it's important to understand palliative care and hospice. Palliative care can begin early in a disease and allows patients to receive full treatment for their illness alongside support. It provides wraparound care for serious illness, focusing on physical, emotional, and spiritual needs. "Both palliative care and hospice care are focused on the needs of the patient and their quality of life." [CaringInfo] Knowing when to get palliative care is crucial for making informed decisions for your loved one. According to this updated Science American article, "In 2021 only an estimated one in 10 people worldwide who needed palliative care received it, according to the World Health Organization." Palliative care can begin early in the course of a disease, so consider it as soon as your loved one is diagnosed with a potentially life-limiting illness. Palliative care patients can continue to receive full treatment for their illness at the same time they are receiving palliative care. Essentially, palliative care is the wraparound support when dealing with a serious illness. Key Differences Between Palliative Care and Hospice However, there are some key differences between palliative care and hospice that you'll need to understand in order to make the best decision for your loved one. Here are four of those differences: Time Frame Palliative care "this care can happen at any time during a serious illness. You don't have to be near death to get this care." Palliative care can begin early in the course of a disease, so consider it as soon as your loved one is diagnosed with a potentially life-limiting illness. Hospice care is appropriate when the patient has six months or less to live. Knowing when to start palliative care can significantly enhance the quality of life for patients early on. Treatment Palliative patients can continue to receive full treatment for their illness while receiving palliative care. However, patients are appropriate for hospice when they have stopped all treatment for the illness. Understanding when palliative care is appropriate can help manage symptoms effectively while continuing treatment. Outcome Palliative patients are not necessarily at the end of life and can receive care for as long as necessary. Hospice patients are considered terminal and will be preparing for the end of life with the hospice staff. Some palliative patients go on to be admitted for hospice care eventually, and the palliative care team can assist with that decision when necessary. Goal of Care The palliative care team aims to assist the patient during the course of serious illness in any way needed, particularly with physical, emotional, and spiritual issues that are not addressed by the treatment team. The goal of hospice care is to assist the patient and family through the dying process, providing symptom management and support as needed. Personal Experience with Hospice Care at The Denver Hospice "When my mother was diagnosed with biliary cancer at the age of 89, it was relatively easy to choose our next steps because of my personal experience with Denver Hospice. Over the years, I had many conversations with her about the type of care she wanted at the end of life, so we were well-prepared for the situation that faced us. The knowledge and support from Denver Hospice made all the difference during this challenging time. In my mother's case, when she was diagnosed with biliary cancer, she might have been a good candidate for palliative care to help her with her symptoms if she had been younger and healthier overall. A patient newly diagnosed with cancer who is starting treatment would benefit from the services of the palliative care team throughout the entire course of care. But Mom was not a candidate for any treatment for her cancer because of her age and frailty, so we chose to admit her for hospice care. We understood that she was at the end of her life and she was ready emotionally and spiritually to prepare for her last days. The Denver Hospice was a perfect choice for Mom because she was able to stay in her own home and receive visits from the hospice staff. They made sure she stayed comfortable and safe in her home until she needed me to come and provide around-the-clock care for her." Life-Enhancing Hospice and Palliative Care at The Denver Hospice Understanding when to get palliative care or hospice for your loved one can make a significant difference in their quality of life. At The Denver Hospice, we are among the Rocky Mountain region's largest and most trusted not-for-profit providers of life-enhancing hospice and palliative care. We know that caring for a loved one with an illness can take an emotional toll on a family, and we believe that family members, like you, have enough to worry about. You shouldn't have to worry about making the right choice of care provider too. Contact The Denver Hospice today to learn more about our services and how we can support you during this difficult time. Tue, 18 Jun 2024 06:00:00 GMT http://thedenverhospice.org/blog/14706/When-to-Get-Palliative-Care-or-Hospice-for-Your-Loved-One http://thedenverhospice.org/blog/14937/When-Does-Medicare-Cover-Hospice- blog When navigating the complexities of end-of-life care, cost can be a burden to many families. Many individuals often find themselves asking, "Does Medicare cover hospice?" The reassuring answer is that Medicare does pay for hospice care, providing significant financial relief during this challenging time. However, it's important to note that Medicare doesn't cover everything, and there are some services that might not be included. A lot of people who qualify for Medicare hospice care don't know that they're eligible. Many often struggle to access other means of payment. Facing hospice care is hard. It shouldn't be the time to be anxious over finances. We have made Medicare coverage for hospice more understandable; now you can easily determine if you or a family member qualifies. Qualify for Medicare hospice benefits The beneficiary is entitled to Medicare Part A, which is hospital insurance. The US Federal Government provides Medicare Part A health insurance to all U.S. citizens; it's also available for legal immigrants who've lived in the U.S for at least 5 years. Medicare Part A covers inpatient care services. To qualify you must have a life expectancy of six months or less if the illness runs its course. However, because diagnoses are not always exact, living longer than six months will not automatically void the beneficiary's cover. Each beneficiary gets an infinite number of supplementary 60-day periods after the first period; so, you can go years on the hospice benefit if the physician believes your expectancy is six months or less. Only the hospice doctor or the beneficiary's regular doctor can legally certify as to the terminal illness of the beneficiary. The beneficiary must sign a statement selecting the hospice benefit; this means foregoing any treatment to cure the illness and electing to receive only palliative care. This means no cutting-edge tests, and no experimental drugs meant to cure the disease. Under the Medicare Hospice benefits, care is to provide relief from the symptoms and stress of the disease. Palliative care is there to address the physical, intellectual, emotional, spiritual, and social needs of the patient and his family. If the beneficiary already lives in a nursing home, Medicare won't pay for room and board; however, they pay for care for the terminal illness. This is often a long process because the nursing home and the hospice providing the care need to sign a contract as to who is responsible for what. To qualify for Medicare hospice benefits, the beneficiary must be willing to receive care from a Medicare-approved hospice provider, and not a privately-run hospice provider. Hospice Services Medicare Covers Medicare hospice benefits help not only the patient but family members as well. Thus, the services that it does cover are wide and extensive. Whether in full or partly, Medicare hospice benefit covers doctor services, nursing care, prescription drugs for pain relief, medical equipment such as walkers and wheelchairs, and physical and occupational therapy services, if needed. Other services that Medicare pays for as per hospice care are dietary counseling, medical supplies, and hospice aide services. Medicare hospice benefits cover social work services, short-term inpatient respite care, and short-term inpatient care to manage pain. Also, Medicare covers grief loss counseling for both the patient and their family. Hospice Services Medicare Won't Cover Knowing what Medicare won't pay for when it comes to hospice care is important. These benefits Medicare won't cover under its hospice benefits. Medicare won't pay for room and board in nursing homes, inpatient hospice houses or assisted living facilities. If you're thinking about treatment to cure illness rather than continue with palliative care, discuss this with your doctor. This treatment will mean an end to Medicare's hospice coverage. Medicare doesn't cover prescription drugs; except when for pain relief and symptom control in the hospital or outpatient facility. Medicare won't pay for care from a provider that wasn't set up by the hospice medical team. As a matter of policy, your care must always be given by your chosen hospice provider. Medicare won't pay for the care unless the hospice team arranges this, or it's not related to your terminal illness. If you need a hospital's inpatient"care"for your terminal illness, the hospice provider must make the arrangements. Going to the hospital when the hospice provider didn't plan means being personally responsible for the entire cost. The Denver Hospice offers different levels of hospice care. Contact us for more information! Thu, 16 May 2024 06:00:29 GMT http://thedenverhospice.org/blog/14937/When-Does-Medicare-Cover-Hospice- http://thedenverhospice.org/blog/14642/When-Does-Medicare-Cover-Hospice- blog When navigating the complexities of end-of-life care, cost can be a burden to many families. Many individuals often find themselves asking, "Does Medicare cover hospice?" The reassuring answer is that Medicare does pay for hospice care, providing significant financial relief during this challenging time. However, it's important to note that Medicare doesn't cover everything, and there are some services that might not be included. A lot of people who qualify for Medicare hospice care don't know that they're eligible. Many often struggle to access other means of payment. Facing hospice care is hard. It shouldn't be the time to be anxious over finances. We have made Medicare coverage for hospice more understandable; now you can easily determine if you or a family member qualifies. Qualify for Medicare hospice benefits The beneficiary is entitled to Medicare Part A, which is hospital insurance. The US Federal Government provides Medicare Part A health insurance to all U.S. citizens; it's also available for legal immigrants who've lived in the U.S for at least 5 years. Medicare Part A covers inpatient care services. To qualify you must have a life expectancy of six months or less if the illness runs its course. However, because diagnoses are not always exact, living longer than six months will not automatically void the beneficiary's cover. Each beneficiary gets an infinite number of supplementary 60-day periods after the first period; so, you can go years on the hospice benefit if the physician believes your expectancy is six months or less. Only the hospice doctor or the beneficiary's regular doctor can legally certify as to the terminal illness of the beneficiary. The beneficiary must sign a statement selecting the hospice benefit; this means foregoing any treatment to cure the illness and electing to receive only palliative care. This means no cutting-edge tests, and no experimental drugs meant to cure the disease. Under the Medicare Hospice benefits, care is to provide relief from the symptoms and stress of the disease. Palliative care is there to address the physical, intellectual, emotional, spiritual, and social needs of the patient and his family. If the beneficiary already lives in a nursing home, Medicare won't pay for room and board; however, they pay for care for the terminal illness. This is often a long process because the nursing home and the hospice providing the care need to sign a contract as to who is responsible for what. To qualify for Medicare hospice benefits, the beneficiary must be willing to receive care from a Medicare-approved hospice provider, and not a privately-run hospice provider. Hospice Services Medicare Covers Medicare hospice benefits help not only the patient but family members as well. Thus, the services that it does cover are wide and extensive. Whether in full or partly, Medicare hospice benefit covers doctor services, nursing care, prescription drugs for pain relief, medical equipment such as walkers and wheelchairs, and physical and occupational therapy services, if needed. Other services that Medicare pays for as per hospice care are dietary counseling, medical supplies, and hospice aide services. Medicare hospice benefits cover social work services, short-term inpatient respite care, and short-term inpatient care to manage pain. Also, Medicare covers grief loss counseling for both the patient and their family. Hospice Services Medicare Won't Cover Knowing what Medicare won't pay for when it comes to hospice care is important. These benefits Medicare won't cover under its hospice benefits. Medicare won't pay for room and board in nursing homes, inpatient hospice houses or assisted living facilities. If you're thinking about treatment to cure illness rather than continue with palliative care, discuss this with your doctor. This treatment will mean an end to Medicare's hospice coverage. Medicare doesn't cover prescription drugs; except when for pain relief and symptom control in the hospital or outpatient facility. Medicare won't pay for care from a provider that wasn't set up by the hospice medical team. As a matter of policy, your care must always be given by your chosen hospice provider. Medicare won't pay for the care unless the hospice team arranges this, or it's not related to your terminal illness. If you need a hospital's inpatient care for your terminal illness, the hospice provider must make the arrangements. Going to the hospital when the hospice provider didn't plan means being personally responsible for the entire cost. The Denver Hospice offers different levels of hospice care. Contact us for more information! Thu, 16 May 2024 06:00:00 GMT http://thedenverhospice.org/blog/14642/When-Does-Medicare-Cover-Hospice- http://thedenverhospice.org/blog/14938/How-to-Talk-to-an-Elderly-Parent-About-End-of-Life-Decisions blog For those adult children who are providing care to their aging parents, talking about end-of-life issues can be a daunting prospect. The oldest members of our society have lived through a time when death was rarely discussed and planning for the end of life was not an option to be considered. They may never have thought about their own death and may be resistant to attempts to bring up the once-taboo subject. But we know that having these difficult conversations in advance can lead to better quality of life and less family stress during the last days of life, not to mention decreased futile medical treatment and unwanted intervention. So the value of talking about end-of-life decisions with elderly parents cannot be overstated, even though it may present a challenge to children who take on this task. Here are some suggestions for starting a conversation and making it valuable and worthwhile for everyone involved: Don't Put it Off Discussions about end-of-life issues are best when conducted over time, with multiple opportunities to explore the options available and the emotions surrounding the subject. Those families that wait until a health crisis occurs end up making hasty decisions without really knowing their loved one's preferences. Talking in advance allows everyone to process the fact that death is a normal part of life and should be planned for just like we plan ahead for college, marriage, retirement or other milestone events of life. Beginning the conversation about the end of life while your loved one is still relatively far away from that event allows for a gradual step-wise approach to the subject that can proceed slowly over several months. Everyone will feel more comfortable talking about death if it seems to be more distant in the future. Complete Your Own Advance Directive Form First By filling out your own living will in advance you will have experienced the challenge for yourself of thinking about your preferences for the end of life. The knowledge you gain will help you tune in to how your parent might feel about answering these questions and also prepare you for the difficulties in this process. In addition you'all be able to start your conversation by talking about your own choices and why you felt you needed to complete an advance directive. Do Your Homework Spend some time researching options for end-of-life care such as hospice and palliative care and also find out what facilities and programs are available in your community. Eventually you will want to create a list of questions to consider with your loved one so that you can stay organized during your discussion and not leave out any important issues. The Starter Kit from The Conversation Project can be a helpful guide to get you started. Learn more about hospice care at http://caringinfo.org. You might also consult a local hospice to get more information from them about the services they offer. Choose the Right Time and Place Some experts recommend starting end-of-life discussions during a special event, such as a holiday dinner, when a large number of family members are present. The advantage of this strategy is that you can communicate with many people at once. However it may feel too chaotic and too confronting to bring up a sensitive topic at a time of celebration. For some people it may be better to talk over a quiet lunch or while on a walk or drive together. If your parent has had a recent medical check-up or change in health status, that can also be a good time to bring up the discussion. Plan a Great Introduction You will feel more confident in initiating the discussion if you have already decided how to bring it up. You might remark that you recently completed your own living will or read an article or talked to your own doctor about end-of-life decisions. As mentioned previously you can begin by describing your own feelings about the process, why it was positive for you and how you feel it will benefit your loved ones to know your choices. Another option is to ask your parent what it was like for them when their own parents died. Through the telling of those stories you can glean what went wrong (or right) at your grandparents' end of life and then ask: 'How would like it to be for you when it's your time?' You can also watch a film together like 'The Bucket List' and use that as a conversation starter. Begin by talking about your own bucket lists and then move on from there to ask about wishes for healthcare at the end of life. Proceed Slowly and Gradually The advantage of talking about these issues far in advance is that you will have time to divide the conversation into shorter segments so you won't have to address everything at once. Begin by talking about 'bucket list' items as above, then move to healthcare choices, such as quality vs. quantity of life, care at home or in a facility, natural dying vs. prolonging life through artificial means, and finally, after-death considerations like funeral and burial options. Take Notes During your discussion be sure to write down your parent's most important wishes, then review your notes together to make sure they are accurate. These notes will come in handy when you need to share this information with other family members. Also in a moment of crisis your memory may be faulty so you will be grateful to have written documents that verify your conversation. Have your parent complete an advance directive form and be sure that they share it with medical providers, attorneys and clergy in addition to other loved ones. Be Persistent This end-of-life conversation is one of the most important discussions you will have with your parent, so don't be deterred. Even if you get rejected at first keep trying over time to introduce the topic in various ways. Watch for opportunities to talk further such as when a friend or relative dies or a tragedy is mentioned in the news; gather articles from magazines and newspapers; describe a funeral you've attended; talk about teaching your own children about grief. There are many different ways to approach this subject so be creative and don't give up. Ultimately everyone will benefit from the effort you make to talk to your parent about the end of life. Remember that 100 years ago death was a normal part of everyday life and took place in everyone's home, so conversations about death happened naturally and of necessity. By fostering an end-of-life discussion in our homes we are restoring a tradition of the past that will bring greater balance and peace to us throughout the rest of our lives. The Denver Hospice is Here to Help At The Denver Hospice, we believe in more'for every individual, regardless of where they are in life's journey. Our team is here to help guide you through end-of-life decisions, if needed, offering valuable resources and support to ensure you or your loved one receives the care and comfort you deserve. Contact us today for assistance and resources to help you with end-of-life decisions. Thu, 02 May 2024 08:42:34 GMT http://thedenverhospice.org/blog/14938/How-to-Talk-to-an-Elderly-Parent-About-End-of-Life-Decisions http://thedenverhospice.org/blog/14936/What-to-Say-When-Someone-is-Dying--Simple-Ways-to-Comfort-a-Dying-Loved-One blog Wondering what to say when someone is dying? When a loved one enters into hospice care at the end of life, family members can feel a bit overwhelmed as they try to offer help in a situation they've never experienced before. Most of us haven't been exposed to death and have never learned how to be with a dying person. But even though it can be stressful at times, caring for a dying loved one is a great privilege and provides an opportunity to learn about the most significant passage of life. When you face this difficult crossroad with someone you love don't shy away from being a caregiver because you feel unprepared to be of service to the dying. Here are some simple ways you can bring comfort to a dying loved one: Create a quiet environment The senses of a dying person are often enhanced so loud noises can be disturbing and unpleasant. According to the National Institute of aging, setting a comforting mood is important, "Some people prefer quiet moments with less people." Turn off the television, ask visitors to take their conversations to another room, remove the telephone, and minimize outside sounds that may come in through the windows. Sit in silence The dying person may appear to be asleep but often there is a great deal of 'inner work' taking place as she processes any unfinished business from the past and lets go of attachments to life. This work can be fostered by simply sitting next to the person in silent support and with thoughts of love. If you already use prayer or meditation in your own life, this is a perfect opportunity to practice as you help create a safe space of love for the dying one. Speak soothing words When you do want to convey a message to your loved one speak softly and use words that help him with his inner work of letting go. You can remind him/her that you love him, that he/she has lived a good life, you will remember him/her, and it's okay for him/her to let go when he is ready. Here are a few examples of phrases from this article from Renaissance Funeral Home and Crematory that mean the world to friends and family who are suffering an impending loss: 'I love you, always.' 'I'm here for you, no matter what.' 'You're not alone; we're in this together.' 'I'm just a phone call away.' 'You mean the world to me.' 'Take all the time you need; I'll be here.' 'I'm thinking of you every day.' 'If you want to talk, I'm all ears.' 'You have my unwavering support.' 'You're important to me, and I care about you deeply.' But remember to use words sparingly so that your loved one can continue to focus on the inner work that is taking place. Dim the lighting Bright lights can be disturbing to a dying person, again because of enhanced sensitivity, so turn off any overhead lights and use a few small lamps in the room to create softer illumination. Place the lamps where they brighten up a workspace but not so that they shine directly on the patient. Keep the patient's mouth moist Use sponge sticks saturated with water to frequently moisten your loved one's mouth and lips. The body begins to dehydrate during the dying process, which can cause uncomfortable dryness of the mucous membranes. This simple gesture can make a huge difference in your loved one's comfort level during the final days of life. Play soft music, if helpful Some dying patients respond well to soft background music, which can enhance relaxation and ease anxiety. But others can become more agitated with music that does not resonate with their own process at the time. Play slow instrumental music that has been written specifically for dying patients such as harp music or the a cappella vocals of Threshold Choir. Watch for any signs of discomfort from your loved one and be prepared to turn the music off if needed. Use gentle touch Whenever you need to move or turn your loved one speak softly to her first to tell her what is going to happen, then touch her arm or hand gently to prepare her for the motion. You can hold your loved one's hand or offer very gentle massage as long as that seems to be soothing to her. In the last few hours of life it is sometimes better to stop touching the patient so that she can keep her awareness on the dying process rather than on the physical realm she is trying to leave behind. The most important skill you will require as you care for a dying loved one is the ability to tune in to his state of being. Listen and observe carefully to help you recognize when something is causing discomfort or when there is a need for your closeness. Be ready to provide whatever gentle kindness you are called upon to offer and trust that you will know instinctively what to do when a need arises. These moments spent with a loved one during the last few hours of life are precious and profound and they can change you for the good forever. Say yes and show up to offer comfort when this opportunity occurs in your own life. You won't regret it. End-Of-Life Questions & Grief Support Services at The Denver Hospice We understand that the grief you feel before a loved one passes, is so difficult. For more resources and education surrounding what to say when someone you care about is reaching the end of life click here. After your loved one's passing, lean on our Grief Center Services to help. Our Grief Center offers a full range of grief support services to help you process and explore your loss, including grief support groups, individual counseling, children and teen support, and memorial services. Don't hesitate to reach out for additional support. Wed, 06 Mar 2024 06:49:17 GMT http://thedenverhospice.org/blog/14936/What-to-Say-When-Someone-is-Dying--Simple-Ways-to-Comfort-a-Dying-Loved-One http://thedenverhospice.org/blog/14947/Music-Therapy--There-s-More-To-It-Than-Just-Listening-to-Music blog Music therapy is a research-informed therapy that uses music interventions to meet the psychosocial and physical needs of hospice patients. Board-certified music therapists work with hospice patients and their families in their homes, long-term care facilities, inpatient care centers, and hospitals. When we think of music therapy, listening to music often comes to mind. However, the techniques used are much broader than just listening and include: Making music Writing songs Singing Dancing Discussing music, musicians, and singing Music therapy interventions are used in hospice because they assist in decreasing pain and discomfort through individualized interventions. The benefits of music therapy include: Managing stress: breath rate, heart rate, and blood pressure are all affected by music, depending on its intensity and tempo. Alleviating pain: a 2016 NIH database of over 90 studies reported that music helps people manage pain better than medication alone. Relieving fatigue: a Shanghai University study found relaxing music helped reduce fatigue and maintain muscle endurance. Expressing feelings: music brings people together and promotes trust and empathy, which encourages loved ones to share their thoughts and fears. Enhancing memory: listening to music stimulates cognitive functioning, resulting in better memory recall. Facilitating family communication: music strengthens intimacy, increases confidence, and reduces irritability so that loved ones are able to have meaningful conversations. Expressing spiritual beliefs: music touches the heart; it affirms life and expresses hope. The intersection of spiritual beliefs and music is an affirmation of somebodiness. Family members can assert that their loved one is somebody special, and they can give voice'a beautiful voice'to their shared experiences in life. One of the most important functions of music is to create a feeling of cohesion or social connectedness. Music brings joy to patients and families and creates exceptional end-of-life experiences and memories. Sun, 12 Nov 2023 09:39:15 GMT http://thedenverhospice.org/blog/14947/Music-Therapy--There-s-More-To-It-Than-Just-Listening-to-Music http://thedenverhospice.org/blog/14946/Grief-and-Depression--How-to-Tell-the-Difference blog Intensity and length of time are the primary differences between grief and depression." Grief is the loss of someone or some living thing that has died. Although conventionally focused on the emotional response to loss, grief also has physical, cognitive, behavioral, social, cultural, spiritual, and philosophical dimensions. When people are grieving, they have intermittent breaks of humor and can relate to others amidst their sadness. They continue to be engaged with the people in their lives and can envision a future. "Depression is not based on how long someone is missing and mourning a loved one on the presence and intensity of physical, emotional, and cognitive symptoms a month or longer after experiencing a loss. Depression causes a persistent feeling of sadness and loss of interest. It affects how people feel, think, and behave and can lead to emotional and physical problems. Clinically depressed people lack energy and resilience to take positive steps to improve the future. "Depression is not grief. It is impossible to grieve when someone is depressed. So, just how do you differentiate between normal bereavement and depression? Keep an eye open for these symptoms: "Grief symptoms include Sadness that a loved one's gone but relieved that they're at peace Yearning for a spouse after a divorce but also excitement that they get another shot at love Guilt for feeling grateful that they no longer must provide exhausting around-the-clock care for a dying relative Fatigue Headaches Nausea Restlessness Upset stomach Heart palpitations Weak muscles or joint pain Tightness in your chest or throat Having reduced or increased appetite Trouble sleeping (insomnia) or sleeping too much "Clinic depression symptoms include Relentless feelings of gloom and hopelessness Chronic ruminating thoughts Eating and sleeping problems Lethargy Difficulty concentrating, making decisions, and relating to others Feeling numb and acting detached Unable to enjoy any of their previous sources of pleasure Destructive thoughts and behaviors "Neither situation is hopeless. People who are grieving often have feelings of guilt, anger, and ambivalence, but these can be resolved in psychotherapy. After depressed people take medicine, then they can address the underlying feelings of mourning and sadness. Both can have positive outcomes. Thu, 12 Oct 2023 12:25:49 GMT http://thedenverhospice.org/blog/14946/Grief-and-Depression--How-to-Tell-the-Difference http://thedenverhospice.org/blog/14945/Successful-Parent-Caregiving-with-Your-Siblings blog Caring for an aging parent alone is stressful and can be difficult. The good news is caregiving with siblings can be enormously helpful. The bad news is caregiving with siblings can add more stress." "Whether you're just starting to care for your parent or already sharing caregiving responsibilities with your siblings, take a step back and look at the family dynamics, which can impact shared caregiving. Rather than think of your sibling in the role they played when you were younger, take a fresh look at who they are now. Have a conversation with them to discuss how caring for your parent will be a shared responsibility. Rather than letting assumptions become default decisions (the oldest will be in charge, or another sibling needs a place to live, so this person will be the caregiver), consider who is most able, willing, skilled, and emotionally prepared to assist. Then identify how other siblings will contribute in time or money. "After you and your siblings agree to the roles you will play, have a family meeting" with your siblings, parents, other concerned relatives, and friends to clarify the situation, work out conflicts, and set up a care plan. You most likely will need more than one meeting to address everyone's concerns and achieve your goals. "During the meeting do the following: Set an agenda and keep to it. Focus on now and going forward, try not to bring up the past or unrelated issues. "Ask everyone to share their feelings about the situation and their concerns. Listen and respect the opinions of all participants." Give everyone time to speak. Share all information. If possible, get a professional assessment of your parent's condition from a doctor, social worker, or geriatric care manager and send the report to all participants before the meeting. "If the meeting is likely to be contentious, or if you want someone objective to guide the meeting, ask a social worker, counselor, geriatric care manager, or trusted outside party to serve as facilitator who will ensure all participants have a chance to be heard." "Most importantly, respect that your brothers and sisters might have different ideas about the care your parent needs. It's hard to accept that your parent needs help. Unless there's a sudden crisis like a stroke, adjusting to this new reality takes time. Some adult children will need to work through their denial that anything serious is wrong. Others might feel reluctant to get involved, fearing they are 'meddling' in their parent's life. "As time goes by, use email, online care-sharing tools, conference calling, and in-person family meetings to help keep everyone abreast of care issues and share updates. With frequent and varied communication modalities, together you'll all be able to work through the differences that arise, address changing needs, and provide the best care your parent needs. Sun, 08 Oct 2023 01:31:42 GMT http://thedenverhospice.org/blog/14945/Successful-Parent-Caregiving-with-Your-Siblings http://thedenverhospice.org/blog/14944/A-Guide-for-Scheduling-Your-Mental-Health-Day blog In honor of mental health day next week, have YOU thought about taking a mental health day? Ironically, if you follow the ideas below for when to take a mental health day, October 10 may not be the day. However, follow these tips to choose a time for a day to yourself without adding additional stress. Check your calendar for a slower day "Plan something you absolutely love doing, that way you'll be less tempted to cancel "Work with a colleague or two to cover for you while you're out and have only one person email or text you only if something critical arises Put the name and contact information of the colleague helping on your out-of-office message Trust your colleague, let go so you can enjoy your day Now you need to figure out how to spend your mental health day to get the most out of it and to not think about work." Here's what not to do: "Leave the day open "Binge your streaming service "Errands "Do things on your to do list "Here's what to consider when planning a day to look forward to so you can rejuvenate. Select an activity that makes you feel great and one in which you lose all track of time (get lost in the flow). Spend time outdoors Go to a yoga or meditation class Spend time with a friend or family member who energizes you, not drains you Learn something: practice an instrument, take a class Travel to the town next to yours Take your kids out of school and try something new or do your favorite activity when you're together " Enjoy the new energy and new feeling you receive when you take care of yourself. It's the best thing you can do for yourself and others. Fri, 29 Sep 2023 09:21:12 GMT http://thedenverhospice.org/blog/14944/A-Guide-for-Scheduling-Your-Mental-Health-Day http://thedenverhospice.org/blog/14943/Gratitude-for-Keeping-the-Clinical--Wheels-on-the-Bus- blog 'We can coordinate the patient care and the day-to-day operations of the health care setting without help,' said no clinical team member EVER!" "As we celebrate National Health Unit Coordinators Week, we need to thank our coordinators for: Scheduling patient admissions and discharges from hospitals." Maintaining accurate and organized patient health records. Helping patients fill out their paperwork and answering questions about care facility procedures. Communicating important information about care requirements to patients, their family, and their medical team." Planning events that bring joy to patients and staff. Stocking the office with pens, functional computers, hand sanitizer, medical masks, and other medical equipment. Welcoming patients, answering questions, and answering the phone cheerfully. "We are so glad to have coordinators as critical members of the health care team, their organizational skills and friendly disposition are priceless. Thu, 24 Aug 2023 06:05:37 GMT http://thedenverhospice.org/blog/14943/Gratitude-for-Keeping-the-Clinical--Wheels-on-the-Bus- http://thedenverhospice.org/blog/14942/Granting-Wishes--Dani-s-Journey-to-the-Magic-of-Aladdin blog In the heart of Colorado, amidst the beauty of the Rockies, a young soul named Danijela Belo, affectionately known as Dani, left an indelible mark on the world around her. Born in June of 2005, Dani's life journey was one of strength, resilience, and boundless love. Dani's life took an unexpected turn at the age of 11 when she was diagnosed with CNS Neuroblastoma in June 2016. She embraced the difficulties of the treatment with a fortitude that contradicted her young age. By January 2017, she emerged triumphant from her first battle with the disease, only to encounter a relapse in August 2018. Throughout it all, Dani's spirit remained strong. In December of 2021, Dani's journey led her to enroll in the Footprints pediatric program of The Denver Hospice. She continued to shine brightly while surrounded by her family, spreading her contagious laugh and steadfast love. Her hobbies and delights were recognized at the hospice, which evolved into a haven of solace. Dani's loves were as diverse as they were heartwarming. She adored classic 80's rock, the grace of ballet, and the world of books. Her creative soul found expression through drawing and coloring, and she found solace in TV shows that celebrated artistry, like "Ink Master," "Face Off," and "Skin Wars." Her heart skipped a beat for Disney princess movies, "The Simpsons," and the timeless charm of "Peanuts." Her love of animals, particularly horses and her devoted German Shepherd, Zoja, demonstrated her unending compassion. The magic of Christmas and the sight of snowflakes brought joy to her heart, but nothing compared to the happiness she felt when surrounded by her family. She effortlessly sang lines from well-loved films, filling the room with laughter as she did so, spreading joy wherever she went. Even in the midst of hardship, Dani's dreams persisted in being bright. For her high school graduation, she expressed a longing to see the Broadway production of "Aladdin." Through the kindness of Christopher's Angels Fund, Dani's wish came true. Four tickets to the show, a gift card for concessions, and a warm welcome from the Denver Performing Arts Center and the Broadway cast of "Aladdin" transformed her dream into a cherished memory. The gifts, which included blankets, t-shirts, and a signed picture from "The Genie," gave an extra element of magic. On August 14, 2023, Dani's earthly journey came to an end. Even if her outward presence may have diminished, those who were touched by her brightness continue to carry her spirit in their hearts. Dani's tale serves as a reminder that despite obstacles, love, laughter, and dreams may shine brighter than before, leaving a lasting impression for everybody to treasure. For more information about Christopher's Angels Fund click here. Click here for information about our annual Poker Run to help fund Christopher's Angels Fund. Tue, 22 Aug 2023 04:24:27 GMT http://thedenverhospice.org/blog/14942/Granting-Wishes--Dani-s-Journey-to-the-Magic-of-Aladdin http://thedenverhospice.org/blog/14941/Honoring-Parents-Day--Celebrating-Their-Love-and-Encouraging-Advanced-Directives-for-End-of-Life-Decisions blog Parents are the guiding light in our lives, offering unconditional love and support. On July 23, we have the opportunity to celebrate their remarkable presence on Parents Day. While appreciating their role, it is crucial to acknowledge the significance of advanced directives for end-of-life decisions. Let us explore how honoring our parents can be intertwined with the importance of planning for the future. Parents Day allows us to express our deep appreciation for the sacrifices our parents have made. From our earliest days, they provided us with love, care, and guidance, shaping us into the individuals we are today. Whether they are present physically or remain in our hearts as memories, it is important to cherish the immeasurable impact they have had on our lives. Taking the time to honor them strengthens the bond we share and creates lasting memories that can be cherished forever. As we celebrate Parents Day, it is essential to acknowledge the significance of advanced directives, which serve as a proactive approach to end-of-life decisions. These legal documents outline an individual's wishes regarding medical treatment and appoint a healthcare proxy to make decisions on their behalf when they are unable to do so. By discussing and documenting their preferences in advance, parents can ensure that their desires are respected and their loved ones are relieved of the burden of making difficult decisions during a challenging time. Honoring our parents extends beyond celebrating their presence; it involves engaging in open and honest conversations about their end-of-life preferences. By discussing topics such as medical treatments, resuscitation, and life support, we demonstrate our respect and commitment to fulfilling their wishes. These conversations can foster understanding, eliminate uncertainty, and provide a sense of peace for both parents and their children. By encouraging these discussions and promoting the creation of advanced directives, we demonstrate our love and concern for our parents' well-being. Parents Day is a special occasion to honor the immeasurable love and support our parents provide. By intertwining this celebration with the importance of advanced directives, we can facilitate conversations about end-of-life decisions, ensuring that our parents' wishes are respected. Let us cherish our parents and empower them to have a voice in their healthcare, even during the most challenging times. Sun, 23 Jul 2023 05:23:48 GMT http://thedenverhospice.org/blog/14941/Honoring-Parents-Day--Celebrating-Their-Love-and-Encouraging-Advanced-Directives-for-End-of-Life-Decisions http://thedenverhospice.org/blog/14940/The-Wind-Phone--A-Beacon-of-Hope-in-Hospice-Care blog In the heart of the Susan M. Law Therapeutic Play Area at a hospice facility, an unassuming old telephone stands as a powerful symbol of connection and healing. This phone, known as the "wind phone," holds a special purpose, providing solace and comfort to grieving children who have lost a parent, sibling, or loved one. In a remarkable twist of fate, a bird has chosen to build its nest on the wind phone, bringing new life into the midst of a place often associated with farewells. This intriguing juxtaposition serves as a poignant reminder of the delicate balance between life and death, and the profound importance of the wind phone in the context of hospice care. Sue Farnsworth, Volunteer and Bereavement Manager and the visionary behind the wind phone, recognized the need for children to process their grief in a unique and meaningful way. Inspired by the "wind phone" in Otsuchi, Japan, which became a symbol of healing after the devastating tsunami in 2011, Sue installed a similar phone in the Law play area. Children are encouraged to "call" their deceased loved ones on the wind phone, allowing them to express their emotions, share stories, and seek solace in their loss. The wind phone serves as a tangible connection between the living and the departed, offering a safe space for children to navigate the complex terrain of grief. It provides a sense of closure, enabling them to express their love, regrets, and unspoken words, while finding comfort in knowing that their messages are somehow reaching their loved ones. Amidst the somber setting of a hospice facility, the arrival of a nesting bird and the imminent birth of its offspring on the wind phone presents a captivating contrast. The bird's decision to create a nest signifies hope, resilience, and the circle of life. It serves as a visual reminder that even within the realm of death and mourning, new beginnings can emerge. This captivating contrast encourages deep contemplation and introspection, prompting us to ponder the inherent duality of life'where joy and sorrow, birth and death, coexist. It underscores the interconnectedness of all living beings, as the wind phone becomes a conduit not only for the children to reach the departed but also for the bird to nurture new life. The wind phone's installation in the the Susan M. Law therapeutic play area has had a profound impact on the overall well-being of the children in hospice care. It provides them with a unique outlet for their grief, enabling them to express their emotions openly and without judgment. By encouraging communication with the deceased, the wind phone helps children process their feelings, find closure, and develop healthy coping mechanisms. Moreover, the presence of the nesting bird on the wind phone serves as a gentle reminder to the children that life continues, even in the face of loss. It offers a sense of hope, resilience, and renewal, reinforcing the notion that grieving is a natural part of the human experience and that healing can coexist alongside sorrow. The wind phone at The Denver Hospice is more than just an old telephone'it is a powerful symbol of connection, healing, and resilience. By allowing children to express their grief and maintain a connection with the deceased, it offers a unique and therapeutic outlet for their emotions. The unexpected presence of a nesting bird and the forthcoming birth of new life on the wind phone highlights the delicate balance between life and death, inspiring contemplation and reflection. Ultimately, the wind phone and its remarkable juxtaposition of new life at a hospice serve as a poignant reminder of the importance of embracing both the joys and sorrows that life brings. Fri, 14 Jul 2023 01:00:07 GMT http://thedenverhospice.org/blog/14940/The-Wind-Phone--A-Beacon-of-Hope-in-Hospice-Care http://thedenverhospice.org/blog/14932/The-Indispensable-Role-of-Certified-Nursing-Assistants-in-Hospice-and-Palliative-Care blog Hospice and palliative care play a crucial role in providing comfort and support to individuals with life-limiting illnesses. These specialized forms of care prioritize the physical, emotional, and spiritual well-being of patients and their families. Among the dedicated healthcare professionals who make a significant impact in this field are Certified Nursing Assistants (CNAs). CNAs are the unsung heroes who work tirelessly to ensure the highest quality of care for patients, fostering compassion, empathy, and dignity during the most challenging times. In this blog, we will explore the importance of CNAs in hospice and palliative care and the invaluable contributions they make to the lives of those they serve. Personalized Care and Support: Certified Nursing Assistants are at the forefront of delivering personalized care to patients in hospice and palliative care settings. They develop close relationships with patients, understanding their unique needs, preferences, and goals. CNAs provide assistance with daily activities such as bathing, dressing, grooming, and feeding, ensuring the highest level of comfort and dignity for patients. By addressing both the physical and emotional needs of individuals, CNAs play a pivotal role in enhancing their overall quality of life. Patient Advocacy: In hospice and palliative care, CNAs act as advocates for patients, becoming their voice when they are unable to express their desires or concerns. They observe patients closely, monitoring changes in their condition and promptly reporting any concerns to the interdisciplinary care team. CNAs play an essential role in maintaining effective communication between patients, families, and the healthcare team, ensuring that everyone is on the same page regarding the patient's care plan. Emotional and Psychological Support: Facing end-of-life challenges can be an incredibly emotional and psychologically demanding experience for patients and their families. CNAs possess a unique ability to provide empathetic support during these difficult times. They offer a comforting presence, lending an ear to patients and their families, and providing reassurance and companionship. CNAs often develop deep bonds with patients and offer a compassionate presence, reducing feelings of isolation and fear. Enhancing Quality of Life: The primary goal of hospice and palliative care is to enhance the quality of life for patients in their final stages. CNAs play a vital role in achieving this goal by focusing on improving comfort and reducing pain. They work closely with the interdisciplinary team, including nurses and physicians, to ensure the patient's pain management plan is effectively implemented. By providing compassionate care, CNAs contribute significantly to alleviating physical discomfort and promoting a sense of peace and well-being. Bereavement Support: The impact of hospice and palliative care extends beyond the patient's passing. CNAs often develop deep connections with patients and their families, making them well-positioned to provide bereavement support. They continue to offer emotional support to families, lending a compassionate ear and helping them navigate the grieving process. CNAs play a crucial role in providing comfort and stability during this challenging period of transition. Certified Nursing Assistants are invaluable members of the hospice and palliative care team, bringing immense compassion, empathy, and skill to the forefront of patient care. Their contributions go beyond physical assistance, as they provide emotional support, advocate for patients, and improve their overall quality of life. CNAs truly embody the spirit of selflessness and compassion, making a lasting impact on the lives of those they serve. As we recognize the vital role of CNAs in hospice and palliative care, let us appreciate and support these dedicated professionals who make a significant difference in the lives of individuals during their most vulnerable moments. Fri, 16 Jun 2023 01:03:55 GMT http://thedenverhospice.org/blog/14932/The-Indispensable-Role-of-Certified-Nursing-Assistants-in-Hospice-and-Palliative-Care http://thedenverhospice.org/blog/14931/The-Healing-Power-of-Music--A-Bagpipe-Performance-at-Our-Care-Center blog The Denver Hospice recently had a heartwarming experience that reminded us of the incredible power of music. A patient had requested bagpipe music to be played for them, and we were thrilled to be able to make that happen. As the bagpipe music echoed through the courtyard, we saw the impact it had on both our inpatient care center patients and staff. Despite the challenges and difficulties that come with providing care, this moment of joy and connection was a reminder of why we do what we do. Music has a special way of connecting us all, even in the hardest times. It can bring comfort, hope, and healing to those who are struggling. For our patients and their families, these moments of joy and connection are priceless. At The Denver Hospice, we are grateful to be able to provide these moments for our patients. We believe that music is an essential part of the healing process, and we will continue to do everything we can to bring joy and comfort to those in our care. In the end, the bagpipe performance was a beautiful reminder of the power of music to bring us all together. It was a moment that we will never forget, and we are grateful to have been a part of it. Fri, 09 Jun 2023 01:53:37 GMT http://thedenverhospice.org/blog/14931/The-Healing-Power-of-Music--A-Bagpipe-Performance-at-Our-Care-Center http://thedenverhospice.org/blog/14930/Rocky-Mountain-Refuge-to-Host-Golf-Tournament-June-21st blog Rocky Mountain Refuge is the only shelter in Colorado that offers round-the-clock custodial family style care, where people experiencing homelessness are kept safe and comfortable and can receive hospice care from our partner agencies. To help support the care provided by Rocky Mountain Refuge, they are hosting a golf tournament fundraiser on June 21st. This date was chosen as the longest, brightest day of the year to remember the light of the lives of the folks who have passed with us. Rocky Mountain Refuge is looking for both sponsors and individual golfers to join us and help support our mission to offer a dignified alternative to dying alone on the street for those with terminal illness. More information is available on the Rocky Mountain Refuge website at www.rockymountainrefuge.org/ Fri, 02 Jun 2023 07:33:04 GMT http://thedenverhospice.org/blog/14930/Rocky-Mountain-Refuge-to-Host-Golf-Tournament-June-21st http://thedenverhospice.org/blog/14929/Care-Synergy-Launches-Nursing-Assistant-Training-Program----Participants-Can-Complete-Training-in-Two-Weeks blog The Care Synergy network of home healthcare, hospice and palliative care providers along the Front Range of Colorado is launching a Nursing Assistant Training Program. The Program will begin on May 8, 2023, and will offer two-week training programs for those seeking certification as a Certified Nurse Aide (CNA). Training classes will be held in collaboration with The Denver Hospice, an Affiliate agency within the Care Synergy family of companies, at their hospice inpatient care center located at 8289 E. Lowry Boulevard, Denver, CO, 80230." The hands on, clinical training portions of the two-week class will be completed at Holly Heights Nursing Care Center at 6000 E. Iliff Avenue, Denver, CO, 80222. Taught by experienced hospice and palliative care educators and RNs, the Program can be completed in only two weeks." With successful completion, participants will be prepared to take the state required examinations to receive certification as a CNA. Because these classes are being offered by Care Synergy, those seeking employment as a CNA can be hired by The Denver Hospice or the Colorado Visiting Nurse Association, prior to receiving their CNA certification." Those hired in training roles will be paid to attend classes, receive free tuition for the two-week class and, upon successful completion and certification, will be hired as a CNA at either The Denver Hospice or Colorado VNA." Certain conditions apply to receive pay as a trainee and free tuition. For more information, and to register for classes, please visit www.caresynergynetwork.org/cnatraining/ Information is also available through The Denver Hospice, www.thedenverhospice.org/cnatraining and the Colorado Visiting Nurse Association, www.vnacolorado.org/cnatraining Wed, 03 May 2023 03:26:40 GMT http://thedenverhospice.org/blog/14929/Care-Synergy-Launches-Nursing-Assistant-Training-Program----Participants-Can-Complete-Training-in-Two-Weeks http://thedenverhospice.org/blog/14928/Hospice-Provider-Profit-Status-and-the-Impact-of-Quality-of-Care-Reported-by-Caregivers blog Hospice care began as a community-based service, largely provided by volunteers, aiming to transform end-of-life care to holistically meet the needs, preferences, and goals of dying people and their families. Since the inception of the Medicare Hospice Benefit, 'any willing provider' has been permitted to participate, regardless of profit status. This has been vigorously debated with some arguing that expansion of for-profit hospices was needed, while others argued that profit incentives could threaten quality of care. Since 2015, the Centers for Medicare & Medicaid Services (CMS) has required eligible hospices to collect data on patient and family experiences of hospice care using the Consumer Assessment of Healthcare Providers and Systems (CAHPS) Hospice Survey. This data, routinely collected by thousands of hospices across the US, offer the opportunity to systematically measure and compare the patient- and family-centeredness of care, a core element of hospice care quality. CAHPS information shows caregivers whose family members received care from a for-profit hospice reported significantly poorer experiences than those whose family members received care from not-for-profit hospices. In a cross-sectional study of CAHPS data, family members and friends of patients receiving hospice care reported substantially worse care experiences in for-profit compared with not-for-profit hospices. This is documented in a study recently published in a Journal of American Medical Association study https://jamanetwork.com/journals/jamainternalmedicine/fullarticle/2801753 proving that continued oversight of hospice quality performance and refinement to payment incentives are needed as the hospice market continues to expand.. Fri, 17 Mar 2023 12:34:19 GMT http://thedenverhospice.org/blog/14928/Hospice-Provider-Profit-Status-and-the-Impact-of-Quality-of-Care-Reported-by-Caregivers http://thedenverhospice.org/blog/14926/Empathy-Releases-Report-on-the-Annual-Costs-of-Dying blog Empathy is a platform helping families navigate the journey they face after the loss of a loved one. Recently, Empathy released its annual report, The Cost of Dying which reveals new insights into the costs of a death in the family in the United States today, with a special focus on its impact on employees' sense of wellbeing in the workplace. The report includes key findings on the financial, logistical, and emotional impact loss has on bereaved families, as well as reflections from a dozen eminent experts in the end-of-life space. Empathy's data-driven insights highlight the need for comprehensive bereavement support, especially in workplaces, to counter the administrative, emotional, and financial obstacles faced by those grieving. To read more about the report by Empathy click here Fri, 17 Feb 2023 02:04:09 GMT http://thedenverhospice.org/blog/14926/Empathy-Releases-Report-on-the-Annual-Costs-of-Dying http://thedenverhospice.org/blog/14927/Five-Ways-to-Show-Your-Loved-One-in-Hospice-That-You-Care blog Beginning in February, there is an undeniable rush of activity as we get ready for Valentine's Day in many facets of our life, whether at home, at work, or in school. Purchasing a Valentine's card or gift for a loved one receiving hospice or palliative care this month may be a nice gesture, but there are a lot of other heartfelt ways to let a hospice patient know how much they mean to you. Here are five ways to show someone you care this Valentine's Day through acts of kindness and love. Decorate Their Room for Valentine's Day to Brighten It Up Giving someone a Valentine's Day room makeover can be a thoughtful and original way to lift their spirits. Holiday-themed decorations (even outside of Valentine's Day) are an easy way to break up the monotony that hospice patients may face sitting in their room because many hospice patients don't get much change of scenery on a daily basis. Before hanging your Valentine's Day decorations, be mindful of anyone who may have a sensitivity to the color red. Your loved one will still know how much you care and will ideally find a welcome sense of comfort and cheer in their daily routine even if you need to utilize different hues like lavender or pink. Keep up Current Holiday Traditions It's crucial to maintain traditions, whether it's Valentine's Day or another holiday, especially when offering end-of-life comfort care. The knowledge that their illness is disrupting the lives of their loved ones is among the worst emotions a hospice patient may experience. Find a way to include them in your customs on important occasions like Valentine's Day so that you may continue the practice. A Dose of Extra One-on-One Time Valentine's Day is about showing your loved ones that you care, therefore for a patient who is unable to go out on a date or purchase a card or gift for their family, it may be a very challenging day. Spend more time this month visiting a loved one who is receiving hospice care, especially on the day of the holiday. Look for strategies to extend your trips. Bring pictures, engage in board games, or request personal narratives from them. You'll probably discover that making these pleasant memories has been as beneficial to you as it has been to them. Create a Special Trip Even if they are receiving hospice care, many patients can still do and experience a lot. Find something your loved one likes and schedule a Valentine's Day date to do it together if that is the case. Visit someone they haven't seen in a long time or take them to a favorite location. When they bring gifts to their other hospice caregivers, think about going with them. Bring the "outing" to them if they are unable to leave the house; invite a friend over, watch a movie, or prepare a special Valentine's dinner or meal. The Little Things Go a Long Way Consider helping with routine care tasks as a Valentine's Day suggestion and act of kindness because a hospice patient may find it difficult to provide personal care. Receiving services for their hair, nails, or cosmetics can be quite uplifting for people emotionally. For patients receiving care at home, try changing the bedding, cleaning the windows, or setting their bedside table clear. Sometimes helping out with even the tiniest activities may be a great way to show someone you care. Thu, 09 Feb 2023 09:58:19 GMT http://thedenverhospice.org/blog/14927/Five-Ways-to-Show-Your-Loved-One-in-Hospice-That-You-Care http://thedenverhospice.org/blog/14925/Pam-Keith-Celebrates-Recovery-After-Receiving-Specialized-Care-from-The-Denver-Hospice-and-Support-of-Family blog Pam Keith was born and raised in Denver." In 1983, Pam joined the Army and was deployed from Fort Bragg to Iraq where she served in operation Desert Storm. Pam remained in the Army until 1992." Following her military service, Pam started a program with the Veterans Administration ' helping veterans transition back into life following service and attaining employment. She helped veterans with mental illness, substance abuse and those with disabilities and, in the course of her time with the VA became a 'life coach'. In March of 2022, Pam became gravely ill, with a damaged liver, gall bladder infection and kidney failure." In August, doctors were preparing Pam to go home with hospice care. Hospice care was something Pam was aware of as she had become familiar when an uncle needed hospice care and she toured The Denver Hospice's inpatient care center." She found the inpatient care center peaceful and calming When she was referred to hospice herself, she transferred from the VA hospital, in Aurora, to The Denver Hospice inpatient care center With the help of her husband of 30 years, Sean, and family, Pam began to show signs of improvement and was allowed to go home." Her husband and family would not let her 'give up' and helped her to exercise when possible. Within three months she was walking again, eating on her own and learning to take care of herself." Within months of being referred to the inpatient care center at The Denver Hospice, Pam was discharged from hospice care ' no longer needing end-of-life care. It took a team of family members to bring her back to where she is and she 'finally felt loved' and 'in control of her life'. Thu, 02 Feb 2023 07:01:47 GMT http://thedenverhospice.org/blog/14925/Pam-Keith-Celebrates-Recovery-After-Receiving-Specialized-Care-from-The-Denver-Hospice-and-Support-of-Family http://thedenverhospice.org/blog/14923/It-is-Never-too-Late-to-Say--Thank-You--to-Our-Nation-s-Veterans--Even-at-the-End-of-Life blog Americans across the country celebrate Veterans Day on November 11." This is a special day to salute the people who have bravely served our country in the military. Veterans have made profound sacrifices in defense of freedom, and they deserve our heartfelt thanks and appreciation. Honoring our Veterans includes supporting them throughout their entire lives, especially at the end. As our nation marks Veterans Day, The Denver Hospice has deepened its commitment to increase Veterans' access to specialized, compassionate, high-quality care. In collaboration with the VA, The Denver Hospice is a five-star partner of the We Honor Veterans program." Through this program, we have provided education and training to our staff, the community and our referral partners to raise awareness of the unique needs of our nation's Veterans who are facing a life-limiting illness. Through our We Honor Veterans program, The Denver Hospice can accompany and guide Veterans and their families toward a more peaceful ending. And in cases where there might be some specific needs related to the Veteran's military service, combat experience or other traumatic events, our care teams will find tools to help support those they are caring for. WeHonorsVeterans.org There is also something that all of us can do to honor and serve our Veterans ' that is to say, 'Thank You.'" Not just on November 11 but - all year long. Ask your friends, neighbors, co-workers, and others in your community whether they have served in the military (you may be surprised how many have)'and thank those who have served for their sacrifice. A generation of World War II and Korean War Veterans are facing end-of-life care decisions now, and they are quickly being followed by younger Vietnam War Veterans, many of whom are confronting serious illnesses at an even earlier age. It surprises many Americans to learn that every day, 2,000 Veterans die. That is more than 730,000 Veterans every year ' or 25 percent of all the people who die in this country annually. The liberty that we, as Americans, enjoy comes at a price paid by these valiant men and women. Let each of us make sure we do our part to recognize and support them throughout their lives. If you know a Veteran who needs the special care hospice and palliative care brings to people facing serious and life-limiting illness, please reach out and help them learn more about care options. Information is available on our website at Veteran's Hospice Program Thu, 10 Nov 2022 07:00:41 GMT http://thedenverhospice.org/blog/14923/It-is-Never-too-Late-to-Say--Thank-You--to-Our-Nation-s-Veterans--Even-at-the-End-of-Life http://thedenverhospice.org/blog/14922/November-is-National-Hospice-and-Palliative-Care-Month blog Throughout the month of November, Then Denver Hospice will be joining organizations across the nation in celebrating National Hospice and Palliative Care Month. For more than 40 years, hospice has helped provide interdisciplinary, supportive care to millions of people, allowing them to spend their final months wherever they call home and surrounded by their loved ones. Hospice teams craft plans of care that ensure pain management, therapies, and treatments all centered on the patients' and their loved ones' goals and wishes. Hospice care also provides emotional support and advice to help family members become confident caregivers and adjust to the future with grief support for up to a year. 'At the heart of hospice is meeting patients and their loved ones where they are during difficult times when support is needed most,' said Ben Marcantonio, COO and Interim CEO of the National Hospice and Palliative Care Organization (NHPCO). 'National Hospice and Palliative Care month recognizes the crucial role hospice and palliative care providers play in caring for their communities year-round.' Each year, over one million Medicare beneficiaries receive care from hospices across the United States. When a patient is not eligible for hospice care, they may benefit from community-based palliative care, often offered by hospice providers. Palliative care is patient and family-centered care that optimizes quality of life by anticipating, preventing, and treating suffering. Palliative care throughout the continuum of illness also involves addressing physical, intellectual, emotional, social, and spiritual needs and facilitates patient autonomy through access to information and choice. For more information about hospice, palliative care, and advance care planning please contact The Denver Hospice at 303-418-3000 or on NHPCO's CaringInfo.org. Fri, 04 Nov 2022 01:56:00 GMT http://thedenverhospice.org/blog/14922/November-is-National-Hospice-and-Palliative-Care-Month http://thedenverhospice.org/blog/14921/Save-the-Date-for-Colorado-Gives-Day- blog Save the Date! The Denver Hospice is excited to announce Colorado Gives Day is set for Tuesday, Dec. 6, 2022. For 24 hours, Colorado comes together to raise fund raise funds for local nonprofits, and we're excited to be part of the day! On Colorado Gives Day, we invite you to join us by making a donation, helping us share the news about Colorado Gives Day and invite your family, friends and your personal network to participate. Early giving begins November 1 and you can schedule your gift anytime leading up to Colorado Gives Day. Every gift is tax-deductible and helps us to continue our mission. This day of giving is one of the many ways you can make a real difference. We look forward to having you join us for Colorado Gives Day. Please visit https://www.coloradogives.org/organization/Denverhospice"for more information about what we do and how you can support us. Thank you. Fri, 28 Oct 2022 06:19:30 GMT http://thedenverhospice.org/blog/14921/Save-the-Date-for-Colorado-Gives-Day- http://thedenverhospice.org/blog/14920/5-Reasons-Why-You-Should-Plan-Ahead-for-the-End-of-Life blog Guest blog by Karen Wyatt MD for The Denver Hospice When you dare to think ahead to the last days of your life (if you dare to think about that), what do you imagine? If you are like 70% of Americans, you dream of spending your final days at home, in peace and comfort, surrounded by loved ones who care for you compassionately until your last breath. But in reality, even though most people would prefer to die peacefully at home, 70% actually die in a hospital, nursing home or long-term care facility. Why is it that so few people are able to realize their dream? The problem lies in the fact that most people have not planned ahead and taken steps to make their wishes known. Since we live in a society that generally avoids the subject of death, we fail to have the conversations that would inform other people of our desires and we don't do the work required to establish a legal basis for our wishes. Even if you are uncomfortable with the subject of death and would rather not think about your own last days, there are very compelling reasons why you need to overcome your fears. And as for timing, it's never too early to start planning because there are no guarantees for the future. Here are 5 reasons to start planning for the end-of-life now: " " " " 1. Preserve your financial legacy. According to a survey from RocketLawyer.com about 41% of baby boomers don't have a will and half of all Americans die without a legal will in place. If this is true for you, it means that at the time of your death the state you live in will determine how your assets are distributed among your survivors, based on the laws of your state. In addition, without an estate plan a significant portion of your estate can be lost to taxes. Protect your assets and make sure they go where you want them to by creating an estate plan. " " " " 2. Protect your minor children. The same survey from RocketLawyer.com has found that 55% of Americans with children don't have a will and have not named a legal guardian for their children under age 18. In this case, once again, the state will determine who receives custody of the children if both parents die, which could be disastrous and traumatic for everyone concerned. This pain can be avoided by taking the steps to name a guardian now and protect the welfare of your children. " " " " 3. Get the kind of care you want at the end-of-life. According to the California HealthCare Foundation, surveys have shown that less than 1/3 of Americans have completed advance directives, which provide instructions to healthcare professionals on the type and extent of care to be delivered in a life-threatening situation. When you don't have a living will or other form of advance directive, in the event of a healthcare crisis, you are likely to receive aggressive, full treatment, which you may not really want. Take the time to complete a legal document now that provides instructions for your healthcare at the end-of-life ' this step will ultimately save energy, resources and stress for your survivors. " " " " 4. Be remembered as you would like to be by your loved ones. "If you have strong feelings about how you would like to be memorialized and what type of disposition you prefer after death, you must make your wishes known to your family so that they can be carried out. You can make arrangements in advance for your own funeral and leave detailed instructions so your loved ones will know what to arrange for you. " " " " 5. Lessen the stress for your loved ones. Grief over losing a special person is difficult enough to deal with, but can be significantly complicated when conflicts arise over how to handle financial, healthcare, or after-death arrangements. You can save your loved ones from this type of stress by communicating your wishes clearly now, leaving detailed instructions, and creating the necessary legal documents to ensure your desires are met. So the evidence is clear that you should start planning now for the end-of-life to make sure you have the peace of mind that you hope for during your last days of life. If you need more information about the steps you should take and how to create the documents you need, check out other posts on this blog or visit the Education section on www.TheDenverHospice.org. About the Author: (Dr. Karen Wyatt is a hospice and family physician and the author of the award- winning book '7 Lessons for Living from the Dying.' She is also to host of the popular podcast End-of-Life University. Learn more about her work at www.eoluniversity.com.) http://finance.yahoo.com/blogs/the-exchange/half-americans-set- die-without-193140015.html Wed, 28 Sep 2022 03:55:39 GMT http://thedenverhospice.org/blog/14920/5-Reasons-Why-You-Should-Plan-Ahead-for-the-End-of-Life http://thedenverhospice.org/blog/14919/The-Denver-Hospice-Receives--8-000-from-the-12th-Annual-Poker-Run-to-Support-the-Christopher-s-Angels-Fund blog The Denver Hospice was recently presented with $8,000 from the organizers of the 12th Annual Poker Run that was held on August 28. This year's Poker Run started at The Denver Hospice's main campus at 8299 E. Lowry Blvd., with 100 motorcycle riders more than 130 total participants enjoying breakfast and tours of the The Denver Hospice campus." Highlights of the half-day event included door-prizes, a 50/50 Raffle and a silent auction. This annual fundraising event has raised over $80,000 throughout its 12-year history to support terminally ill pediatric patients and their families. 'The Denver Hospice is grateful for the ongoing support of the Poker Run organizers and the many riders who have participated throughout its history,' stated David Giordano, Vice President of Philanthropy for The Denver Hospice. 'The funds raised for the Christopher's Angels Fund will help with the non-medical needs of the many patients and families served by The Denver Hospice. Things like groceries, gas, transportation, utilities, and other basic needs. We especially want to thank the organizer, Susan Dane, for her many years of commitment to the Christopher's Angels Fund and helping families,' added Giordano. Founded by Bob and Donna Johnson, the Christopher's Angels Fund was created in memory of their son, Christopher, who died in the care of The Denver Hospice when he was two years old. The Johnsons struggled financially during Christopher's illness and were offered no resources to help. They hoped that by creating this fund they could ease the financial stress on other families coping with terminal illness. For more information about the Christopher's Angels Fund, please visit"www.thedenverhospice.org/giving/christophers-angels-fund/ "About the Denver Hospice: The Denver Hospice is the region's leading, largest and most trusted not-for-profit provider of life-enhancing hospice and palliative care. That means we offer more expertise, more resources and a more complete continuum of compassionate care to patients facing life-limiting illnesses and end-of-life transition. For more information, visit"TheDenverHospice.org. About Care Synergy:" Care Synergy provides mission-support services for not-for-profit, community-based home healthcare, hospice and palliative care providers serving the Front Range of Colorado including the Colorado Visiting Nurse Association, The Denver Hospice, Pathways and Pikes Peak Hospice and Palliative Care." Care Synergy affiliate organizations operate as distinct organizations while sharing best practices and helping more Coloradoans. For more information, visit www.caresynergynetwork.org Mon, 12 Sep 2022 09:09:05 GMT http://thedenverhospice.org/blog/14919/The-Denver-Hospice-Receives--8-000-from-the-12th-Annual-Poker-Run-to-Support-the-Christopher-s-Angels-Fund http://thedenverhospice.org/blog/14918/12th-Annual-Poker-Run-to-Raise-Funds-for-Christopher-s-Angels-Fund blog Friends of The Denver Hospice will celebrate and support the Christopher's Angels Fund with their 12th annual Poker Run on August 28, 2022 The 2022 Poker Run will start at The Denver Hospice's main campus at 8299 E. Lowry Blvd., with registration, breakfast and tours of the The Denver Hospice campus. Highlights of the half-day event include a door prizes, a 50/50 Raffle and a silent auction. The amazing list of door prizes includes multiple dinners and overnight stays at mountain casinos, leather riding jackets, passes to Comedy Works, and many other gifts. The entry fee is $25 for early registration or $30 for day of registration." Extra poker cards can be purchased for $5 each. For more information and to register for the Poker Run, please visit https://thedenverhospice.org/giving/2022-poker-run/ This annual fundraising event has raised over $80,000 in the past to support terminally ill pediatric patients and their families. Founded by Bob and Donna Johnson, the Christopher's Angels Fund was created in memory of their son, Christopher, who died in the care of The Denver Hospice when he was two years old. The Johnsons struggled financially during Christopher's illness and were offered no resources to help. They hoped that by creating this fund they could ease the financial stress on other families coping with terminal illness. For more information about the Christopher's Angels Fund, please visit www.thedenverhospice.org/giving/christophers-angels-fund/ Fri, 12 Aug 2022 05:19:05 GMT http://thedenverhospice.org/blog/14918/12th-Annual-Poker-Run-to-Raise-Funds-for-Christopher-s-Angels-Fund http://thedenverhospice.org/blog/14917/Getting-to-Know-the-Hospice-Team blog Guest blog for The Denver Hospice By Karen Wyatt MD If you or a loved one are enrolling in hospice for care through the end of life it is helpful for you to be familiar with the group of providers who will be working with you. Hospice is a unique form of healthcare that focuses on care for the whole person'body, mind and spirit. To provide this extraordinary level of care requires a team of highly trained individuals, who will be available to you if you wish to receive their support during your time with hospice. The members of this special team play different roles in patient care and all of them meet and confer together to create an overall plan that makes sure that none of the patient's needs are overlooked or neglected. Here are the members of the hospice team and the type of care they each provide: "Nurse The nurse serves as case manager for the patient, assessing the needs of the patient during visits that take place weekly or more frequently, as needed. The nurse is responsible for making sure that the goals of care are being met and communicates with the doctor and other team members to make any needed adjustments in care and symptom management. The hospice will have a nurse on-call on evenings and weekends who can answer your questions and respond to any emergencies. Doctor While your own doctor can continue to be involved in your care, the hospice will also provide a physician with special training in pain and symptom management. This doctor will be responsible for certifying that you are eligible for hospice care, prescribing any needed medications or treatments, supporting the other team members, and participating in decision-making and team meetings. The hospice nurse communicates regularly with the doctor to make important decisions about medical care for each patient. Home-health Aide "The home health aide provides essential help with personal care needs like bathing, dressing and grooming. They also teach family members safe practices for tending to their loved one and can assist with light household tasks if needed. The aide may visit several times a week and often becomes one of the favorite team members for patients and their families. Home health aides are described as the 'unsung heroes' of hospice care because their hands-on work brings tremendous comfort and wellbeing to the people they serve. Social Worker Hospice social workers play many different roles in service of patient care. They help patients and families plan ahead for the end of life, assess and manage the emotional and psychological welfare of the patient, provide information regarding financial and caregiving support, and connect patients and families with community resources. You may see a social worker once or many times during your experience with hospice depending on the specific needs of your family. Chaplain The role of the hospice chaplain is to assist with the spiritual needs of the patient, whether or not the patient has any religious affiliation or beliefs. Chaplains are trained to provide non-denominational care and to help patients prepare for the end of life by finding meaning and value in life itself. They can offer patients and families tools for coping with loss and grief, as well as resolving some of the unfinished issues of life. Often chaplains provide bereavement services for the family after their loved one has died. Volunteer "The hospice volunteer is one of the most special members of the team. Volunteers are often assigned to patients with whom they have something in common so that a natural and comfortable bond can form. The volunteer can serve as a companion for the patient, talking or reading or playing music, which gives family caregivers an opportunity for a brief respite. They might also assist by running errands or helping with light tasks around the house. Volunteers receive special training to do this work and are an essential source of support for patients and families. There is no other system of medical care that offers such comprehensive and inclusive support as that given by the hospice team. You will be able to utilize as much or as little care as you prefer, but it's important to know that each member of the team plays a special and unique role that offers essential benefits. Hospice team-based care has been described as 'the best care possible' for those facing the end of life and now you can see why that is true. Tue, 26 Jul 2022 05:51:16 GMT http://thedenverhospice.org/blog/14917/Getting-to-Know-the-Hospice-Team http://thedenverhospice.org/blog/14916/Michael-Krause-Enjoys-a-Special-Day-with-the-Rockies blog Ask anyone who knows him, and they would describe Michael (Mike) Krause as one of the biggest sports fans in the world. His basement is a shrine to all things sports and one of his favorite sports teams is the Colorado Rockies. Knowing what a huge fan Mike is of the Rockies, his neighbor (Savannah) set out to find a way for Mike to enjoy a special day with his most favorite team. Mike has a brain tumor that is limiting his abilities and he and his family are receiving services from The Denver Hospice. A day with the Rockies would bring such relief and happy memories for Mike and his entire family. Savannah, wanted to create that special memory for Mike and his family and her perseverance paid off. "All Star outfielder, Charlie Blackmon responded to Savannah and, with his assistance, Mike was set to join the Rockies on May 31 to watch batting practice on the field and spend time with team members and coaches. What no one could predict at the time is that a late Spring snowstorm would change the original plans. The snowstorm postponed the game which meant there would be no batting practice. Determined to not let Mike down, and have the experience he was anticipating, the Rockies stepped up and created a special time even though there would be no game that day. Rockies' ambassadors Kelly Hall and Jim Kellogg and Manager Bud Black went well above and beyond to ensure Mike and his family would have a wonderful time. Spending one-on-one time with Mike, the Rockies staff and team members took him on a guided tour of Coors Field, the media room, the dugout, and many other places creating a wealth of memories for Mike and his family. Mike's brother, Andy, and his family drove from Dallas to be with Mike on this day."It was Andy's goal to push Mike around the bases."They did not get to go around the bases, but they did get to go all around the perimeter of the field and that was close enough! After the experience was completed, Mike's daughter, Jamie created a book of memories that Mike cherishes stating, 'This was one of the best days of my life.' Thank you to the entire Rockies organization for creating a special day and memories for Mike and his family they will never forget. Fri, 08 Jul 2022 02:14:17 GMT http://thedenverhospice.org/blog/14916/Michael-Krause-Enjoys-a-Special-Day-with-the-Rockies http://thedenverhospice.org/blog/14915/Hospice-and-Palliative-Care-License-Plate-Now-Available-to-Colorado-Drivers blog The new Hospice & Palliative Care License Plate debuts on"July 1, 2022. Colorado drivers will now have another license plate option." During the most recent legislative session that ended in early May, the state legislator passed a law creating a new hospice and palliative care license plate intended to raise awareness of this important health care for people facing serious illness. You can show your support for hospice and palliative care workers and families how have been touched by this valuable care by placing the new plate on your vehicle (motorcycles included). A portion of the cost will benefit the Colorado Center for Hospice & Palliative Care, a nonprofit that supports hospice education. 'Hospice and palliative care workers are heroes, bringing comfort, support and presence to individuals and families facing an often-difficult journey,' said Care Synergy President and CEO Tim Bowen. Bowen testified in support of the bill at its first hearing in the House Transportation and Local Government Committee this past March. 'There are too many Coloradans who get hospice care much too late,' said Bowen. 'The purpose of this opportunity is to help fund education and awareness throughout the state to provide better access and more timely access to care.' The proceeds from the special license plates will fund awareness and education initiatives including professional development for health care workers who support hospice and palliative care patients, as well as public campaigns aimed at connecting more families and their loved ones with end-of-life care. Care Synergy is thankful to the bill's sponsors for their efforts to help more Coloradans receive expert, compassionate care during a life-limiting illness. After July 1, visit the Homecare and Hospice Association of Colorado at www.homecarehospicecolorado.org/ for more information." You"do not"have to be an HHAC member or work at a hospice to have the"Hospice & Palliative Care License Plate. Fri, 01 Jul 2022 02:27:07 GMT http://thedenverhospice.org/blog/14915/Hospice-and-Palliative-Care-License-Plate-Now-Available-to-Colorado-Drivers http://thedenverhospice.org/blog/14914/The-Denver-Hospice-Raises-More-Than--100-000-for-Footprints-Children-s-Services-through-Heart-of-Hospice-Tribute-Dinner blog The Denver Hospice raised over $100,000 through its semi-annual Heart of Hospice tribute dinner on Thursday, June 16. Proceeds from the event will go to support the Footprints Children's Services program. Footprints Children's Services, a program of The Denver Hospice, provides palliative, hospice, and grief care to pediatric patients ages 0 to 19, filling a vital role for young people and their families in the Denver metro area." The Footprints team of caregivers consists of a pediatrician, nurse practitioner, child life specialists, registered nurses, Chaplains, massage therapists, social workers, and volunteers. This year's event featured a tribute to rancher, adventurer and philanthropist Amy Davis who was the posthumous recipient of the Heart of Hospice award. Amy's altruism has allowed many people in Wyoming and Colorado to experience a wonderful quality of life. She supported numerous causes, focusing on educational scholarships and healthcare including a strong commitment to hospice and palliative care. Amy passed away at the age of 86 in 2014 and her legacy is still felt today with the ongoing support of the Inpatient Care Center and the Amy Davis Hospice Support Center at The Denver Hospice. 'The Denver Hospice is grateful for the generous support of our donors and the community. This year's Heart of Hospice event was a great success in raising much needed funds for the Footprints Children's Services program and raising awareness of these vital services available in the Denver metro area,' stated Melinda Egging, President of The Denver Hospice. The Denver Hospice is the area's leading, largest, and most trusted not-for-profit provider of life-enhancing hospice and palliative care. Its Denver campus includes the new Amy Davis Hospice Support Center with dedicated children's and family counseling areas including a therapeutic playground. For more information about the Heart of Hospice Tribute dinner and to view video presentations from the event please visit https://thedenverhospice.org/giving/heartofhospice/ Presenting sponsors for this year's Heart of Hospice event were the Florence S. and William J. Cabaniss Advised Fund and the Patten-Davis Foundation. Fri, 24 Jun 2022 06:40:58 GMT http://thedenverhospice.org/blog/14914/The-Denver-Hospice-Raises-More-Than--100-000-for-Footprints-Children-s-Services-through-Heart-of-Hospice-Tribute-Dinner http://thedenverhospice.org/blog/14913/Heart-of-Hospice-Gala-to-Support-Footprints-Children-s-Services blog The Denver Hospice will host the Heart of Hospice event on Thursday, June 16 beginning at 6:00 p.m. at the Hyatt Regency, 650 15th Street in Denver. The annual gala event will feature live music, cocktails, dinner and a program with tributes to Amy Davis, a video highlight of the Footprints Children's Services program and, a special feature on one of the amazing children who receives care and services from The Denver Hospice. This year's event will honor philanthropist Amy Davis for her commitment to hospice and palliative care.'� Proceeds from the event will benefit the Footprints Children's Services program of The Denver Hospice.'� The Denver Hospice, the area's leading, largest and most trusted not-for-profit provider of life-enhancing hospice and palliative care. Its Denver campus includes the new Amy Davis Hospice Support Center with dedicated children's and family counseling areas. Footprints Children's Services provides hospice, palliative and grief care to pediatric patients ages 0 to 19, filling a vital role for young people and their families in the Denver metro area." The Footprints team of caregivers consists of a pediatrician, nurse practitioners, child life specialists, registered nurses, Chaplains, massage therapists, social workers and volunteers" Presenting sponsors for the Heart of Hospice event are the Florence S. and William J. Cabaniss Advised Fund and the Patten-Davis Foundation. Wed, 18 May 2022 05:42:51 GMT http://thedenverhospice.org/blog/14913/Heart-of-Hospice-Gala-to-Support-Footprints-Children-s-Services http://thedenverhospice.org/blog/14912/The-Grief-You-Feel-Before-a-Loved-One-Dies blog Guest blog by Karen Wyatt MD for The Denver Hospice We are all familiar with the fact that people experience grief after the death of someone close or following other major losses. But it is also possible to have similar painful feelings before a loved one has died, especially for those providing care to a person at the end of life. Grief therapists refer to this as anticipatory grief and even though it is a normal process, many people don't recognize it when it occurs. Anticipatory grief may arise from the awareness that death is near for the loved one and time is slipping away. There are also cumulative daily losses that occur in one's relationship with a dying person, such as the physical and social activities that are no longer possible to share together. But during the hectic and stressful routine of caregiving the presence of grief may go unnoticed. The emotional symptoms of anticipatory grief include sadness, tearfulness, anxiety, anger and guilt, among others. There can also be a sense of loneliness even though the loved one is still present. Some people find themselves feeling irritable and resentful, but don't recognize what is causing those feelings. Anticipatory grief can also cause physical symptoms like headaches, fatigue, loss of sleep and difficulty concentrating. One of the challenges to coping with anticipatory grief is the fact that there is little support available from others. While friends and family may rally and show up to offer help after a death has occurred, they are not likely to recognize anticipatory grief or to reach out with the same level of concern. So here are some tips for dealing with anticipatory grief if you are experiencing it: Have compassion for yourself When you understand why your symptoms are present it can help you stop judging yourself for any negative feelings that may arise, like anger or resentment. Anticipatory grieving comes from the love you feel for the person you are caring for and that love is not diminished even if you feel challenging emotions right now as a caregiver. This is a normal experience so be gentle with yourself. Talk about it Find people to talk to who can relate to what you are going through. Seek out a support group for caregivers or talk with a therapist or spiritual counselor about your feelings. If you are working with a hospice team the chaplain or social worker can offer you helpful resources and all other team members are also trained to understand your feelings of grief. Ask for help Your need for self-care is extreme during times of anticipatory grief so find ways to get more support from the people in your life. Reach out to people in your close inner circle to let them know that you are going through a difficult time. Ask them to be there for you and let them know some specific things they could do to help like bringing in food, running errands or giving you some respite time. Work on your relationship "One hidden aspect of anticipatory grief may be regret or resentment over old issues from the past that have never been addressed. This may be the right time to focus on forgiveness and resolution with your loved one who will also benefit from this type of emotional healing. Process your own emotions first and try to see the conflicts of the past from a bigger vantage point: as part of the path you and your loved one have shared together. Old grievances don't define who we are right now in the present moment, they are simply stories of things that once happened. Create meaningful moments Even though your relationship has changed because of your loved one's illness you can still find meaningful ways to spend time together. Share stories of favorite times in the past, watch a program together, read poetry or a book aloud, enjoy a simple meal, or record greetings to send to people who are far away. You can also make a photo album or scrapbook together as a keepsake for future generations. Plan for the future As difficult as it may seem, talking about what the future holds can bring a great deal of relief to both the patient and caregiver. First you might discuss the healthcare wishes of your loved one and then talk about the funeral or memorial service and disposition after death. In addition you may talk about what life will be like for you and other survivors after the death and make sure that proper estate planning has been done. Many people find new peace of mind once these conversations have taken place. While anticipatory grief is a normal experience, it is distressing and painful to go through. If you begin talking about it you may find that others close to you are feeling grief too and sharing the journey will be helpful to all of you. In the end anticipatory grief can serve as a reminder that life is short for all of us and we should use our time well while we are here. That is the potential gift that lies within these challenging experiences of life and loss. Fri, 06 May 2022 09:57:32 GMT http://thedenverhospice.org/blog/14912/The-Grief-You-Feel-Before-a-Loved-One-Dies http://thedenverhospice.org/blog/14911/The-Denver-Hospice-Earns-Recognition-in-NHPCO-s-Quality-Connections-Program blog The National Hospice and Palliative Care Organization (NHPCO) recently named the member organizations who recently earned rings in the inaugural year of its Quality Connections program. "Launched by NHPCO in January of 2021, Quality Connections (QC) is designed to enhance the knowledge base, skills, and competency of hospice and palliative care professionals and providers for continuous quality improvement." QC is structured around four fundamental pillars which are represented by four quality rings: Education, Application, Measurement, and Innovation. "Hospice providers who actively engage in quality improvement raise the bar for performance which leads to service excellence. "'To simply say that a hospice organization is interested in quality is not enough. A hospice must demonstrate its commitment to patient- and family-centered care with measurable results and outcomes. One of the most effective ways to do this is through active participation in NHPCO's Quality Connections,' said NHPCO President and CEO Edo Banach." 'As we share the results from the first year of Quality Connections, we are able to shine a light on hospice organizations that have made significant strides in improving their quality of care. This matters to patients, families, payers, and providers, and I congratulate the providers that participated.' Of the 244 hospice organizations that embarked on a continuous quality improvement journey in 2021, only 117 programs around the country earned rings reflecting their success in Quality Connections." In Colorado, four programs earned quality rings." The Denver Hospice, Sangre de Cristo Hospice and Abode earned two rings and Pathways earned one ring. 'The Denver Hospice continues to be committed to our community and to improve quality care for every patient and family we have the privilege to care for." Engaging in the quality connections program, even during a pandemic, reflects the commitment of our amazing team for excellence and ongoing process improvement' said Melinda Egging, President of The Denver Hospice. Additional information about Quality Circles is available at NHPCO at https://www.nhpco.org/nhpco-celebrates-hospice-providers-successfully-earning-quality-connections-rings-in-2021/ Wed, 27 Apr 2022 04:12:17 GMT http://thedenverhospice.org/blog/14911/The-Denver-Hospice-Earns-Recognition-in-NHPCO-s-Quality-Connections-Program http://thedenverhospice.org/blog/14910/Celebrating-the-Gifts-of-Hospice-Volunteers blog The Denver Hospice Honors its Volunteers during National Volunteer Week, April 17 ' 23 National Volunteer Week provides the opportunity to recognize the millions of Americans who provide volunteer service in communities across the country. At The Denver Hospice more than 147 trained volunteers give selflessly to help people with a serious or life-limiting illness and their families. Our volunteers are making a difference by providing everything from companionship for patients, respite for family caregivers and loved ones, making calls to those who are bereaved and experiencing grief and helping with administrative and fundraising tasks." Volunteers are an essential part of the team at The Denver Hospice." They enable The Denver Hospice"to provide the best care possible to patients and families. By sharing their time, energy, and expertise, our volunteers bring compassion and caring to the lives of those in need. We celebrate them not only during National Volunteer Week but every day. It is federally mandated under Medicare that five percent of all patient care hours in hospice be provided by trained volunteers, reflecting the vital role that volunteers play in the provision of care. But even if the integration of volunteers was not required, we would still consider them critical members of our team. Our community is a better, more compassionate place because of their service." Interested in learning more about hospice or volunteer opportunities, please visit https://thedenverhospice.org/giving/volunteer/ Sat, 16 Apr 2022 09:55:05 GMT http://thedenverhospice.org/blog/14910/Celebrating-the-Gifts-of-Hospice-Volunteers http://thedenverhospice.org/blog/14909/National-Healthcare-Decision-Day---April-16 blog Advance care planning addresses the health care you would want to receive in a medical crisis ' based on your values, preferences, and conversations with your loved ones. While there's much we can't control, we can make informed decisions to give the people closest to us the power to confidently make health care decisions for us in the event that becomes necessary. All adults should make time for these conversations, but they're especially important for those who are over 60 years old and are living with chronic health conditions such as heart, lung or kidney disease or cancer. National Healthcare Decisions Day (NHDD) exists to inspire, educate and empower everyone about the importance of advance care planning. NHDD is an initiative to encourage patients to express their wishes regarding healthcare and for providers and facilities to respect those wishes, whatever they may be. Being in charge of your health care decisions is beneficial in several ways. Not only does it bring us a sense of peace but also gives direction to our loved ones and caregivers. The health care decisions that have been expressed by an individual and written down officially will serve as the instruction for future events and take off the onus of decision-making from the family and loved ones. They are not left guessing what you might have wanted and can rest assured that they have fulfilled your desires by following the instructions that you have provided through the complete advanced directive. These decisions that you make today will ensure you and your family a better tomorrow. NHDD brings together various healthcare organizations and providers, communities, and religious institutions to work together by allowing them to independently work for the benefit of families and patients. For more information visit https://www.fivewishes.org/national-healthcare-decisions-day/ Interesting Facts On National Healthcare Decisions Day: Few Facts Related To National Healthcare Decisions Day Nathan Kottkamp the founder of NHDD is part of the law firm, McguireWoodsLLP The Conversation Project is the managing body for the NHHD events and regulates its finances and structure, as of June 2016. Five wishes are one of the most popular Advance Directive which encompasses personal, emotional, and spiritual concerns in addition to healthcare decisions According to the conversation Project national Survey conducted in 2018, it is estimated that only 32% of the Americans have discussed their end-of-life care wishes even when 92% of the Americans agree that it is an important factor to discuss. Mon, 11 Apr 2022 07:58:25 GMT http://thedenverhospice.org/blog/14909/National-Healthcare-Decision-Day---April-16 http://thedenverhospice.org/blog/14908/Comfort-Animals--and-their-handlers--Returning-to-The-Denver-Hospice---More-Needed blog Before the COVID pandemic, volunteer teams of therapy animals and their handlers regularly visited The Denver Hospice's inpatient care center located at 8299 E. Lowry Boulevard in Denver. As the pandemic begins to wane, volunteers and therapy animals are returning but more are needed. 'In general, our volunteer program took a bit of a dip during the pandemic,' said Kristen Coleman, the volunteer coordinator for Denver Hospice. Coleman said many of the volunteers are older and may be immunocompromised, making them weary about coming back to the building with their animals." As CDC guidance has changed, previous restrictions have lessened on volunteer visitations. Currently volunteers and visitors continue to be screened for COVID symptoms and wear a mask per CDC guidance. All staff members of The Denver Hospice and any volunteers who work there must be vaccinated. 'We're starting to feel a bit normal again and volunteers want to give back'more than ever,' Coleman said. Julie Schwarz has volunteered at Denver Hospice for years, most of the time with a partner: Ollie Jingles. Ollie is an 8-year-old Brussels Griffon who is certified as a therapy dog. 'There have been times that he's actually taken me into a room,' Schwarz said. 'And one of the times the hospice patient had passed just within minutes in the bed and there was a woman sitting in the chair and he went right over to her.' 'The first time we ever volunteered there was a little girl about 8-years-old in the hall crying and her family was inside. So, we just sat on the floor and hung out with her, so she wasn't alone.' Schwarz said she's noticed fewer animal teams on the volunteer sign-up sheet since she began returning to the hospice." 'I know there are people who got dogs during the pandemic,' she said. 'I feel like they're missing out on the opportunity to give back.' The Denver Hospice requires volunteers bringing therapy animals to have a certification or have intent to get one. You can find out more about volunteer opportunities at https://thedenverhospice.org/giving/volunteer "Denver Pet Partners, a local nonprofit that certifies therapy animals, said it has seen a slump in volunteers during the pandemic, though they said they have more volunteers now. If you're interested in using their training services you can find more information at https://www.denverpetpartners.org Fri, 25 Mar 2022 02:14:09 GMT http://thedenverhospice.org/blog/14908/Comfort-Animals--and-their-handlers--Returning-to-The-Denver-Hospice---More-Needed http://thedenverhospice.org/blog/14907/The-Denver-Hospice-Scores-Among-the-Top-as-a-Hospice-Provider-in-Metro-Denver-on-the-Medicare-CAHPS-Survey blog The quality of patient care that hospices provide to patients and families can vary. Therefore, The Centers for Medicare & Medicaid Services (CMS), the federal agency that runs the Medicare program, created Hospice Compare to present patients, family members, and health care providers with data on quality measures reported on each provider. Hospice Compare reports information on patient caregiver experiences from hospices across the nation allowing anyone to compare a hospice's scores to national survey scores. The Consumer Assessment of Healthcare Providers and Systems, or CAHPS, Survey is a national survey that scores patient caregiver experiences with hospice care on important measures. Those measures include how well the hospice communicated with the family, treated the patient with respect, and how they rated the hospice overall, amongst others. In the most recently reported CAHPS scores, The Denver Hospice presents as a top performer in the metro Denver area on all eight areas measured by CMS for the reporting period of July 1, 2020 through March 31, 2021. For more information visit"www.medicare.gov/care-compare/ Fri, 18 Mar 2022 09:10:43 GMT http://thedenverhospice.org/blog/14907/The-Denver-Hospice-Scores-Among-the-Top-as-a-Hospice-Provider-in-Metro-Denver-on-the-Medicare-CAHPS-Survey http://thedenverhospice.org/blog/14906/How-to-Set-Healthy-Boundaries-as-a-Caregiver blog Guest blog by Karen Wyatt MD for The Denver Hospice If you are one of the 53 million family caregivers in the U.S. who provide care at home to a loved one, you already know that this task is challenging. No doubt you have already felt the impact of chronic stress on your own health and wellbeing. Caregiving is a never-ending responsibility that changes from moment-to-moment and constantly surprises you with new dilemmas you feel unprepared to handle. Most caregivers have had little or no training for the tasks they must perform and end up learning 'on the job', which adds to the stress of each situation. You've probably also heard many suggestions for self-care as a caregiver, like taking time for yourself to relax, exercise, eat a healthy diet, get a massage, and on and on. But the reality for caregivers is that there are not enough hours in the day to incorporate all of those beneficial self-care routines while you also complete the work required to care for your loved one. However it's important to consider a compromise and find small ways to conserve your energy. When you are healthier and happier you will be a more efficient and positive caregiver for your loved one. Here are some steps toward creating and maintaining healthy boundaries and finding little moments of time for your own wellbeing: Make a list of all the tasks you do in one day "Include things like grocery shopping, preparing meals, doing laundry, and housecleaning along with organizing medications, giving a bed bath, assisting with grooming, dressing and bathroom needs for your loved one. Put down everything you can think of, even picking up mail, paying bills or taking out the trash. "Make a list of possible helpers For this list go beyond the obvious close family members who may already be helping as much as they can. Think about extended family, friends, club or church members, community service organizations, old acquaintances of your loved one. Put every name on the list you can think of and don't reject anyone because you fear they would say no'for now you are just brainstorming all of the people in your expanded social circle. List any special skills of your helpers "Who on your list of helpers loves cooking or is good at bookkeeping or does small home repair jobs? Who loves to tell stories or is a great listener or has retired and has extra time on their hands? Begin to see how some people in your greater social circle may actually enjoy helping you with small tasks from time to time. Get used to asking for help Most of us have a hard time admitting that we need help and even more difficulty asking others to help us. It's important to give yourself permission to ask for help and to remember that other people actually like feeling useful and being of service. But your potential helpers will need to know specifically what you need from them in order to say yes. Choose one task'like getting a few groceries for you'and have a list ready for your potential helper. Then simply ask 'I need these items from the store'could you get them for me when you go shopping?' Don't apologize "We often fear being a burden to other people and that holds us back from asking for help when we need it. But everyone needs help at one time or another and there's no reason to apologize or feel guilty for reaching out. The more you learn to simply ask for help when you need it the stronger your ability to protect and preserve your energy will become. Identify your essential 'soul' needs 'Soul' time refers to those simple activities that help you feel most like yourself and most alive. For one woman I know it's going out in the woods by her house for just a few minutes that helps her feel refreshed and in love with life. For another it's drinking a cup of coffee and reading the newspaper, or listening to a favorite song, or looking at a garden. Choose one 'soul' time activity and figure out how to incorporate it into your day. Tell your loved one, if possible, that you need some time to yourself each day for your health and ask them to help you accomplish that. They need to know that you are not superhuman and that you have needs that matter too. Take a 'self-compassion break' The Greater Good Science Center has studied the benefits of taking a few moments to treat yourself with compassion whenever you are having a difficult day. In the midst of the struggle, stop briefly and say to yourself, 'This is a moment of suffering.' Then say, 'Suffering is a part of life.' Next put your hands over your heart and say 'May I be kind to myself.' This simple little break can help shift you into a more positive mindset and stop you from beating up on yourself when something has gone wrong. When you begin to set better boundaries and protect your energy you will become more efficient in the tasks you undertake and less exhausted by the work you do. Start with one small change each day and then gradually expand your ability to care for yourself while you care for your loved one. And remember to ask for help often so that others get used to the idea that you have needs too. Fri, 04 Mar 2022 06:10:02 GMT http://thedenverhospice.org/blog/14906/How-to-Set-Healthy-Boundaries-as-a-Caregiver http://thedenverhospice.org/blog/14905/The-Denver-Hospice-partners-with-Rocky-Mountain-Refuge-to-serve-the-Terminal-Homeless blog Denver area neighbors with a terminal illness who are experiencing homelessness now have an alternative to dying on the street. The Rocky Mountain Refuge for End-of-Life Care (Refuge) has opened a shelter arranged through the Denver Rescue Mission at its facility in the Northeast Park Hill area of Denver. The Refuge will provide a stable, appropriate environment for The Denver Hospice to deliver specialized end-of-lifecare to homeless neighbors." Residents will be referred by Denver Hospice; one of two not for profit hospice organizations providing onsite hospice services." Staff and volunteers of the Refuge will provide personal and hygienic care, companionship for all residents and facility cleaning. The story of 'Jim' illustrates why a shelter like the Refuge is sorely needed ' One day, Jim's friends found he had passed away by his cart on the side of the road not far from the overpass where he camped." Logan Robertson, Pastor/Director of after Hours Denver, who knew Jim, said 'He died with dignity because he lived with dignity." But he deserved to die in a bed, with a blanket over his body, a roof over his head, and someone to care for his hurts and listen to his fears.'" No one should die alone and unsheltered." The Refuge works to give stories like Jim's a different ending. The Denver Hospice has long cared for homeless patients in the community." Melinda Egging, President of The Denver Hospice shared, 'We are so grateful for the great work and the resource that the Rocky Mountain Refuge provides to the community." Every person deserves to die with dignity'" In addition to support from Denver Rescue Mission, the Refuge launch has been helped by a major grant from the Daniels Fund and generous support from Circle of Life Hospice Project, Swisslog Healthcare, the Gill Foundation, St. Andrew's Episcopal Church, St. Timothy's Episcopal Church, and Trinity United Methodist Church. For more information, including volunteer and donor opportunities, visit https://rockymountainrefuge.org/ Tue, 01 Mar 2022 06:02:09 GMT http://thedenverhospice.org/blog/14905/The-Denver-Hospice-partners-with-Rocky-Mountain-Refuge-to-serve-the-Terminal-Homeless http://thedenverhospice.org/blog/14904/Special-Dates-for-Sarah blog The staff of The Denver Hospice recently arranged two very special 'dates' for one of their patients ' Sarah. Sarah is only 22 years old and comes from a large family of eight siblings. Unfortunately, Sarah has a life-limiting cancer diagnosis and two of her final wishes was to have Holiday Tea at The Brown Place and attend a sporting event. When the staff at The Denver Hospice became aware of this, they reached out to their network and arranged two very special outings for Sarah. Tea at The Brown Palace In late December, Sarah and five of her siblings were invited to a VIP tea at The Brown Palace in Denver. Sarah and her family enjoyed tea under the holiday decorations and a had a grand time. A Colorado Avalanche Game In January, Sarah was also treated to a special date courtesy of the Colorado Avalanche. Her day-long adventure included flowers delivered by Avs alumni and a pre-game date with dinner, valet service to the game, gift bags, and a suite at the game for Sarah and her loved ones. There was even a visit from Avs legend, Joe Sakic, who provided an autographed jersey and Bernie, the Avs mascot.Both outings were well beyond Sarah's expectations of a date, due to the work of the caregivers at The Denver Hospice. The Denver Hospice would like to thank the generous staff at The Brown Palace and the Colorado Avalanche for making these two very special outings possible for Sarah. Thu, 03 Feb 2022 05:46:39 GMT http://thedenverhospice.org/blog/14904/Special-Dates-for-Sarah http://thedenverhospice.org/blog/14903/The-Denver-Hospice-Announces--Take-Care-of-You---Scheduling--to-Provide-RNs-Additional-Time-Off blog The Denver Hospice is implementing a new way for RN Case Managers and Admissions RNs to schedule their time and provide care for patients and families." The new employment program is called "Take Care of You ' Scheduling' and it will provide RN Case Managers and Admissions RNs with additional time off to balance work and life responsibilities. The "Take Care of You ' Scheduling" program allows hospice RN Case Managers and Admissions RNs who work for any of the three Affiliate organizations to be scheduled 72 hours in a pay period and receive their full salary of 80 hours in that same pay period." It can be used as an afternoon off each week or a day off every other week, based on the preference of the team member. "Take Care of You ' Scheduling" gives these employees an additional day off every two weeks ' for a total of 26 additional days per year ' in addition to their PTO, to use however they like." In addition, sign on bonuses also apply to some RN roles. For more information about Take Care of You ' Scheduling, please visit www.thedenverhospice.org/join-our-team/ or contact Care Synergy's Human Resources team at (303) 780-4600. Thu, 20 Jan 2022 11:28:24 GMT http://thedenverhospice.org/blog/14903/The-Denver-Hospice-Announces--Take-Care-of-You---Scheduling--to-Provide-RNs-Additional-Time-Off http://thedenverhospice.org/blog/14902/How-to-Plan-Ahead-Now-for-Later-Life blog As another new year begins you should consider adding a plan for later life to your list of goals and resolutions for 2022. Studies have shown that people who have planned in advance for the end of their lives spend less time in the hospital, receive fewer intensive treatments, and have greater quality of life when they reach their final days. In addition, their loved ones experience less stress, anxiety, and depression during those challenging days. At this time more Americans than ever are completing estate plans and healthcare directives, which will help ensure that their wishes are carried out when they approach the end of life. The best time to do advance care planning is right now, as soon as the thought occurs to you. Then you will have your choices in writing no matter what happens, since life has its own set of uncertainties. The wishes you express now can always be updated whenever your health status or your preferences change. Here are some steps to get your own planning started: 1. Set up a will and estate plan It's important to meet with your financial manager and attorney to protect your assets for the future. Even if it seems too early to make these decisions now, getting your preferences in writing is essential to avoid complications and hassles for your loved ones in the future. Again, you can change these documents at any time if new circumstances arise. 2. Choose a healthcare proxy No matter your age or health status, you should designate someone you trust to make healthcare decisions for you if you are ever unable to speak for yourself. This person will be responsible for understanding your wishes and making sure they are carried out, so it's important to choose someone capable of fulfilling this role. Talk to the person you've chosen to make sure they are willing and also choose two other people who can fill in if your first choice is unavailable for some reason. 3. Think about your preferences Spend some time contemplating the healthcare decisions that could arise at the end of your life, but don't get lost in the details. You can't possibly imagine all of the potential scenarios that might occur in the future, but you can ask yourself some general questions. Ideally, where would like to be at the end of life and who would you like to be with you? How would you feel about being kept alive on life support such as a ventilator? Answering these questions now to the best of your ability will help you inform your healthcare proxy of the choices you would prefer if a drastic emergency arises. 4. Learn about care options for advanced illness Get informed now about the benefits of utilizing palliative care and hospice care for serious and advanced illness. Find out what types of care are available in your community and learn more at these websites: www.palliativedoctors.org and www.caringinfo.org. 5. Obtain the Advance Directive Form for your state This is the legal document you will need to complete in order to make your wishes known and designate your healthcare proxy. The form varies from state to state so make sure you know the requirements for your state. You can also choose the Five Wishes form, which is legally valid in most states and can travel with you if you live in multiple places. Visit the website www.fivewishes.org to learn more about it. 6. Talk to your healthcare provider Your personal medical provider can help you make decisions and offer you advice on any health issues you are currently facing. If you are receiving medical care on a regular basis your provider should be informed of your wishes and also have a copy of your Advance Directive on file. 7. Talk to your loved ones This final step is perhaps the most important of all. When your loved ones know and understand your wishes for later life they are much more likely to make sure those wishes are carried out. In addition conflicts can be avoided if each person hears directly from you what your preferences are, rather than trying to figure out what you would want in the middle of a crisis. While it may seem unnecessary or too early to think about these steps, studies have shown that people who complete this type of planning experience greater peace of mind as they grow older and face later life. Consider reviewing these plans every 5 years or whenever you experience a change in your health status. The evidence is clear that the time you spend now to plan ahead will help ensure that your wishes are met and your loved ones avoid unnecessary conflict as you reach the last days of your life. Wed, 12 Jan 2022 07:57:34 GMT http://thedenverhospice.org/blog/14902/How-to-Plan-Ahead-Now-for-Later-Life http://thedenverhospice.org/blog/14901/Tips-for-Dealing-with-Tragedy blog Tips for Dealing with Tragedy (For Adults) Limit exposure to disturbing media coverage. If you feel agitated, overwhelmed, or shut down it may be a sign that your nervous system has had enough. If you find yourself frozen in front of the TV, it's probably a sign that you need to turn it off! Take care of your body. Shock often makes us less aware of our basic needs. You still need to nourish your body with food and sleep. If a regular meal seems impossible, try small, nutritious snacks. Stay hydrated. Take frequent breaks and try to get some sleep. Seek safety. Identify the people places, objects and routines that make you feel secure and embrace them. You may find that you need periods of cocooning- wrapping yourself in safety- to cope with what has happened. Breathe deeply. Placing a small pillow on your belly and breathing deeply so that your breath pushes the pillow out is a quick way to teach yourself diaphragmatic breathing. Move your body. When animals experience something frightening or traumatic, they literally shake it off. Setting your body in motion sends it a signal to release tension and allows the experience to move through you. Sustained exercise releases endorphins. Accept and express your feelings whatever they may be- hurt, anger, fear, numbness, compassion. There is no right way to feel when a tragedy occurs. Affirming your authentic experience will allow you to process more naturally. Let the feelings come and go without judgment or clinging. Be aware that a tragic event can stir up earlier losses and traumas that may need tending. Reach out to loved ones, friends, colleagues, etc. Human beings are social animals. We naturally come together to support one and other in times of crisis. Seek out the support available in your community. Find out where support groups and counseling are available. Lean on your faith community and/or spiritual beliefs if you have them. Pray, mediate and/or send healing thoughts to all those affected. Also be aware that it is very common for people to question their beliefs in the face of incomprehensible events. Give yourself permission to keep living. It's okay to go on enjoying life when there is a tragedy in the community. Don't feel guilty for laughing or doing the things you love. Notice the good that is all around you. The darkest, most violent, and senseless acts always seem be followed by countless spontaneous expressions of selflessness, courage and compassion- the best we human beings have to offer. Let yourself take in that goodness. Tips for Dealing with Tragedy (How to Support Children) Don't repeatedly watch news accounts about the tragedy. Children especially don't need to see graphic images that will likely continue to play over and over in their heads. Talk about the event as a family and encourage your kids to express their feelings. Don't assume you know how they feel. They might be afraid or just curious. If they are afraid, ask what they are afraid of. Let them know that you're going to protect them, they're safe, Colorado is safe, and this was a rare event. Younger kids, especially, need to be reassured that this isn't happening to them and won't happen to them. Parents may feel like they're lying, since no one can ever be 100% sure of what the future holds, but probability estimates are not something small kids can grasp. Keep up a normal routine in your household - play, do fun things, eat well, and do the best you can to sleep well. Establish a bedtime ritual for kids if you didn't have one before, such as read a book or say a prayer together. Have kids sleep with a favorite stuffed animal if they desire. Let younger kids be clingy or stay close to you for awhile if they feel like they need to. For children directly affected by a trauma like this, forms of regression, such as nightmares and bed wetting, are normal for a little while. If you hear older kids talking to their friends about the event, join the conversation. For example, tell them that you're sad or scared and that it's normal to feel that way. Use it as a teaching moment. Talking about tragic events can lead to discussions about how to help others and gives parents an opportunity to model compassion. Have hope. Look for positive ways to get involved in the community's healing process. Thu, 06 Jan 2022 06:22:43 GMT http://thedenverhospice.org/blog/14901/Tips-for-Dealing-with-Tragedy http://thedenverhospice.org/blog/14900/American-Needlepoint-Guild-Makes-a-Heartfelt-Gift blog After Pat Dalton's husband, Kenneth, died at The Denver Hospice in 2014, she wanted some way to give back. 'Everybody was so kind and compassionate,' she said. It wasn't until five years later that she found a way to pay it forward instead. Pat rallied members of the Mile High Chapter of the American Needlepoint Guild to make handmade hearts for future Denver Hospice patients. The project started with the Greater Kansas City Needlepoint Guild in 2015. The Mile High chapter started making their hearts in fall 2019, and members created more than 100 in the year that followed. Chapter president Mindy Slater said Pat created more than half of them herself, and more are in the works." 'I have a personal motivation,' Pat said. 'I think it would have been meaningful to me. I would have appreciated getting a heart, and I think other people will too.' The hearts are intended to serve as 'Do Not Disturb' signs that give family members added privacy in the time surrounding a patient's death. They also serve as a memento that the patient's family can take home." Each heart takes roughly 20 hours of work before being sent to a finisher who stuffs and sews them together. Mindy said each heart is a donation of time and energy ' from the finisher as well as the needlepoint artist. Each comes with a tag with the message: 'Our hearts are with you and your family during this journey.'" Tue, 07 Dec 2021 05:38:39 GMT http://thedenverhospice.org/blog/14900/American-Needlepoint-Guild-Makes-a-Heartfelt-Gift http://thedenverhospice.org/blog/14899/Tips-for-Supporting-a-Veteran-at-the-End-of-Life blog On a recent interview for End-of-Life University Podcast, Qwynn Galloway-Salazar, an end-of-life doula who specializes in veteran care, spoke about the unique needs of those who have served in the military as they enter hospice care. A veteran herself with a PhD in Industrial and Organizational Psychology and Masters Degree in Professional Counseling, Galloway-Salazar points out that the end-of-life care offered to veterans often falls short of their needs, primarily because those who have not served in the military are unaware of the challenges that are common during that experience. Galloway-Salazar shares these suggestions for working with veterans in all aspects of healthcare, but particularly as they approach the end of life: Ask questions about military service Some veterans want and need to talk about their experiences and others prefer to remain silent. Ask questions about branch of service, which conflict they encountered, and if their service was in combat or non-combat to gain an understanding of their history, but be respectful if they choose not to share stories of their military experiences. Screen for mental health issues Veterans are at greater risk for depression, anxiety, substance abuse, suicidal ideation and moral injury so be sure to ask about past mental health history, including post-traumatic stress. Some of the suicide deaths that occur every day for veterans and military personnel in this country could undoubtedly be prevented if better screening were done and these difficult conversations were initiated. Be aware of stoicism when assessing symptoms In the military culture pain and fear are viewed as signs of weakness so some veterans may be reluctant to talk about their symptoms. They may receive inadequate pain management if providers don't recognize this possibility and provide simple tools for symptom evaluation. Using a pain scale and mentioning that pain is a common and expected experience for certain illnesses can help veterans be more open about reporting their symptoms. Be sensitive to shame and survivor's guilt as potential negative emotions Some veterans may withdraw and refuse help when it is offered because they suffer from shame and guilt following their combat experiences. Addressing these emotions openly by providing a safe, non-judgmental space for expression can lead to healing and self-forgiveness. Also family members need help understanding that they may be pushed away because of these negative emotions when they offer assistance to a veteran. Build trust by utilizing veterans as volunteers Military service is a unique experience that only another veteran can truly understand. Recruit and train veterans as volunteers who can sit with veteran patients, peer-to-peer, in order to foster greater trust and a feeling of safety when working with your hospice team. Offer trauma-informed care Recognize that military service can be traumatic for all who take part but women and LGBTQ+ veterans may have experienced additional trauma and assault during their time of service. Be sensitive to the fact that 'non-traditional' veterans may feel invisible and excluded from the care that others receive. Maintain a safe environment for them, be mindful of physical touch that might be triggering, and be fully present and authentic as you offer care. Practice self-care to avoid secondary trauma Working with and hearing the stories of veterans can be traumatic for providers so remember to look after yourself. Find support when needed and have compassion for yourself when you feel overwhelmed and don't know how to help the person you are caring for. As a hospice volunteer and end-of-life doula, Qwynn Galloway-Salazar has seen firsthand that veterans have a better end-of-life experience when care providers are well-informed and sensitive to their needs. On this Veterans Day may we commit to better serve those who have made sacrifices for our freedom as they live out their final days in our care. Tue, 16 Nov 2021 06:32:56 GMT http://thedenverhospice.org/blog/14899/Tips-for-Supporting-a-Veteran-at-the-End-of-Life http://thedenverhospice.org/blog/14898/Finding-Fun-in-the-Most-Serious-Work-in-the-World blog Hospice workers are doing the 'most serious work in the world,' said Ron Culberson, a home care social worker, EMT, speaker and humorist. Despite how serious the work is, 'hospice people get it,' he said, 'they know the need for balance.' Ron visited The Denver Hospice in late September during a staff appreciation day to share what he has learned about balancing the seriousness of the work '" specifically, the importance of finding humor in work and in life. There's a risk of being too serious in the work and losing objectivity, he said.Ron started working in hospice at 25 years old. Then usually the youngest person in the room, he felt he had a special opportunity to learn a lot ' from other staff members and patients alike ' and being so young also gave him a license to have fun. Over the years, he learned that fun can not only help people enjoy their jobs more but also do their jobs better. That's the focus of his book, 'Do it Well, Make it Fun,' which has been shared with The Denver Hospice staff. 'Success isn't about being serious,' he said. 'The Denver Hospice is not the 'most serious hospice.' You'd never put that as your mission statement. You want to be the best hospice. It's about excellence, not seriousness.' That idea applies to people, too. Ron said a lot of people become more 'serious' and leave their inner child behind at some point in their adult life. They'd be better off hanging onto that inner child, instead, he said. Humor can lower stress and help creative and flexible thinking." For example, every joke has a setup and a punchline. The punchline is funny because it gets the listener to think about the setup in a different way '" with a play on words, revealing something that should be obvious or giving a surprise. 'Humor builds,' Ron said. The more you find things funny, the more you find things funny. That can lead people to think more creatively in other situations.Humor can help with stress, too. Stress is not automatically stressful, Ron said. Stress isn't caused by what you're doing or what is happening around you but instead comes from what you think about it. To help with those regular stressors, Ron suggested finding fun, or allowing yourself to have fun, to perform better. When you have fun, you're more likely to do something good for yourself, he said." He referenced Volkswagen's old 'Fun Theory' commercials as an example. Most passengers leaving a Subway station used an escalator, but after giant musical piano keys were installed on the stairs, people started taking the stairs so they could play the piano. Ron encouraged everyone in the room to find more fun in their work for their own sake as well as for their patients. 'We need you to keep doing what you're doing,' he said in closing. 'You're providing something in the community that is so necessary.' Fri, 05 Nov 2021 05:32:28 GMT http://thedenverhospice.org/blog/14898/Finding-Fun-in-the-Most-Serious-Work-in-the-World http://thedenverhospice.org/blog/14897/Sunflower-Day-Provides-a-Bright-Spot-for-Children-with-Illnesses-and-Their-Siblings blog At age 23, Kylie Schwartz was diagnosed with cancer. Although she was an adult, Rocky Mountain Hospital for Children was best equipped to treat the rare form of cancer that typically afflicts children. During her illness, she dedicated herself to help other young people like her. Kylie started a fundraising campaign to raise money for the Child Life Program at Rocky Mountain Hospital for Children. After her death, she continues to help others. Her campaign has continued to grow with community support and now includes The Denver Hospice, which provided her with hospice care, in its list of recipients. Among the latest events was Sunflower Day at Misfit Crew Ranch in Colorado Springs, a refuge for horses and miniature cows that are rescued from kill lots and given another chance at life. Sunflower Day ' a theme inspired by Kylie's love of the flower ' brought together families with children with illness and included a petting zoo with alpacas, horses and miniature cows; music; cupcakes; crafts; and a 'red carpet' horse show." This private event allowed our most vulnerable children and their siblings to enjoy a day at the ranch that they might not have otherwise ever been able to do. After Sunflower Day's success, the owners of Misfit Ranch plan to host other family days for The Denver Hospice's children patients." Fri, 01 Oct 2021 05:32:02 GMT http://thedenverhospice.org/blog/14897/Sunflower-Day-Provides-a-Bright-Spot-for-Children-with-Illnesses-and-Their-Siblings http://thedenverhospice.org/blog/14896/How-to-Be-With-a-Loved-One-in-Their-Last-Hours-of-Life blog Family members I have worked with in hospice have frequently asked me what they should be doing for their loved one as they reach the last hours of life. Since most of us have never been in that situation, we cannot imagine what it may look and feel like to sit with someone who is dying. Naturally, we feel anxious and somewhat fearful about such an unknown and mysterious event, but as many hospice workers and death doulas will explain, it's not as difficult or frightening as it seems. To begin with, there is little for us to do as we sit with a dying person except to ensure that they are as comfortable as possible with adequate medication for pain, clean bedclothes, and moistened lips and mouth, which the hospice staff will help manage. But what matters most is that we understand how to be with our loved one during that sacred time of transition. Here are some suggestions: Be present Try to be physically present at your loved one's bedside if possible. Sitting vigil in the same room can be very powerful. However, if you cannot be there for any reason, you can still sit in vigil wherever you are located. Turn off all distractions, like the television, radio, and cell phone. Focus your attention on your loved one, which you can do at a distance by looking at a photograph if necessary. When your mind wanders, bring your thoughts back to the present moment and remember that you are participating in a sacred ritual. Be calm The energy you bring with you to the bedside will have an impact on your loved one and others in the room. This can also be true if you are watching from a distance. Use deep breathing to slow down your heart rate, bring your thoughts into the present moment, and get into a state of calmness. Be yourself You don't have to do or say anything special during this time; just be your true self. As they near the end of life, I've found that patients appreciate authenticity and see through our pretenses and attempts to do the 'right' thing rather than the true thing. Know that you are good enough just as you are and that your presence alone will make a difference. Be quiet The hours before death seem to be a sacred time for many patients as they do the work of leaving this life behind. Have reverence for this space and speak softly, if at all. Use brief phrases to communicate whatever you feel a need to say, such as 'I love you,' 'thank you for all you've given me,' or 'you've done well with this life.' Be gentle" Some empaths who work with the dying recommend that you limit physical touching because it may be too distracting for the patient. But you may want to try gently holding a hand, touching the face or hair, or placing your hand over the heart of your loved one. Watch for their response to see if your touch seems welcome or disturbing. Remember that it's perfectly fine to sit quietly without any physical contact at all, and for some, it may be preferable. If you are sitting vigil at a distance, you can place your hand over your own heart. Be loving Hopefully, you have had an opportunity earlier to work through any old resentments and anger you might harbor toward your loved one. This sacred space of dying is not the best place to review those sentiments, though you may want to softly speak 'I forgive you' if you can say it with authenticity. Focus on sending love through your heart to the dying person and imagine that they are surrounded and filled with the soft light of love, which you can do from a distance as well. Be accepting There is a mystery about the dying process that none of us can understand. We cannot predict the exact timing, how long it will take, or what our loved one might say or experience. Be open to whatever happens and however long this process might last. Let it unfold naturally and try to feel gratitude that you are able to be a witness during this sacred time. If you have an opportunity to be with a loved one during their last hours, I hope you will accept it because that experience might change your life. Your own questions and fears about the dying process might be answered and you may discover that life is richer and more meaningful when you acknowledge that it doesn't last forever. Mon, 27 Sep 2021 11:48:49 GMT http://thedenverhospice.org/blog/14896/How-to-Be-With-a-Loved-One-in-Their-Last-Hours-of-Life http://thedenverhospice.org/blog/14895/What-a-Day-at-Water-World--A-patient-s-special-request-provides-rare-outing-for-the-whole-family blog Amber Vaughn has spent several summer days with her three kids the way many parents do ' cooling off at Water World. But until recently her husband, Mike, a Denver Hospice patient, was only able to share in their family outings through Snapchat or hearing stories after the fact. Through a special request to The Denver Hospice and Apex Paramedics, Mike recently got to join them at the water park to make more special memories as a family. Mike has tumors in his pelvis that make it difficult to travel, and he's been on bed rest to stay comfortable. His Water World trip was only his third trip out of the house since February. The Vaughns' three kids enjoyed their favorite rides and slides at the park -- and the oldest got to show off her daring spirit on The Peaks, Water World's six-story-tall water slide. The highlight for Amber, though, was being able to share the experience with Mike. She said the brightest parts of the day for her involved simply being with her husband outside, talking with him out of their house and showing him what their children had been doing all summer." 'It was something nice that the kids could look forward to and he could look forward to and they could have a special memory with him,' she said. Apex paramedics helped Mike stay comfortable and picked him up in an ambulance decorated with a beach theme for his special day. The Apex team got the Vaughn family drinks, snacks and pool floats and made sure Mike had a clear path to the best spots. Apex paramedics said opportunities to help fulfill a terminally ill person's wish are good for the patient as well as for the employees who spend much of their time responding to emergencies." Amber said she was grateful to have a relaxing few hours out of the house with Mike. 'For me, it was nice seeing him outside and sharing that experience. It's different seeing videos of the kids and being there in person.' Thu, 26 Aug 2021 06:00:57 GMT http://thedenverhospice.org/blog/14895/What-a-Day-at-Water-World--A-patient-s-special-request-provides-rare-outing-for-the-whole-family http://thedenverhospice.org/blog/14894/Denver-Hospice-Quilter-Sews-Together-Hospice-Stories blog Diana Bailey has worked for The Denver Hospice for more than 20 years. She started working at the Inpatient Care Center straight out of nursing school, citing a desire to get hands-on experience interacting with patients and learning directly from other nurses. After building a connection with The Denver Hospice community, she wanted to do something that would provide a creative outlet for patients, families and caregivers while honoring those who had passed. She started a quilt square project, handing out blank 10-inch squares to families in their admissions package. She encouraged families to create something to honor their loved one. After gathering enough, she stitched the squares together to hang them in the hallways. Her current quilt, however, is different. The creative spark came from practicing self-care. Playing with patterns, colors and designs has always been relaxing for Diana, and she realized that she had an opportunity to use her relaxation time to also provide some joy to The Denver Hospice community. 'My therapy when I'm not at work is playing with color,' she explained, and her quilt incorporates many different fabrics and shades. She used the 'Guardian Pattern,' which represents the staff members at the Denver Hospice who make it their life's work to support and care for their patients. To further honor their dedication, she hand-embroidered the names of friends and family of staff members who have passed away. The more than 60 names reflect the deeply personal connection that many caregivers have with hospice care. 'We all have a personal reason for being here and doing this kind of work, and the stories behind the names explain why all of those individuals are here,' she explained. Now, the quilt hangs outside of the entrance to the Inpatient Care Center, comforting and inspiring patients and staff at The Denver Hospice. Thu, 26 Aug 2021 12:38:30 GMT http://thedenverhospice.org/blog/14894/Denver-Hospice-Quilter-Sews-Together-Hospice-Stories http://thedenverhospice.org/blog/14893/Hospice-Care-Maintains-Dignity-for-Patients-at-the-End-of-Life blog When patients and their families talk about what matters to them as they near the end of life, 'dignity' is often mentioned as being of great importance. The word dignity is derived from a Latin term meaning 'worth' or 'value,' which suggests that patients with life-limiting illness want to feel that their lives matter and they are worthy of love and respect throughout all their days. In his groundbreaking research on dignity, Dr. Harvey Max Chochinov found that pain management, care for dependency needs, hopefulness, support network and meaning were all factors that greatly influenced the sense of dignity for patients and their families at the end of life. Hospice is a uniquely designed model of medical care that meets all of these needs and focuses on patient dignity as a priority. By utilizing a team approach that includes the needs of the whole patient and family, hospice workers honor the worth and value of their patients in the following ways: Pain management" The nurses and doctors who work in hospice receive specialized training in treating various types of pain using medications and other modalities such as massage, music therapy and relaxation techniques. They are also highly skilled in recognizing and managing other symptoms that contribute to discomfort for patients. Family members receive the training and information they need to improve their loved one's comfort as well. Care for dependency needs Home health aides are an essential part of the hospice team who are skilled at providing gentle hands-on care to their patients. They assist with intimate care needs such as bathing, dressing and grooming so patients will feel greater well being and physical comfort. The care offered by aides allows family members to spend more quality time with their loved one and frees patients from worrying that their care is a burden to their families. Renewed hopefulness When hope is difficult to find for a person with a life-limiting illness, hospice team members, including the social worker and chaplain, have vast experience in helping patients redefine the meaning of 'hope.' While a cure for illness may not be possible, there is hopefulness in spending time with loved ones, finding laughter and joy in the little moments of life, and connecting more deeply with one's own values. Hope also comes from receiving the best possible care and comfort management during the last days of life." Support network The entire hospice team becomes a valuable external support system for patient and family, offering expertise, hands-on care, education, volunteer visits and round-the-clock availability. With the assistance offered by the hospice team, family and friends are better able to create their own network of support as they nurture and tend to their loved one throughout the last days. Patients can be more relaxed and less anxious when the support network is reliable and they know that no one person is overly burdened with caregiving. Meaning The entire hospice team understands the importance of helping patients find meaning in their lives, but the chaplain and social worker focus especially on this need. They are skilled at listening to patients' stories and recognizing the beauty and worth of every single life. Patients feel valued and heard and are able to tie up the 'loose ends' of life when they receive this level of support. Within all of the medical care currently available, hospice and palliative care are unique because they offer a team approach that meets the needs of the whole patient and family. The dignity of patients as they experience the last days of life is a priority for the hospice staff. If you or a loved one are facing a life-limiting illness, consider seeking care and support from your local hospice and palliative care team so you can find value and deeper meaning, even during a difficult time. Thu, 15 Jul 2021 11:25:10 GMT http://thedenverhospice.org/blog/14893/Hospice-Care-Maintains-Dignity-for-Patients-at-the-End-of-Life http://thedenverhospice.org/blog/14892/Denver-Hospice-Announces-Improvements-to-Inpatient-Care-Center blog New beds, medication delivery system further commitment to 'very best' level of care" Continuing its commitment to the highest standards of quality and care, The Denver Hospice announced recent advances at The Denver Hospice Inpatient Care Center at Lowry. The improvements, new patient beds, and an upgraded medication delivery system provide a standard of patient care and safety rarely found in an inpatient hospice setting, said Melinda Egging, president of not-for-profit The Denver Hospice. 'The improvements are part of our commitment to securing the very best for our patients, to make their time with us the best it can be.' The new beds include features that improve patient comfort, including safety lights that can be seen by a clinician from the doorway to reduce patient interruptions, a built-in scale so that patients can be weighed without being moved for accurate medication dosing, and additional mechanical features to help patients sit up or move to a different position with ease." 'The beds provide an extra layer of safety for our patients and also help our staff avoid injuries and be more efficient,' said Stacey Stafford, clinical manager at the center. The Denver Hospice's new medication delivery system, Human Scale carts, is typically found only in hospitals. The Human Scale cart is an all-in-one workstation for clinicians. The carts can be equipped with all patient medications for the duration of a clinician's shift, and it will track what medications are dispensed, and to which patients, helping ensure patients are getting the right medications at the right time. In addition, clinicians use the Human Scale carts to electronically enter patient care documentation and notes in real time, conduct internet research, and complete time cards." 'We can bring the carts into patient rooms, and we can collect patient and family information and enter it into the system right away, which gives us more time to spend with patients at the bedside,' Stafford explained. The Inpatient Care Center serves those who need aggressive pain and symptom management in a home-like setting. Visitors are welcome 24-7, and amenities include a family dining room, day rooms, a multi-faith chapel, library and hydro-therapy spa. Each room has its own outdoor patio and gardens; walkways and high-tech innovations add to the light-filled ambiance of the center. Watch this video to tour the Inpatient Care Center. Tue, 22 Jun 2021 08:49:06 GMT http://thedenverhospice.org/blog/14892/Denver-Hospice-Announces-Improvements-to-Inpatient-Care-Center http://thedenverhospice.org/blog/14891/Memorial-Day-2021--Rituals-for-Honoring-Our-Losses blog People around the globe have experienced unprecedented loss during the past year due to the COVID-19 pandemic. Not only have there been millions of deaths worldwide but many also have lost employment, housing, social connectedness and their everyday way of life. We are going through a grief emergency at this time due to the many losses that continue to accumulate." Here in the United States researchers estimate that nearly 5 million people have suffered the death of a close family member during this pandemic. And on top of that, our usual and expected rituals for honoring our loved ones'funerals and memorial services'have been impossible to carry out in person. But these mourning traditions are essential to us for processing grief and we need to find creative ways to carry them out even when we can't gather together in person. Perhaps Memorial Day this year can be a time when we not only honor the men and women who died in service of this country, but we also set aside time to reflect on the past year-and-a-half of unspeakable loss. Here are some helpful steps for planning a grief ritual that can be observed on Memorial Day or any other day to address all of your losses: Plan a special time In order to get the most benefit from a grief ritual, it's important to set aside a dedicated block of time in your busy schedule. You might plan a time on Memorial Day for one longer event that includes other people or simply dedicate 15 minutes each day of the weekend for your own private series of rituals at home. No matter what you choose, be sure to mark the times on your calendar to set your intention to honor your grief. Decide who to invite Unless you prefer to do a private ritual for yourself alone, you may want to share this ceremony with others who would benefit from participating. An online platform like Zoom will allow people to attend who live far away but you will either need to know how to use Zoom or find someone else to help you. Notify participants of the date and time and make sure they know how to join you online.'� Create a 'Grief Space' Making space for grief includes creating a physical space in your home to represent your experience of loss. A small table, desk, shelf or even a windowsill can become an 'altar' where you can place special mementos. Some of the items you may want to include are photographs, candles, flowers, rocks, shells, possessions that remind you of your loved one, and other memorabilia like postcards, letters, ticket stubs, or flyers. You can use this space for your ritual and also spend time there each day reflecting on your grief. Find a poem or verse to read You may already have a special poem or reading that your loved one cherished that you can include in your ritual. But if you don't you can search through some books of poetry to find words that resonate with you. There are poems available online that deal with love and grief by Mary Oliver, David Whyte and John O'Donohue. You might also check out these two books: The Language of Loss - Poetry and Prose for Grieving and Celebrating the Love of Your Life edited by Barbara Abercrombie; and Healing the Divide ' Poems of Kindness & Connection edited by James Crews. If you are including other people in your event you might ask them to bring something special to read or a story to share. Include music Choose songs to play during your ritual that are meaningful and comforting to you or that bring back memories of your loved one. Again if others are joining you they might want to suggest some songs or create a shared playlist with you of special music. Make an outline for the event You may want to write down the order of activities for your ritual to help it flow naturally and let others know what to expect. As an example: begin with lighting a candle, then saying a prayer or blessing. Follow that with music, then a poem or reading before having a time for sharing stories. End your ritual with another song, a final reading and a farewell blessing or prayer. Try to keep the entire event under one hour if you are doing it for a group online. Create your own 'parade' While many communities in the past have marked the day with huge parades to honor military personnel and veterans, those events may not be possible this year. As an alternative activity, you and your loved ones who live locally could stage your own small 'parade' and drive in a caravan to a local cemetery or another place of special remembrance like a park or natural area. You could decorate your cars with flowers or photos and share special food together when you arrive at the destination." The goal of creating a Memorial Day event is to mark the day as a time for remembering and honoring your grief. But consider also including a time for gratitude. Even in the midst of tragedy, there are many reasons to be grateful'for the opportunity to love those who have died, for the life that continues, for the beauty of the natural world, for all of the people who have helped you survive this year of loss. May you find the solace and healing you need to get through the challenges that face us. Mon, 17 May 2021 10:42:56 GMT http://thedenverhospice.org/blog/14891/Memorial-Day-2021--Rituals-for-Honoring-Our-Losses http://thedenverhospice.org/blog/14890/Colorado-Lawmakers-Consider-New-License-Plate-to-Honor-Hospice-and-Palliative-Care blog The early design for a special Colorado license plate to support end-of-life care Denver, Colo. ' Colorado drivers may soon have another license plate option. A bill before state legislators creates a new hospice and palliative care license plate that would raise awareness of this important health care for people facing serious illness. House Bill 21-1128, sponsored by Representative Dafna Michaelson Jenet, D-Commerce City, and Senator Chris Hansen, D-Denver, will allow Colorado drivers to choose the new plate if they qualify for it. To qualify, Coloradans will need to make an annual donation to a designated non-profit organization promoting hospice and palliative care in the state." 'Hospice and palliative care workers are heroes, bringing comfort, support and presence to individuals and families facing an often difficult journey,' said Care Synergy President and CEO Tim Bowen.'� Bowen testified in support of the bill at its first hearing in the House Transportation and Local Government Committee on March 24." 'There are too many Coloradans who get hospice care much too late,' said Bowen. 'The purpose of this opportunity is to help fund education and awareness throughout the state to provide better access and more timely access to care.' The proceeds from the special license plates will fund awareness and education initiatives including professional development for health care workers who support hospice and palliative care patients, as well as public campaigns aimed at connecting more families and their loved ones with end-of-life care." After passing the House Transportation and Local Government Committee, the bill moves on to the Appropriations Committee. If passed into law, the new license plates could be available to the public next year. Care Synergy is thankful to the bill's sponsors for their efforts to help more Coloradans receive expert, compassionate care during a life-limiting illness. We encourage our fellow Coloradans to support the effort and to contact their elected representatives to urge passage of the bill. Fri, 26 Mar 2021 09:54:46 GMT http://thedenverhospice.org/blog/14890/Colorado-Lawmakers-Consider-New-License-Plate-to-Honor-Hospice-and-Palliative-Care http://thedenverhospice.org/blog/14889/How-to-Have-a-Meaningful-End-of-Life-Conversation-When-You-Can-t-Be-Together blog As we continue to navigate the challenges of the COVID-19 pandemic, it has become increasingly necessary for families to have deep and difficult conversations about the end of life and individual preferences for care. Yet the isolation and social distancing that are required to prevent the spread of the virus make those conversations even more challenging to carry out. We need to come together more than ever before, and we need to be open and honest about our wishes and goals for the last days of our lives. In the past, we could gather as a family around the kitchen table and explore this topic together, even though it might be uncomfortable at times. But how can we share meaningful conversation and find common ground when we are geographically miles apart?" As more and more medical and mental health providers have resorted to using virtual technology to meet with patients, they are reporting that they can still have profound and meaningful discussions without being in the same room. We can learn from their success, so here are some suggestions for coming together virtually to conduct an end-of-life discussion: Choose the best platform" Having a visual connection with one another is essential for this type of deep communication, so consider using a video platform like Skype, Zoom, or even the video chat option on your phone. You can hold a conference call if necessary, but if you can't see each other's faces you will be missing some important non-verbal communication. Of course, sending emails is the least desirable method of connecting because of the loss of emotional tone and the ease of misinterpreting each other's written words. Both Skype and Zoom are free and easy to use and allow you to have multiple participants. Decide who to invite'� Make a list of key family members and loved ones who should be part of the discussion. You may want to have a preliminary conversation with the person who is stating their wishes to let them know what you want to talk about and give them time to think about their answers. It is helpful when all family members hear the same information at the same time in order to avoid confusion. You can also record the conversation so that anyone who can't attend can listen later." Plan ahead for the conversation Be prepared that some people on the call may have differing opinions, so decide how to divide up the time between listening and speaking. You might give each person five minutes to express their feelings after you've spent the majority of the time listening to your loved one whose wishes you are hoping to honor. Set a realistic goal for the discussion, and be prepared to meet again in the future to cover all of the necessary topics, if needed. For example, your initial goal might be to have your loved one complete an advance directive, so you'll need to discuss the questions that the form requires. Structure the discussion Start by introducing the topic with a question, a story, or even by showing a brief video. For example, the trailer for the Netflix documentary 'Extremis' is a compelling conversation starter because it portrays in just a few minutes what happens when people haven't talked about their end-of-life wishes. You could even ask everyone to watch a film or read an article before you gather for the call, or you could play a discussion game together like Hello or The Death Deck. It can be helpful to have a theme for the conversation like 'Planning Your Bucket List' that gives you something to return to if people start to wander off topic." Practice good etiquette for virtual calls Ask each person involved to leave their camera on but to mute their microphone when not speaking. This will help eliminate background noise. Explain the agenda and goals for the call, and let them know when they will be invited to express their opinions. Have a plan for calling on each person when it is their turn to speak, and ask them to refrain from interrupting or talking over one another. Utilize heart-centered listening The most important outcome of this conversation is that your loved one feels heard and trusts that their wishes are important to you. Ask each person on the call to refrain from multi-tasking and stay focused on the discussion. Encourage everyone to make eye contact with the person who is speaking and also to place one hand over their heart while they are listening. This action helps engage the 'compassion system' of the heart and brain, and can lead to greater empathy and less anxiety during the discussion. Adjust your mindset Remember that you can continue this conversation in the future, so don't be attached to resolving every issue in one virtual meeting. Focus on gathering information rather than on pushing toward a certain outcome. Try not to take anything personally that is said, have compassion for the other people involved, and stay calm and centered as the discussion leader. End on a positive note Express gratitude to everyone for participating in this challenging discussion. Make plans for following up and gathering more information if necessary. Let your loved one know how important this conversation has been for all of you, and make sure they recognize that it has been an act of love. Conversations about end-of-life issues are among the most important discussions we can have with our loved ones, and they are even more essential as we deal with the COVID-19 crisis. With patience and proper planning, we can overcome the current obstacles to these necessary talks and find a way to genuine heart-centered communication that will enable a better end-of-life experience for everyone involved. Wed, 17 Mar 2021 02:41:40 GMT http://thedenverhospice.org/blog/14889/How-to-Have-a-Meaningful-End-of-Life-Conversation-When-You-Can-t-Be-Together http://thedenverhospice.org/blog/14887/New-Negative-Pressure-Rooms-Let-Hospice-Patients-with-COVID-19-Receive-Hospice-Inpatient-Care-and-Visitors blog The Denver Hospice is putting the finishing touches on five brand new negative-pressure rooms that will allow compassionate care to patients with COVID-19 in a more comforting home-like setting. These negative-pressure rooms ' the first and only ones available for hospice in-patient care in the Front Range ' also allow patients to receive compassionate care visits from family at end of life." The negative-pressure rooms are in a newly renovated wing of our Inpatient Care Center at Lowry. Along with the use of proper personal protective equipment, this environment significantly reduces the risk of transmission of respiratory infections. Patients admitted to the wing can have compassionate care visitation, with guests receiving infection control training." The Denver Hospice worked to ensure the new negative-pressure rooms were designed to maintain the home-like feel found throughout the rest of our Inpatient Care Center. Surrounded by wood paneling and warm lighting, patients and their loved ones can enjoy views of the facility's gardens from the windows." 'It was important to us to be able to provide critical health care to our patients with COVID-19 here at the Inpatient Care Center rather than in an intensive care unit in a hospital. The rooms will remain a benefit to our community even after this pandemic has passed,' said The Denver Hospice President Melinda Egging. 'Staff have been asking how to do more for our community and people affected by COVID-19." We've begun training our staff on the safety protocols for the negative-pressure rooms, and we'll be ready to continue to provide care to our community." One thing we have learned through this pandemic is the importance of family and being together.' said Inpatient Care Center Clinical Manager Stacey Stafford." Wed, 24 Feb 2021 05:28:02 GMT http://thedenverhospice.org/blog/14887/New-Negative-Pressure-Rooms-Let-Hospice-Patients-with-COVID-19-Receive-Hospice-Inpatient-Care-and-Visitors http://thedenverhospice.org/blog/14888/In-the-News--Valentine-s-Gift-Drive-by-Local-8th-Grader-Featured-on-9News blog A Colorado 8th grader recently had an idea to share love and encouragement this Valentine's Day with children facing serious illness and their families." Kimaya Kini was aware of the mission of The Denver Hospice because her school, Campus Middle School in Greenwood Village, does an annual fundraiser for The Denver Hospice. This summer she started her own organization, called Thoughts4Tots, to provide educational resources and other support for children facing challenging situations. She and a friend built a website, Instagram account and LinkedIn account. Through her new organization, she recently started a drive to collect Valentine's Day gifts for the children in our care. Kimaya asked volunteers to make drawings, cards, notes, friendship bracelets or other gifts. She got a tremendous response from people across the country ' and even in other countries ' and surpassed her goal for gifts received. She collected enough gifts that they will now be shared this Valentine's week with not only pediatric patients, but many others in our care. See the story from 9News: Mon, 15 Feb 2021 06:12:00 GMT http://thedenverhospice.org/blog/14888/In-the-News--Valentine-s-Gift-Drive-by-Local-8th-Grader-Featured-on-9News http://thedenverhospice.org/blog/14886/Hope-to-End-the-Pandemic-Is-Here--We-Thank-Our-Partners-for-Helping-Speed-COVID-19-Vaccine-Coverage-Among-our-Staff blog Like all health care organizations, The Denver Hospice is excited and relieved that our staff who interact with patients are finally able to receive the COVID-19 vaccine. Recently, one of our employees, Roman Pivacek, shared his experience getting the vaccine. 'I got the vaccine to do my part to protect, number one, my family and, number two, the community in which I work in. I feel it was a very safe and painless process, and I currently feel great. And I'm hoping for better days for all of us moving forward, especially the residents in the facilities in which I work,' said Roman. As a Community Liaison, Roman works with staff and families in a number of long-term care facilities where many of our patients live. These facilities are among the first to receive the COVID-19 vaccines, and we are grateful that these cherished partners are offering The Denver Hospice employees who work in their buildings the vaccines along with their own staff. Roman received his COVID-19 vaccine at the Garden Terrace Alzheimer's Center of Excellence, a nursing home in Aurora. He said his arm was a bit sore from the shot for a couple of days, but he experienced no other symptoms. Once again, we'd like to thank our partners who have offered vaccines to The Denver Hospice staff. We join with you in prioritizing the health and safety of patients and working toward an end to this pandemic. Thanks to: UCHealth Integrated Network Clear Creek Care Center Arbor View Senior Living Veterans Community Living Center at Fitzsimons Summit Rehabilitation and Care Community Life Care Center of Westminster Garden Terrace Alzheimer's Center of Excellence Boulder Community Hospital Fri, 29 Jan 2021 07:57:35 GMT http://thedenverhospice.org/blog/14886/Hope-to-End-the-Pandemic-Is-Here--We-Thank-Our-Partners-for-Helping-Speed-COVID-19-Vaccine-Coverage-Among-our-Staff http://thedenverhospice.org/blog/14885/How-to-Help-a-Friend-Through-Grief blog Recently a friend and colleague lost her husband in a sudden, tragic accident, leaving the entire community stunned with this reminder that life is fragile and fleeting. In the days after the accident, I received numerous phone calls and emails from people asking for my advice, wanting to offer their help but having no idea what to do or say. Many of us have little experience with loss and grief until we reach our elder years, when it becomes more common to lose our friends and loved ones. So when unexpected loss does occur we feel unprepared and inadequate to be of help, even though we desperately want to do something to show how much we care. Grief is a universal experience that we ultimately share with every other person on earth. By participating in the grief of another we break down barriers and establish connections that make our families and communities stronger. When we grieve together we honor the precious and impermanent nature of life on this planet and find an even greater appreciation for our own existence. Still it is difficult to face our own discomfort with death and offer support to someone who has suffered a loss if we don't know what to do or say in that situation. Here are some suggestions for helping a grieving friend, even though you may not be able to visit in person during this time of COVID-19 precautions: Show up. Offer your friend your presence by going to the home and making yourself available for support. This may sound obvious but many of my grieving patients have told me they were abandoned during this time of need by some of their friends who were too uncomfortable to call, come for a visit or talk to them at work." TIP: If it feels awkward to just show up at your friend's home when you don't know what to say or do, bring along a small gift of food'perhaps a basket of fruit or plate of cookies. Then you have something to offer that will get you inside the door so you can assess the situation. If there are already many relatives around and your friend seems busy with everyone else who is in the room you can simply say, 'I just wanted to drop this off and let you know I'm thinking about you,' and leave fairly quickly. But if your friend is all alone and seems relieved to see you, plan to stay for a while because your presence may be needed. Listen. You don't have to worry too much about what to say, because your grieving friend will primarily need you to listen. Some people who are grieving need to tell their story over and over again, while others may be unable to talk about what has happened. In either case, just sit with your friend and show that you are willing to listen." You can say something like, 'I'm so sorry for your loss,' but be sensitive to the situation and pay attention to your friend's emotions. One of my patients told me that when her mother finally died after a long difficult struggle with dementia she felt relieved and joyful that her suffering had finally ended. When friends told her how sorry they were she felt guilty and embarrassed to tell them about her real feelings." TIP: You will usually be safe asking questions like, 'How are you doing?' and, 'Is there anything I can do to help?' But, again, your willingness to listen is the most important gift you can offer. Bring food. I already mentioned bringing along a small offering of food on your first visit, but food is so important that it deserves a separate listing. People who are grieving find it nearly impossible to plan a meal, go grocery shopping or cook. Often they have little appetite so they are not motivated to seek out healthy food. But nourishment is very important during this difficult process so you can make a big difference for your friend by bringing in healthy meals that can be consumed in small quantities and stored for several days.'� Dishes like casseroles and soups or stews are always appreciated and can be reheated multiple times. Also consider healthy snacks like fruit, veggie trays, trail mix, nuts, or yogurt. If there are children in the family bring along some child-friendly snacks like string cheese. TIP: Be sure to coordinate with others who are bringing in food so that you don't bring duplicate meals. The website www.mealtrain.com is a helpful tool for organizing food donations. And be sure to use disposable containers that can be put in the freezer and won't need to be returned to you. Volunteer your time. Offer to help with tasks such as housecleaning, shopping, laundry, childcare, pet care, transportation or housing for visitors. Your friend may not think to ask you for help even when it is needed, so when you offer, be sure to suggest a few things you are willing to do, especially if you notice there is a need. TIP: Coordinate multiple volunteers using the www.lotsahelpinghands.com website where you can create a calendar of tasks and everyone can sign up online. Send a letter. If you cannot be physically present to help your friend, consider sending a special handwritten letter. You might tell a story about a special memory of the deceased loved one and how that person changed your life. This will become a keepsake your friend can cherish and re-read over time. Stay connected. Remember that the full grief process can take 1 or 2 years or even more so don't expect your friend to return to 'normal.' Be mindful of holidays, special anniversaries and birthdays, which can be particularly painful for the grieving. Offer some extra TLC on those days and consider calling or sending a card or note. TIP: Surprise your friend with a gift certificate for a restaurant, spa, salon, concert, or movie theatre that can be used as an 'emergency' pick-me-up on a difficult day. Finally, don't hesitate to reach out to your friends and loved ones when they need you. By taking part in the grief process of others, you provide yourself with an opportunity to 'practice' for your own times of grief that will surely come to you in this life. You will find it becomes easier to help others who are suffering and to tolerate your own suffering when you have formed bonds of compassion and support with those around you by offering your help. It is a unique opportunity to open your heart and share the grief of another. You will be a better person for summoning your courage and walking into a painful situation with open arms and the question 'How can I help?' Sat, 23 Jan 2021 04:05:39 GMT http://thedenverhospice.org/blog/14885/How-to-Help-a-Friend-Through-Grief http://thedenverhospice.org/blog/14884/In-the-News--Long-time-Denver-Hospice-Volunteer-Highlighted-by-FOX31-Anchor blog The Denver Hospice is innovating during the pandemic to continue to provide comprehensive, quality, comforting care." As a volunteer with The Denver Hospice for more than 36 years, Margaret Tews knows the importance of this support, and how vital it is for families to have conversations about their end-of-life wishes." 'Most people don't want to acknowledge it,' Tews said. 'You have to be drawn into it.'" During National Hospice and Palliative Care Month in November, Tews told anchor Jeremy Hubbard with FOX31 that the pandemic has brought attention to end-of-life care in a way that will benefit families as more people take advantage of services. The Denver Hospice Inpatient Care Center is currently renovating six rooms to be able to care for patients who test positive for COVID-19. Those rooms are on track to be complete in early 2021. See the full story from FOX31 News: https://vimeo.com/486228263 Thu, 03 Dec 2020 05:36:04 GMT http://thedenverhospice.org/blog/14884/In-the-News--Long-time-Denver-Hospice-Volunteer-Highlighted-by-FOX31-Anchor http://thedenverhospice.org/blog/14883/Bowling-with-Tommy--A-Patient-s-Surprising--but-Perfect--Last-Wish blog A special request from one of our recent hospice patients caught friends and family by surprise, but ultimately proved to be the perfect choice for one last memorable outing with loved ones. Tommy O'Neill, 35, wanted to go bowling. His wife, Amanda Rusch, recalled jovially, 'Tommy and I had never gone bowling before. He never went bowling. I was totally confused!'" Tommy loved to watch sports and played softball in a league with friends, but the particular choice of bowling as a final experience was a curveball. However, as the proud and dedicated father of two young children, ages two and four, Tommy's reasoning for the experience became clear. 'He said he wanted to go bowling with our kids for their first time,' Amanda explained. " Tommy O'Neill and his family enjoy bowling at their last outing together. Tommy was diagnosed with spindle cell sarcoma, an aggressive form of cancer, in March 2020. His doctors believed he had only months to live. His diagnosis came around the same time new restrictions were being put into place because of the COVID-19 pandemic. Because of the threat of a new viral illness, Amanda said Tommy wasn't able to leave his house for several months. Soon after Tommy began receiving care from The Denver Hospice in August, our team was honored to work with his family and friends to make his final wish possible. More than two dozen of his loved ones came together for a bowling bash at Holiday Lanes in Golden. The Denver Hospice CNA, Nicole Palfy, smiles with Tommy at his bowling night out. 'It was amazing because that was the only time, due to Covid, and the last time he got out of the house. His friends were there, and people from the hospice showed up. It was like a normal night for him, and the hospice made that possible,' Amanda said. Tommy and Amanda's two young children were determined to make their father proud that night. 'My son is just two, and would go pick up an 8-pound ball, try to run it to the lane, throw it down the lane, and run back for another ball. He did that for two whole hours!' said Amanda. 'The kids loved it, and Tom loved being there with them and helping them. It was amazing. He smiled the whole night.' Despite the pain Tommy was experiencing at a late stage of illness, Amanda says he insisted on staying longer than planned at the bowling alley that night. It would become his final opportunity to gather with friends and family prior to his death the following week. Amanda says she will forever cherish the memories made and the beginning of a new tradition for her family. 'Clearly we need to go bowling more!' she exclaimed. Amanda offers generous praise for The Denver Hospice care team who supported Tommy and her family through his final weeks at home. 'They are the most amazing people I have ever met. No matter what we needed, what we asked for, it was done with a smile. It takes a very special person to come in at the darkest time of your life ' being there, supporting me and supporting our kids,' said Amanda. 'Because of these people, they made my husband's last month of his life the most enjoyable that he had since his diagnosis.' She is especially grateful for Tommy's nurse, Rachel, and certified nursing assistant, Nicole." 'These two amazing people made us feel like family. They never made us feel like we were just patients. I'll forever be indebted to those two. They were like our angels during that month.'" The Denver Hospice nurse Rachel Phillips poses for a picture with Tommy and his wife, Amanda, at their home in Golden. Throughout his illness, Tommy maintained an inspiring attitude, and even shared his story in a radio interview. He told fellow fans of The Rick Lewis Show on 103.5 The Fox, 'I may not be able to walk my daughter down the aisle, or throw a football with my son in person, but I will in spirit ' that's what's keeping me through. I'm going to be there.' His interview can be heard here. Wed, 02 Dec 2020 10:44:42 GMT http://thedenverhospice.org/blog/14883/Bowling-with-Tommy--A-Patient-s-Surprising--but-Perfect--Last-Wish http://thedenverhospice.org/blog/14882/Pandemic-accelerates-adoption-of-telehealth-strategies-for-hospice-care blog Denver, Colo. '"The pandemic has presented unprecedented challenges for hospice and palliative care patients and their families. If there is any good at all to come out of the COVID-19 pandemic for hospices, our patients and their families, it is the push to make promising ideas on the horizon arrive even faster to support comforting care in new ways. Health care experts have said this life-changing pandemic has accelerated the use and acceptance of telehealth by three years ' all in just a matter of months. We firmly believe hospices and palliative care providers can benefit from telehealth in many of the same ways as hospitals and physician offices. You may have heard about some of the now-common uses of telehealth: A teenager or a working parent at home with minor symptoms talks to their doctor over the video camera on their computer. Or an elderly patient uses a home blood pressure monitor tracked remotely by their provider to avoid another trip to the hospital. With so much of our world off limits because of the pandemic, the Affiliates within the Care Synergy family are employing these versatile and adaptable qualities of telehealth to help families stay in touch and patients stay as comfortable and connected as possible during these most trying times. Care Synergy's affiliates ' the Colorado Visiting Nurse Association, The Denver Hospice, Pathways, and Pikes Peak Hospice & Palliative Care ' have many patients who want to stay at home and strictly limit contact with the outside world right now. We of course respect their wishes and are working extra hard to accommodate them, while providing continuity of care. Meanwhile, we are taking extra steps to limit exposure for our caregivers, who are often in contact with multiple patients over the course of their week. We partner with Healthcare Recovery Solutions to offer remote patient monitoring to homecare patients. Devices in their home monitor blood pressure, diabetes blood checks, and other vital signs or conditions ' and are connected to our caregivers and providers. We are also using a HIPAA-compliant app from Doxy.me to provide face-to-face remote contact with our caregivers using any smart phone or tablet preferred by the patient. The app allows our patients and caregivers to keep a close connection even more frequently than before the pandemic. The same technology is being used to provide care at skilled nursing facilities and assisted living centers, where many of our patients live. These facilities have had to, understandably, restrict outside contact, often even from family members. Yet life-limiting illness is hard enough without the added challenge of isolation. Virtual connections can help. Many of our patients in facilities have their own smartphone or tablet, and many others can borrow one from their facility. When we are allowed inside to see our patients, we can sit with them and help them set up the app. They can then be in touch with their families, friends or providers, communicating (virtually) face to face. The holidays are upon us, making these connections seem more vital than ever. When nursing homes and assisted living centers collaborate with us to embrace telehealth innovations, our patients and their families see the benefits immediately. Telehealth may have arrived in our part of the health care world a little sooner than expected. But we're convinced it's here to stay, and patients will benefit over the near and long term from these advances. Tricia Ford is vice president of operations for the not-for-profit Care Synergy.network, which includes the Colorado Visiting Nurse Association, The Denver Hospice, Pathways, and Pikes Peak Hospice & Palliative Care." Wed, 02 Dec 2020 10:31:18 GMT http://thedenverhospice.org/blog/14882/Pandemic-accelerates-adoption-of-telehealth-strategies-for-hospice-care http://thedenverhospice.org/blog/14881/Give-Back-Each-Time-You-Shop-with-AmazonSmile blog Did you know that you can donate to The Denver Hospice each time you make a purchase on Amazon? The Amazon Smile program makes it easy to donate a portion of each purchase to the nonprofit of your choice. Set up is easy and ensures your support for our programs on a regular basis - at no cost to you!'' How it works: When you shop, the AmazonSmile Foundation donates 0.5% of the purchase price of eligible products to a charity of your choice. The AmazonSmile website has the same products for the same prices that you'd find on Amazon.com. However, it's important to note: You can only make a donation when you start your shopping from smile.amazon.com, rather than the main website. Get started: To shop at AmazonSmile simply go to smile.amazon.com on your web browser. It might be helpful to add a bookmark to smile.amazon.com to make it even easier to return and start your shopping from this page. This ensures your designated charity gets a donation.'� Access on mobile: To use AmazonSmile on mobile, you must activate it in the Amazon Shopping app for iOS and Android phones. To access, download and then open the Amazon app and find 'Settings' in the main menu ('). Tap on 'AmazonSmile' and follow the on-screen instructions to turn on AmazonSmile on your phone. Start today in time for your holiday shopping! Visit this page where you will be prompted to change your charity to The Denver Hospice and ensure your donation each time you shop. Thu, 19 Nov 2020 09:30:48 GMT http://thedenverhospice.org/blog/14881/Give-Back-Each-Time-You-Shop-with-AmazonSmile http://thedenverhospice.org/blog/14880/Honoring-Our-Veterans-During-the-Pandemic blog Each November it is customary to honor the veterans in our society who have selflessly served in the military to protect our nation and our freedom. The Denver Hospice estimates that about 25% of the patients we serve are veterans. For this reason we participate in We Honor Veterans, a joint program of the National Hospice and Palliative Care Organization and the Department of Veterans Affairs, to focus on meeting the needs of veterans as they approach the end of life. But this year, because of the COVID-19 pandemic, there are obstacles to the customary rituals for recognizing and celebrating our veterans and their families. The need for social distancing and isolation of those most vulnerable to the virus interferes with the in-person ceremonies where veterans can be honored for their service. Here are some ideas for reaching out to veterans in your life to express your gratitude and support during this unusual time of separation: Connect by phone or video chat If you have a loved one, friend or neighbor who is a veteran, you can still connect with them virtually to send your love and gratitude. A veteran who is isolated at home or in a long-term care facility would appreciate a conversation where you offer your thanks and also show willingness to listen to any stories they would like to share. Write thank you letters and cards Cards and letters sent by mail become keepsakes that express your love and can be saved and cherished over time. It only takes a few minutes to write a personal note to a veteran, but it can have a big and lasting impact. Deliver care packages You can make special care packages for veterans whether they live at home, in a long-term care facility or even in a homeless shelter. Books or magazines, music, socks, slippers, a comfy blanket, small pillow, or personal care items are appropriate for most people. You can include non-perishable snacks if you know the dietary needs and restrictions for the person you are honoring. Make signs and posters Create a thank-you poster that can be hung on the wall or window of a veteran's room so that they can see it every day. Decorate it with images of the flag, and sign it with personal messages of thanks. You can also find pre-printed posters for veterans at many stores and online sites. Provide a device for virtual connections Consider equipping a veteran in your life with a smartphone or tablet to enable better virtual conversations. Offer instructions for using the device, and make sure they are easy to follow. A smart device like Alexa or Echo can be used to make phone calls by voice command, which could be very helpful for a disabled veteran. Recommend online resources The VA has created a smartphone app called COVID Coach that provides trauma-sensitive support for veterans who are coping with stress in managing daily life during the pandemic. If the veteran in your life can navigate technology well, this app and other online resources, like the organizations listed below, may be beneficial. Donate to an organization There are many non-profit organizations supporting veterans and their families that could benefit from an offering of time or money. Here are a few of those groups: Hope for the Warriors, TAPS (Tragedy Assistance Program for Survivors), Give an Hour, and Operation Gratitude, to name a few. Difficult times like the pandemic we are experiencing can inspire our creativity and resilience as we cope with all the changes to daily life. Our veterans have already dedicated their lives for the wellbeing and safety of all of us during other difficult times in history. This year find a special way to give something back and honor the veterans in your personal life and community for all that they have sacrificed. Wed, 11 Nov 2020 03:51:18 GMT http://thedenverhospice.org/blog/14880/Honoring-Our-Veterans-During-the-Pandemic http://thedenverhospice.org/blog/14879/All-Smiles-for-a-Special-Swim--Granting-A-Patient-s-Wish-in-Northern-Colorado blog At The Denver Hospice, we strive to help our patients experience as much joy as possible despite the challenges of illness they face. So it was extremely rewarding for the dedicated members of our North team to share in the recent fun and laughter with a patient who isn't ready to give up swimming. Barbara Lloyd, 81, is mother of five who has lived in Northern Colorado for almost 50 years. Her eldest son, Timothy Lloyd, explained that before she moved into the Life Care Center of Longmont to receive extra support for advancing illness, she used to swim frequently at a pool just a block away from her home." Although Barbara is no longer able to manage a swim on her own in deep water, it was still possible to enjoy a refreshing dip on a sunny day ' by bringing a small pool to her nursing home. The Denver Hospice provided the pool when Barbara told them about her desire to swim again. Members of our North team, who have been caring for Barbara since January and assisted in the swim experience, shared these pictures of her bright smile. Barbara's children are grateful to know that her hospice care team is not only helping her manage pain and other symptoms of serious illness, but also helping her find ways to make the most of every day. 'The hard thing is not knowing when or how her illness will progress,' said Peter about the cancer that has required increasingly advanced care for his mother. 'I'm glad to see she was having some fun.' Fri, 23 Oct 2020 06:03:10 GMT http://thedenverhospice.org/blog/14879/All-Smiles-for-a-Special-Swim--Granting-A-Patient-s-Wish-in-Northern-Colorado http://thedenverhospice.org/blog/14878/Opening-of-North-Office-Allows-The-Denver-Hospice-to-Better-Serve-All-Our-Patients blog The staff teams who serve our patients and families living in the northeast and northwest portions of our widening footprint around the metro Denver area are operating out of a new hub." The Denver Hospice celebrated the opening of our new office in Westminster on Tuesday, Sept. 29 with a socially distanced ribbon-cutting ceremony." The North Office is located along Highway 36, just off Sheridan Boulevard. It will mainly be used as office space for employees, with additional meeting space. When it is safe to come together again, we will host grief support services at this location closer to home for the loved ones and families of our patients." 2020 has been a year of remarkable expansion for The Denver Hospice: In August we also opened the new Amy Davis Hospice Support Center on our Lowry Campus. Through these additions we are positioning ourselves for the future '"ensuring we have the space and resources available to meet the growing need for high-quality, mission-driven hospice and palliative care in our community. The new offices not only enable us to expand our programs and services for families and community, but also allow us to better serve our patients through better use of their caregivers' time. 'Staff traveling into Denver to meet, gather necessary supplies and then turning around to go back into their service territory wasn't helping us deliver better patient care. The Westminster office has been a long time coming to help our teams be more efficient,' said Melinda Egging, President of The Denver Hospice." The Denver Hospice has been serving the Denver area and beyond for more than 40 years. Across nine counties ' Adams, Arapahoe, Boulder, Broomfield, Denver, Douglas, Elbert, Jefferson and Weld ' we care for over five thousand hospice and palliative patients each year. Thanks again to all those who have contributed to the effort to make the opening of our new North Office a reality. We are grateful for your help and for this new opportunity to be based closer to many of the patients in our care. Mon, 05 Oct 2020 02:59:24 GMT http://thedenverhospice.org/blog/14878/Opening-of-North-Office-Allows-The-Denver-Hospice-to-Better-Serve-All-Our-Patients http://thedenverhospice.org/blog/14877/Hospice-Care-During-COVID-19 blog If you have a loved one who needs hospice care you may wonder if it is possible to receive this care now when so many changes have taken place due to COVID-19. But hospice and palliative care have become even more essential during these difficult times so don't hesitate to ask for help if you and your family members need it. Hospice provides care for people who are nearing the end of life with an advanced illness. Most hospice services are provided in the patient's home but also in facilities such as nursing homes, hospitals, and inpatient hospices. During COVID-19 there may be a few changes in the way care is delivered to your loved one, but the focus is still on compassionate, whole-person care that maintains the comfort and dignity of the patient. Here's what you can expect when you enroll in hospice at home: Nursing visits Your hospice nurse will make regular visits to your home to assess your loved one's status and needs, adjust medications, communicate with your physician, and make recommendations for additional symptom management. The nurse will likely wear personal protective equipment such as a mask, gown and gloves to ensure the safety of everyone, but these will not interfere with the care provided or the quality of the visit. The hospice staff is trained and experienced in avoiding the spread of illness so you can be assured that there will be no risk involved in receiving this care. Home health aide visits If your loved one requires the assistance of a home health aide these visits will also be provided in a safe manner using personal protective equipment. Again these staff members are trained to practice infection precautions in their work so they will focus on maintaining safety as they offer care. Chaplain and social work services Conversations with the chaplaincy and social work members of the hospice team are just as important as the medical visits you will receive. But these visits can now be conducted over the telephone or by video chat on your computer. Patients and family members have reported that are very satisfied with these telehealth visits and that they are able to get their needs met through these calls. The hospice team members are creative in finding ways to deliver care from a distance including doing 'window visits' to patients in facilities and conducting Zoom calls with large groups of family members from around the country. Pain and symptom management The comfort and dignity of the patient are of utmost concern to the hospice staff and these will continue to be a priority. The hospice nurse will confer with your physician or the hospice medical provider to make sure your loved one is receiving the best possible treatments at home. Emergency consultation A member of the hospice team will be available by telephone 24/7 should unexpected concerns or issues arise. If the situation cannot be managed over the phone then an emergency visit to your home can take place when needed. You will be able to rest easy knowing that you always have someone available to consult with during these challenging times. Emotional support The hospice team is well-trained and very experienced in dealing with difficult emotional situations. They will provide support to family members as well as the patient while helping you navigate the task of caregiving at home. Through in-person, online or telephone visits they can offer connection and compassion when you need it most. Safer at home Medical experts agree that ill and elderly loved ones are safest during this time of COVID-19 when they can be cared for at home, surrounded by loving family members. The hospice team's mission is to help you and support you as you care for your loved one so that it will be a positive and gratifying experience. We are all going through increased stress as we cope with this global pandemic. But the hospice team has exactly the resources and training necessary to provide the reassurance, comfort and hope we need to get through this together. If you need help caring for your loved one at home, call your hospice provider to learn more and find support. About the author: Dr. Karen Wyatt is a former hospice physician who hosts the End-of-Life University Podcast and is the author of the book 7 Lessons for Living from the Dying. Tue, 22 Sep 2020 06:17:49 GMT http://thedenverhospice.org/blog/14877/Hospice-Care-During-COVID-19 http://thedenverhospice.org/blog/14876/The-Denver-Hospice-Opens-New-Support-and-Grief-Center-on-Lowry-Campus blog Denver, Colo. ' The ribbon-cutting celebration was brief and the gathering small (to allow social distancing) but the impact will be huge: The Denver Hospice on Aug. 13 cut the ribbon on its new 24,000-square-feet Amy Davis Hospice Support Center. Named in honor of the late philanthropist Amy Davis, the center opened its doors on The Denver Hospice's Lowry Campus at 8289 East Lowry Blvd. in Denver. The brief event marking the opening highlighted how this serves as a symbol of The Denver Hospice's long-term commitment to serve the region with high-quality and compassionate care. The new building is adjacent to The Denver Hospice Inpatient Care Center, which has a homelike setting and 24 private suites with patios. The addition of the Amy Davis Hospice Support Center will prepare the community's largest not-for-profit hospice provider for the future by increasing capacity so programs and services can be expanded. 'The center allows us to expand the Footprints children's care program, enhance adult and child bereavement services, increase space available for medical education, provide a complimentary meeting space for other not-for-profit organizations, and greatly reduce administrative operational costs ' allowing more resources to go to patient care,' said Melinda Egging, president of The Denver Hospice. The building also will be the home of Care Synergy, a network of not-for-profit Colorado hospice, palliative and home health providers including The Denver Hospice. See a video of the ribbon cutting here >> An intimate celebration marked the opening on Aug. 13, 2020 of the Amy Davis Hospice Support Center, built on The Denver Hospice's Lowry Campus. The Denver Hospice President Melinda Egging spoke to attendees outside the new building and toured the interior with Tim Bowen, president and CEO of the Care Synergy network, and guests. The Denver Hospice is an affiliate of the Care Synergy network and both not-for-profit organizations will use the new space. Photos by Ellen Jaskol. Mon, 17 Aug 2020 03:58:42 GMT http://thedenverhospice.org/blog/14876/The-Denver-Hospice-Opens-New-Support-and-Grief-Center-on-Lowry-Campus http://thedenverhospice.org/blog/14875/How-to-Grieve-Together-as-a-Community blog The year 2020 will go down in history as an unprecedented time when a pandemic, an economic depression and massive protests for racial equality and justice have swept across the entire planet simultaneously. We are living through these challenging days and experiencing trauma and grief along with our community, our nation and all of the world's citizens at the same time." While we often view grief as a solitary process ' something we have to deal with by ourselves ' the uniqueness of our current situation calls us to find new ways to come together with our neighbors and share our sorrow with one another. These historic global events are affecting all of us both individually and collectively." So the time is right to learn how to grieve together with our fellow humans and find support and hope through our coming together, even in a time of quarantine. Here are some tips for joining the communal grief project of our world: Acknowledge your personal grief The first step is to get in touch with your own grief, whether it is for the death of a loved one or for other losses you have experienced, such as loss of a job, relationship, social activity or daily routine. Identify all of the losses that are contributing to your feelings of grief and name them, perhaps by writing in a journal, drawing a picture, making a collage or a poster you can hang on a bulletin board. Create a space for grief Find a tiny corner with a table or a shelf or windowsill in one room of your house to serve as your grief altar. Place there a candle, flower, picture, and some other symbolic memento like a stone, shell or crystal. Visit this space every day and spend a few moments of silence there as a way of honoring this time of grief. Place your grief journal or picture on or near your altar." Recognize the suffering of others Next it is important to become aware of how current events are affecting other people. Read stories of people who have lost loved ones to COVID-19, or of medical providers who are giving care on the front lines, or death care workers who are responding to the need for remote funerals and burial ceremonies. Also read about the economic hardships that people around the world are facing and the police brutality that is robbing our fellow citizens of life, freedom and dignity." Take off your blinders to see clearly the reality of the suffering of other people in this world. Make a list of these collective losses to add to your own grief journal or collage or poster. Expand your circle of compassion On a blank sheet of paper list your own personal losses in the center of the page and draw a circle around them. Then draw a larger circle almost to the edge of the page. Inside the larger circle write down the suffering and grief you have been learning about through your reading. As you think about the suffering of other people that is taking place simultaneously with your own grief, focus on expanding your own boundaries of concern and care. Envision enlarging the small circle of your compassion until it grows large enough to hold all of the other suffering you have listed on the page. Now you are merging your own pain with the collective pain of the planet. Create rituals for our collective losses Once you have created a visual image of a circle large enough to hold your grief and that of the larger community you can use it as a basis for healing rituals that acknowledge and carry this pain. For example you might begin by lighting a candle then focusing on your own losses and grief. Feel your heart opening to the sorrow of your current situation, but also to love and peace. Then gradually turn your attention to the pain of the larger circle and send love and peace to all who are suffering, wherever they may be. When we are able to recognize that others are experiencing loss and pain even while we are in the midst of our own grief, we can find comfort in knowing that we are not alone. In fact, sharing the challenges facing the planet with the rest of humanity can make it easier to bear the burden of loss and to find a path through it. If there is any consolation in the difficult year of 2020 it is that we have an opportunity to come together as one world and to help each other grow stronger and more compassionate." Tue, 28 Jul 2020 06:07:28 GMT http://thedenverhospice.org/blog/14875/How-to-Grieve-Together-as-a-Community http://thedenverhospice.org/blog/14874/A-Legacy-of-Commitment-to-the-Jewish-Community blog The Denver Hospice is the only Colorado hospice and palliative care provider to receive accreditation from the National Institute for Jewish Hospice (NIJH). The recognition 'testifies to the hospice's desire and their ability to serve their Jewish clients in a culturally sensitive way.' The Denver Hospice was co-founded by a Jewish oncology nurse in 1978 and has been accredited by the NIJH since 2007." Annually, a representative from The Denver Hospice attends the NIJH Accreditation Conference to participate in sessions on Jewish medical ethics, end-of-life concerns, and bereavement considerations. The conference attendee then shares this information with care teams at The Denver Hospice, including nurses, social workers and chaplains." This knowledge share and other trainings throughout the year provide a refresher for The Denver Hospice staff on Jewish bereavement and medical practices.'� In addition, through our accreditation with NIJH, our staff receives information sheets prior to prominent Jewish holidays, including background information on traditions and how Jewish families recognize the holidays." The information and support provided through our NIJH accreditation keeps The Denver Hospice staff informed about the impact of Jewish customs at the end of life and helps us to more fully recognize and support our patients and families to meet the unique needs of this community. As a not-for-profit, mission-based hospice, The Denver Hospice is proud to work with patients in the manner most respectful of their religious and personal beliefs -" no matter what those are.'� Learn more here about our commitment to the Jewish community." Wed, 08 Jul 2020 04:15:13 GMT http://thedenverhospice.org/blog/14874/A-Legacy-of-Commitment-to-the-Jewish-Community http://thedenverhospice.org/blog/14873/Virtual-Remembrance-Ceremony-Brings-Us-Together-in-Grief blog We are not alone in our heartache and grief when we lose a loved one, though our isolation because of physical distancing can make it feel as if we are. Two Denver Hospice grief counselors guided a candlelight remembrance ritual to help those whose loved one has passed find support and community." We held a virtual ceremony together, and viewed the video on June 9 to remember our loved ones together. This meaningful but simple ceremony can be done from anywhere." Until we are able to host everyone again in person, please feel free to incorporate a ceremony into your grief journey. You will need a quiet space, two candles ' a smaller candle like a tea light, and a larger-size candle, a lighter, and ten minutes to focus on your loved one. Consider turning your phone on silent, turning down lights and finding a comfortable place to settle in to focus your reflections." The Denver Hospice's Grief Center is open to support you during this difficult time, or any time. Please reach out:" GroupBereavement@care4denver.org 303-321-2828 Wed, 10 Jun 2020 01:09:03 GMT http://thedenverhospice.org/blog/14873/Virtual-Remembrance-Ceremony-Brings-Us-Together-in-Grief http://thedenverhospice.org/blog/14872/How-we-Honored-Our-Caregivers-for-Their-Service blog As we face the COVID-19 pandemic, the role of hospice and palliative care providers is especially vital as they care for a particularly vulnerable population. The palliative care and hospice population is already facing underlying serious illness and is at heightened risk for the novel coronavirus. COVID-19 has brought new challenges with safer-at-home guidelines, visitor restrictions in both long-term care and hospital settings, and so much more. As palliative and hospice professionals, our clinical staff primarily deliver care in the home or location of the patient instead of at clinics or hospitals."These frontline healthcare workers have been faced with new challenges and have responded remarkably. The Denver Hospice recently recognized their clinical staff in a unique way. The volunteers and leadership of The Denver Hospice delivered special signs to the homes of clinical staff who deliver care to homes of seriously ill patients each day. Over 200 'Home of a Hero ' Thank You' signs were delivered across the metro area. Using a contact-free sign deployment system, we made sure every clinician came home to see our heartfelt gratitude. We stand behind and support our frontline hospice and palliative care workers and are grateful for their service every day. Click here to see highlights from the sign delivery on our Facebook page Thu, 04 Jun 2020 12:00:44 GMT http://thedenverhospice.org/blog/14872/How-we-Honored-Our-Caregivers-for-Their-Service http://thedenverhospice.org/blog/14871/Advance-Care-Planning-Support-Materials-Available blog Advance care planning is one of the most important things you can do to ensure your wishes are honored in health care decisions if you're not able to advocate for yourself. Melissa Davis, LCSW, of The Denver Hospice shared why this is such an important step for every adult, and tips for getting started on a webinar we presented in partnership with the Colorado Department of Public Health and Environment and the Center for Improving Value in Health Care." We recently heard from one of our volunteers just how important advance care planning and conversations were for her. Her husband contracted COVID-19 and needed to be intubated. 'I don't know what I would do if we had not had the form filled out and more importantly, a very detailed discussion about what we wanted. It has been a guiding light for me with his care,' she noted." Melissa pointed out in the webinar that the majority of people think that these conversations and planning are important, but just haven't taken the first step yet. However, it's the surest way your loved ones and medical team know what your priorities are for your care. To put your priorities on paper, start with our webinar, and then check out the resources Melissa highlights." See the slides Melissa presented Read answers to questions raised around the webinar Watch the webinar on YouTube Mon, 18 May 2020 11:06:04 GMT http://thedenverhospice.org/blog/14871/Advance-Care-Planning-Support-Materials-Available http://thedenverhospice.org/blog/14870/Connecting-With-Our-Loved-Ones-When-We-Can-t-Be-Together blog In these unprecedented days of the global pandemic due to COVID-19, many of us are suffering due to the necessity of being separated from our loved ones, even if they are in the hospital, or a long-term care or hospice facility. The inability to be at the bedside of the people we care about when they are seriously ill or dying causes even greater grief and pain than we are already experiencing due to their condition. However during this challenging time it is important to remember that our love is not limited by time or distance. Love, like energy, is universal and can never be destroyed. In fact by using our creativity we can find ways to connect and communicate with our loved ones even when we can't be physically present with them. Here are some suggestions for sharing our love at a distance: Call or video chat If your loved one has a phone or tablet you may be able to call them or arrange to have a video chat online, providing they are able to participate. This may require the help of a staff person if the patient doesn't know how to use the device or isn't well enough to talk on their own. Remember to keep your conversation brief and focus on the messages that really matter: love, forgiveness and gratitude. Mail cards and letters You can express your feelings in writing and send old-fashioned mail to your loved one at the facility where they are receiving care. If they are well enough to read you can compose a letter describing why you love them and showing your gratitude. If reading is difficult you could send a drawing with just a few words of love that could be placed near the bedside for your loved one to see. Make a small photo album Compile some special photos into a small album and mail it to the facility. Not only will your loved one enjoy seeing the pictures but they can share them with staff members too to help them get familiar with the patient's circle of love. Record messages or music On a smart phone you can record voice messages that can be sent to your loved one's phone or tablet and played for them. You could also send an ipod that has been pre-loaded with your loved one's favorite music so it can be played for them when they are feeling lonely. Daily dose of love If there comes a time when you are no longer able to talk with your loved one, you might create a small altar or area in your home devoted to that person with a photo, candle, flowers and any special items that remind you of them. Each day set aside time to think about them and send love and gratitude across the distance that separates you. Remember again the key messages of love, forgiveness and gratitude as you contemplate your relationship. Hold a family vigil When death is drawing near you can design a family vigil where you and others can come together online through a platform like Zoom or Skype. Light candles to begin your vigil, read poems or prayers, and ask each person to tell a story about your loved one to honor them. Keep sending your love throughout the vigil and envision it surrounding your loved one with comfort, light and peace. Imagine that you are right beside your person, watching over them and accompanying them during this time. We hope that you will find comforting ways to connect with your loved one as we navigate this challenging time together. As you hold a vision of your loved one, no matter where they may be, remember to send your love to those who are caring for them as well. The staff members of hospitals and nursing facilities are under a great deal of stress right now and doing their best to stand-in for family and friends so that their patients will not feel alone. By offering the caregivers your love too you are helping to sustain and comfort them as well. Until that day in the future when this pandemic resolves may we all learn new ways to love and care at a distance. Thu, 07 May 2020 02:39:08 GMT http://thedenverhospice.org/blog/14870/Connecting-With-Our-Loved-Ones-When-We-Can-t-Be-Together http://thedenverhospice.org/blog/14869/Spread-Hope-on-Giving-Tuesday blog COVID-19 has made a big impact on all of us ' especially our medical staff, patients and families. Elderly individuals, those with underlying health issues and those with impaired immune systems are the most at-risk for COVID-19 and its complications. The Denver Hospice is committed to providing excellent care, resources and hope to our community during this critical time. To continue this important work, we need your help. Please consider making a donation to The Denver Hospice this Tuesday, May 5 during #GivingTuesdayNow. This day of global giving and unity was instituted (in addition to #GivingTuesday held each December) to respond to the unprecedented needs caused by COVID-19. By participating on this day, you will join a unique, global effort to support for our front-line workers and patients. There are three ways to join us on Tuesday, May 5: Your financial contribution will make it possible for us to continue to provide excellent care and equip our field clinicians with the resources they need: With a $100 gift, you provide lifesaving N95 masks for 4 hospice workers for one week With a gift of $500, you provide that same protection for one month If sewing is your talent or you are looking for a creative and helpful outlet, we are also in need of cloth masks. Get instructions and arrange pickup by visiting this page. Spread the word. Encourage your friends and family to join you in creating real impact on May 5 by sharing what our mission means to you and why you support our organization. Start a fundraiser on Facebook or simply share a post with your network. Together we can heal. Together we can spread hope. "Click here to start your secure online gift today. Wed, 29 Apr 2020 04:14:41 GMT http://thedenverhospice.org/blog/14869/Spread-Hope-on-Giving-Tuesday http://thedenverhospice.org/blog/14867/Free-Webinar-to-Explore-Advance-Care-Planning-on-Wed---April-22 blog Advance care planning addresses the health care you would want to receive in a medical crisis - based on your values, preferences, and conversations with your loved ones. The COVID-19 pandemic has made this issue more pressing for many Coloradans. While there's much we can't control, we can make informed decisions to give the people closest to us the power to confidently make health care decisions for us in the event that becomes necessary. All adults should make time for these conversations, but they're especially important for those who are over 60 years old and are living with chronic health conditions such as heart, lung or kidney disease or cancer. Along with the Colorado Department of Public Health and Environment and the Center for Improving Value in Health Care, we will host a free 30-minute webinar on advance care planning Wednesday, April 22 at 10 a.m. We will outline free resources to help you or a loved one explore the topic in an informed way. While there's no cost for the webinar, registration is required and space is limited. Please visit this page to sign up. The webinar will feature a presentation by Melissa Davis, a licensed clinical social worker with The Denver Hospice and Optio Palliative Care. Hear Melissa share about the importance of advanced care planning in this story from Colorado Public Radio. Melissa focuses on working with people with chronic and terminal illnesses and is highly experienced in helping clients and their loved ones negotiate difficult transitions and losses. Melissa is deeply passionate about biomedical ethics and advance directives. For more information about the webinar or for assistance signing up and participating online, please contact Kari Degerness of the Center for Improving Value in Health Care at 720-484-4112 or KDegerness@civhc.org. Tue, 14 Apr 2020 07:05:51 GMT http://thedenverhospice.org/blog/14867/Free-Webinar-to-Explore-Advance-Care-Planning-on-Wed---April-22 http://thedenverhospice.org/blog/14868/How-We-Are-Handling-the-COVID-19-Outbreak blog The well-being and safety of our clients and patients is our highest priority. We are closely monitoring and responding to the coronavirus (COVID-19) outbreak as information comes in. In keeping with CDC guidelines, if you are a person in our care, client or a caregiver experiencing a fever, cough, or respiratory symptoms, please call our office. For the most current advisories about COVID-19 please visit this page from the CDC. Click here to learn more about how we are handling the COVID-19 outbreak. Sun, 05 Apr 2020 08:25:56 GMT http://thedenverhospice.org/blog/14868/How-We-Are-Handling-the-COVID-19-Outbreak http://thedenverhospice.org/blog/14866/5-Questions-to-Ask-Before-Naming-a-Healthcare-Proxy blog You may already know what kind of healthcare you would like to receive when you reach the later years of your life. But, to ensure that your future healthcare wishes are followed, one of the most important steps you can take is to name someone you know as your 'healthcare proxy.' This person will speak for you if you are unable to communicate and will make sure your medical providers know your preferences. This crucial role shouldn't be entrusted to just anyone, so it's wise to make a careful decision. After all, your oldest child or nearest relative may not be the best person for the task, even if that person seems like a logical choice. Write down the names of several people you are considering for your healthcare proxy and then ask these 5 questions about each of them: Does she understand my healthcare wishes? A recent study at Yale University showed that only about 20% of the healthcare surrogates they interviewed accurately understood the wishes of the patient they represented. To speak on your behalf your proxy must have a very clear grasp of your preferences. Pick someone who not only comprehends what you have chosen, but who also recognizes why you have made your choices. Does he agree with my wishes? Ideally your proxy should be in agreement with your decisions and have no concerns about them in order to advocate for you. Some people may be able to support your wishes even if they don't agree with them, but you need to be certain that your feelings will take priority in any situation that may arise. Will this person be available to speak for me in an emergency? Your healthcare proxy may need to travel to the hospital on short notice at inconvenient times to speak on your behalf. The person you choose for this role should be someone who is flexible and cares enough to go out of the way for you. Is he or she emotionally strong enough to make a decision in a crisis situation? The person you choose may have to make difficult decisions for you on the spur of the moment. Make sure your proxy will not allow their own grief feelings to interfere with acting on your behalf. They may also have to stand up for you if family members and medical professionals disagree with your choices so choose someone who can handle those challenging situations. Do you trust this person? Your own 'gut feeling' is important to assess when you consider your choice for healthcare proxy. Make sure you trust this person completely since you may be putting your own future in his or her hands. If something doesn't 'feel' right to you about this person, spend some time thinking of someone else who is a better fit. No matter who you end up choosing to be your healthcare proxy, that person needs to understand the requirements of this important role. Schedule time for a long conversation and bring along your wishes in writing. Be prepared to answer any questions that arise and suggest a follow-up discussion if needed. Your next steps are to put your wishes and the name of your healthcare proxy into writing by completing the appropriate advance directive (or living will) forms for your state of residence. Then share them with your family, friends, clergy and healthcare providers. Congratulations on taking the time now to protect your future wellbeing and increase your peace of mind. Wed, 04 Mar 2020 06:42:28 GMT http://thedenverhospice.org/blog/14866/5-Questions-to-Ask-Before-Naming-a-Healthcare-Proxy http://thedenverhospice.org/blog/14865/Human-Animal-Bond-In-Colorado blog It takes a very special HABIC team to visit in a hospice setting. One such team is Susie Davis and her Golden Retriever, Gracie. Susie and Gracie have been volunteering at The Denver Hospice since 2017. They visit the Inpatient Care Center every week and have some moving experiences we would like to share. Susie and Gracie During a visit with a man who was unresponsive and very near the end of his life, Susie entered the room and introduced herself and Gracie. The man made no response, but Susie decided to sit next to the man in silence. After 15 minutes had passed, Susie got up to leave. As she neared the door the man surprised her when he quietly uttered, 'Good-bye Gracie.' This experience truly shows how intuitive Susie was to take the time to sit next to someone, and how impactful it can be to just be in the presence of someone who is at the end of their life, whether they are responsive or not. During a different visit, Susie and Gracie were in the Hospice main lobby. They saw two teary-eyed little girls, and they wanted to pet Gracie. As they did, it brought on more tears. Their grandma was near the end of her life and Gracie was able to bring them some comfort. Then the girls' mom appeared, and she shared with Susie that her mom once had a Golden named Gracie! Everyone took this as a sign that Gracie needed to visit this patient. As Susie put the grandma's hand on Gracie's head the daughter said, 'Gracie's here mom. It's okay to go.' A few hours later, Hospice called Susie to share that the patient passed away peacefully soon after they had left. These two stories are a small sample of how one human-animal HABIC team can bring healing and comfort to so many people, even in just a single visit. Susie and her amazing dog, Gracie, have brought some much needed comfort to the people of The Denver Hospice, and make such an impact to so many more every week. Thank you, Susie and Gracie, for the outstanding work that you do for HABIC and The Denver Hospice community! ABOUT HABIC The love of a companion animal is uncomplicated and unconditional, naturally received and returned by people of all ages. Housed in the School of Social Work at Colorado State University, HABIC sponsors animal therapy programs, education, and research to explore and advance the benefits of the human-animal bond. Thu, 30 Jan 2020 08:59:16 GMT http://thedenverhospice.org/blog/14865/Human-Animal-Bond-In-Colorado http://thedenverhospice.org/blog/14864/Why-Patients-Live-Longer-With-Hospice-Care blog Even though hospice care has been available in the U.S. for nearly 50 years there are still many misperceptions about hospice that are common in our society. One of the most unfortunate of these mistaken beliefs is that 'hospice care hastens death.' In fact, studies have shown that patients who enroll in hospice actually live longer than those with similar illnesses who do not receive hospice care. In my own experience as a hospice physician I have seen many patients who lived far longer than anyone expected once they began receiving the supportive services provided by our hospice team. In addition they also experienced an increased quality of living during those extra days of life. For example, one patient was expected to live just a few weeks but discovered a new love for creating pencil drawings and actually lived for an entire year after he started hospice care. Clearly hospice care can provide the gift of extra days of life for those who choose to receive it during the course of their illness. But how is this unexpected outcome possible? Here are some of the reasons why hospice patients live longer: They receive care at home Most hospice patients are cared for wherever they live, whether in their own home or an assisted living or long-term care facility. Surrounded by the people and pets they love and the possessions they have cherished over a lifetime, patients are much more comfortable being at home than in a sterile hospital environment. In addition patients and families can set their own time schedules and 'rules' at home rather than adhering to the necessary structure that exists in a hospital. Patient comfort is a priority One of the most important missions of every hospice team is to manage their patients' symptoms so that they can be as comfortable as possible and the staff receives special training in order to acquire this expertise. Patients are freer to engage with their loved ones and find meaning in their last days when they are comfortable and their symptoms are well-managed. There is a shift in focus Many patients report feeling relieved and energized once they enter hospice care because they are no longer focused on receiving treatment. There are no more exhausting visits to clinics or treatment centers and no more side effects from aggressive medications. During their days in hospice care the emphasis is on living well as long as possible and the staff assists the patient and family in creating whatever experiences are meaningful and matter to each of them. There is time to talk, share stories, laugh together, express love, and complete some simple 'bucket list' items. They connect more deeply with loved ones The hospice team is also trained to provide support to the patient's caregivers at home. When families and friends come together to care for a loved one there are numerous opportunities for healing old issues, resolving past conflicts, and finding a deeper connection. While caregiving may be challenging, it is also a way to express love to the patient and can help soften the experience of grief later on. There is time to find meaning One of the most important tasks for people at the end of life is to discover the meaning of their own existence. It takes time to contemplate the path of one's life and to complete the inner work of forgiveness, reconciliation, surrender, and gratitude. Patients who are cared for by those they love in familiar surroundings have the comfort, time and solitude needed for this work. In addition, the hospice team, which includes a social worker and chaplain, is well-trained to provide a listening presence and support this final journey of life. Considering the fact that hospice care helps patients find comfort, dignity, connection with loved ones, laughter, meaning, and quality of life in their final days, it is not so surprising that hospice patients live longer than those who do not choose hospice. By enrolling in hospice earlier in the course of illness, patients and their loved ones can receive this remarkable gift of extra days to love one another and to cherish life itself. Remember this good news and share it far and wide when and if the need for the supportive care of hospice arises. Fri, 24 Jan 2020 04:01:08 GMT http://thedenverhospice.org/blog/14864/Why-Patients-Live-Longer-With-Hospice-Care http://thedenverhospice.org/blog/14863/Inpatient-Care-Center-Virtual-Tour blog Our centrally located building has 24 private suites with patios. The homelike setting includes amenities like a family dining room, day rooms, a multi-faith chapel, library and hydro-therapy spa. Original artworks by distinguished area artists decorate our common areas and patient rooms. Gardens, walkways and high-tech innovations add to the light-filled ambiance and comforts of our Inpatient Care Center. Watch the video below to take a tour of the Inpatient Care Center. Mon, 13 Jan 2020 08:08:16 GMT http://thedenverhospice.org/blog/14863/Inpatient-Care-Center-Virtual-Tour http://thedenverhospice.org/blog/14862/Redefining-Hope-in-Hospice-Care blog The Denver Hospice sets the standard for providing peace and comfort to patients navigating their end-of-life journey. When a loved one is faced with a chronic illness, the immediate hope is that they get better. But when the diagnosis shifts from chronic to terminal, and curative treatment is no longer desired, it's time to shift that hope for a cure to a hope for ending life as painlessly and joyfully as possible. 'Sending someone to hospice is one of the most difficult decisions we make in life,' says Melinda Egging, president of The Denver Hospice. 'I understand the hesitation that patients have before turning to us. Families may feel they're giving up, like their hope has drained away. That's not the case'hospice is a time to redefine what hope looks like and offer solutions to end life with dignity, surrounded by people who care.' Founded in 1978 by Carolyn Jaffe and Dr. Peter Van Arsdale and now servicing more than 6,000 patients each year, The Denver Hospice has become the region's largest and most trusted not-for-profit provider of hospice and palliative care for patients of all ages. Here, Egging and a diverse team of specialists come together to make the most of every end-of-life journey. Personalized and Multidisciplinary Care When time is limited, patients want to be with their family, their pets, and their favorite blanket. They want to be where they're most familiar. With routine hospice care, patients can receive treatment from the comfort of their own home. But if their symptoms require more monitoring, The Denver Hospice also offers a continuum of care that includes general inpatient hospice care, continuous care, and respite care. For all stages of the end-of-life journey, The Denver Hospice provides a multidisciplinary team of professionals. Beyond the full-time, board-certified medical physicians and nurse practitioners, the team also includes nurses, social workers, chaplains, bereavement counselors, and more than 300 volunteers. 'If someone is in spiritual distress, our chaplains are excellent at helping patients and families through existential conversations,' says Egging. 'Volunteers are available for bedside companionship, conversation, and to give caregivers a break. And I can't say enough about our certified nursing assistants'they provide support for each patient's daily living, including helping them shave, bathe, and get dressed. They have so much kindness and grace. I think that they're heroes.' Finishing Strong As difficult as it is to hear a loved one say that they're ready for hospice care, it's crucial to respect their decision. In the end, it is the patient's choice to end life on their own terms. But the end never has to be a hopeless affair. 'The care that we provide is centered on giving, not taking away,' Egging says. 'We believe in less pain and more quality of life. We want patients to create moments of joy with family and friends.' 'Our inpatient care center has seen so many graduations, weddings, and ceremonies,' she continues. 'One elderly man's wish was to play with his band one last time, so we set up an area in the care center, and the man had a jam session for an hour with his friends. When he was done, he felt tired but fulfilled. These are the types of moments we give patients to help them create new memories.' Tue, 07 Jan 2020 04:11:41 GMT http://thedenverhospice.org/blog/14862/Redefining-Hope-in-Hospice-Care http://thedenverhospice.org/blog/14861/Five-Reasons-Why-Hospice-Care-is-the-Best-Possible-Healthcare blog The modern hospice movement began in the post-World War II era with the vision of Dr. Cicely Saunders, who recognized a need for compassionate care of the dying that maintained the patient's comfort, dignity and sense of meaning. Today in the US, according to the National Hospice and Palliative Care Organization, hospice services are received by nearly 1.5 million Medicare beneficiaries each year at the end of life. Hospice providers here and around the world fulfill Cicely Saunders' vision for care of the dying every day, which is celebrated and acknowledged during National Hospice and Palliative Care Month each November. But the type of care provided in hospice is not just beneficial at the end of life, it represents the best possible healthcare available and should be a role model for the entire medical system. Here are five features that make hospice care not only unique but also extraordinary: Patient-centered care One of the foundations of hospice care from the beginning of the movement has been its focus on the patient first. While it seems obvious that all health care should be centered around the patient, the fact is that our medical system is actually disease-centered. Doctors, clinics and even hospitals often specialize in particular diseases and treatment plans are standardized based on the diagnosis with little or no regard for the uniqueness of each patient. When a patient enrolls in hospice, the actual diagnosis does not determine the plan of care, but instead the patient's wishes, symptoms, and preferences are all taken into consideration along with the needs of the family and loved ones. Therefore the actual services received by each patient are individualized within the parameters established for quality hospice care. Comfort is a priority In accordance with the vision of Cicely Saunders, the primary goal of hospice care is to help the patient be comfortable at the end of life, by prioritizing pain and symptom management. Comfort is often overlooked in other healthcare sectors as patients are left to sit in skimpy gowns on hard exam tables for long waiting periods, ignored or interrupted when they try to discuss symptoms, or subjected to painful or embarrassing tests and procedures without acknowledgement. Hospice providers are highly skilled in addressing pain and discomfort and will fine-tune the approach to symptom management according to the individual needs of each patient. Some patients prefer to take less medication while others desire maximum relief'hospice staff members are trained to accommodate each person's wishes and to adjust the plan as needed throughout the course of illness. Team-based care for the whole person Unlike other types of healthcare that rely primarily on individual medical providers, hospice care is delivered by a team of practitioners who work together to meet the needs of each patient. The team consists of a doctor, nurse, home health aide, chaplain, social worker, and volunteer who each contribute their expertise to the care of the patient. This team approach results in meeting all of the patient's needs: physical, mental, emotional, and spiritual. This whole-person care is a hallmark of hospice and has been offered since Dr. Saunders opened the doors of the first modern hospice in London. This team-based approach to the whole patient ensures that nothing is left out or ignored in the effort to provide comfort, dignity and meaning at the end of life. Certainly other healthcare entities would do well to emulate this superior model for care of the whole person. Family-inclusive care Not only does the hospice team consider the needs of the whole patient, but the family and loved ones of patients are included in the services provided as well. Hospice teams offer education and training to family caregivers and also bereavement support and counseling for loved ones, which help them find comfort for themselves throughout the grieving process. Relationships with family and friends are of utmost importance to many hospice patients and the hospice staff can facilitate the mending of those relationships or the creation of new positive bonding experiences to ease the pain of saying goodbye. Home-based care The majority of hospice care is delivered in the place where the patient resides, whether that is the family home or an assisted-living or skilled care facility. One of the unique benefits of bringing hospice care to the home is that" patients are surrounded by the people, objects and memories that have given meaning to their lives. They can find greater comfort and peace in this familiar environment than in an impersonal hospital setting. In addition, hospice providers can learn a great deal about the patient and family by visiting their home and can forge even deeper relationships with them in those surroundings. Cultural and religious preferences are also easier to honor within the comfort of home, which is another example of meeting the needs of the whole patient through the compassionate practice of hospice care. ### This month as we honor the legacy of hospice that was once just a dream in the imagination of Dr. Cicely Saunders, there is still a need to educate the public that hospice care is actually the best possible healthcare available. Because of taboos in our society against talking about death there are still misconceptions of hospice care and what it offers to those at the end of life. But the entire healthcare system could benefit by recognizing that these unique standards of patient care maintained by hospices around the world should be adopted in every specialty for patients of all ages and stages of health. All patients deserve to be treated as whole persons, honored for their unique needs as part of a family and community, while maintaining comfort, dignity and meaning. This is another dream that Cicely Saunders has inspired that will hopefully become a reality one day. For now, get acquainted with your local hospice and share the benefits of hospice care with everyone you know during National Hospice and Palliative Care Month. Thu, 21 Nov 2019 08:37:51 GMT http://thedenverhospice.org/blog/14861/Five-Reasons-Why-Hospice-Care-is-the-Best-Possible-Healthcare http://thedenverhospice.org/blog/14860/How-to-Support-a-Loved-One-with-Alzheimer-s-After-Spousal-Loss blog Seeing a loved one lose a spouse is difficult no matter what. You have your own grief to process, as well as theirs. When the surviving spouse has Alzheimer's, however, the experience can be much more complicated. Not only do you have to juggle managing grief in the context of memory problems, but you may also have to reevaluate your loved one's financial, caregiving, and living situations. Here are some guidelines to help you navigate this situation. Balancing Grief, Honesty, and Compassion Depending on your loved one's degree of memory loss, it may be tempting to hide or diminish the truth of their spouse's passing. For many people, this feels like the more compassionate choice, especially when the alternative could mean exposing them to the loss repeatedly. However, it's important to tell your loved one their spouse has passed. They deserve the chance to"know and to grieve, even if they forget after some time. Whether you choose to retell them is a trickier decision, but many people find that the repetition is worth it. In some cases, older people hold on"through serious illnesses for the sake of their spouse. In many cases, once the loved one understands that their spouse has passed on, they're able to do so themselves much more peacefully when the time comes. However, depending on how far your loved one's Alzheimer's has progressed, you may decide it's more compassionate to simply tell them once, or cease telling them after some time. In situations where the patient has an intense reaction every time, it can be kinder to refrain from bringing the spouse up and to find gentle ways to redirect if they notice the absence. Remember: You know your loved one best, and the choice is yours. It's unlikely to be a black and white solution ' you may find some moments it's better to redirect, and others may provide opportunities to grieve healthily together. Your loved one's dementia will make your grief more complicated as well. Whether you decide to remind them of their loss or not, the moments that they ask can be emotionally difficult for you. Although some times may be easier than others, give yourself space to process the"nuanced feelings"that do come up. Going Over the Options Depending on your family's arrangement prior to the loss, you may need to help your loved one figure out their living situation. If the spouse who passed was the patient's primary caregiver, you will need to go over new care options. Depending on your availability and comfort giving care, you may choose to"move in"with your loved one, or have them move in with you. Unless you're a trained medical professional, however, it's often best to pair this approach with some level of"in-home nursing care. Of course, not all families can provide the level of care needed, in which case it may be best to consider a memory care facility. There are several senior care facilities in Denver designed specifically for people with memory loss. You should expect a program to provide plenty of physically and"mentally stimulating activities"to keep your loved one healthy. In Denver, these facilities cost between"$1,500 and $17,000"per month. Tour them together so you can learn about each location's amenities and what levels of care they provide, as well as get a sense of where your loved one is most comfortable. This will allow you to balance the options and make a strong financial decision. During this time, it might be helpful to obtain a"power of attorney"so you can make decisions for your loved one. It's never easy for a senior to lose their spouse, and Alzheimer's makes the situation that much more complicated. With the right support from you, however, your loved one can get the care and compassion they need to move forward. Thu, 14 Nov 2019 08:39:04 GMT http://thedenverhospice.org/blog/14860/How-to-Support-a-Loved-One-with-Alzheimer-s-After-Spousal-Loss http://thedenverhospice.org/blog/14859/How-to-Have-the-Best-Hospice-Experience-Possible blog If you have a loved one nearing the end of life you may be considering working with a hospice in the future, which is a very good choice. Studies have shown that patients who receive care from hospice at the end of life can experience greater quality of life and better symptom control, but might also live longer than patients who do not enroll in hospice. But not all patients are alike and not all hospices are alike. There are some steps you can take to ensure that your loved one receives the best care and that everyone involved has the best possible experience during this challenging time. Choose your hospice wisely As already mentioned, not all hospices are alike so you will need to do your homework before choosing which provider to work with. First of all, make sure the hospice you pick is accredited (meaning they've met and maintained certain quality standards) and Medicare-certified (the hospice is able to bill Medicare for services.) Next check the Hospice Compare website to get more information about each of the hospices you are considering. Also get word-of-mouth recommendations to find out if other members of your community have had positive experiences with the hospice. The more information you gather, the better the decision you can make. Have a discussion with family members It is important that all family members who are part of your loved one's 'care network' understand why hospice is being considered and the advantages it offers. If anyone has doubts or misgivings about this decision it may cause conflicts later on so it's best to talk together now and address any issues in advance. Often when people have negative feelings toward hospice it is because they lack adequate information or have a misperception about hospice care. Positive discussions can help provide education and insight into the hospice choice so that everyone can feel comfortable with the process. Talk to your medical provider If possible it can be helpful to have your loved one's medical provider make a referral to hospice. However, like other people in our society, some providers are not comfortable talking about hospice or end-of-life issues, so you may be met with a negative response. Don't be discouraged by this because each hospice has its own medical provider who will be in charge of your loved one's care. But by initiating a discussion with your private physician you might actually help inform him or her about the benefits of hospice for future patients. Know your loved one's wishes Does your loved one want to receive care at home throughout the end-of-life process? Who would they want to be surrounded by during the last days of life? These are important questions that you should have answers to before you decide where to engage hospice care. Take time to have a thoughtful discussion so that you are clear about your loved one's preferences. Some people adamantly want to remain at home but others prefer to receive care at a facility where family members can be present as visitors without carrying the burden of care. These choices should guide all of your decisions as you work to fulfill your loved one's wishes. Determine who and how to provide 24/7 care Before hospice care at home begins it is important that you recognize that you will be responsible to provide around-the-clock care for your loved one. Hospice will provide a support team of a nurse, home health aide, social worker, chaplain, and volunteer, who will make regular visits and supervise the care you give. But you will either have to look after your loved one yourself or hire an in-home caregiver. It is extremely challenging for one person alone to be a full-time family caregiver so that's why it's important to have the entire family in agreement about the choice for hospice in the first place. Organize and plan ahead During a family meeting find out who is available and willing to help share caregiving duties. You will need some people who can stay in the home on certain days and others who will take care of running errands, paying bills, making phone calls, preparing meals, etc. By envisioning how you will share the care in advance you can find a suitable job for each person and spread out the tasks so that no one person is over-burdened. This advance planning will help you avoid conflict and burnout as the days go on. Get informed about the end of life The more you know about what to expect as your loved one nears death the more you will be comfortable providing care. Your hospice should be able to offer you some pamphlets and other reading material, but here are some books that you will find very helpful to have at the bedside: Dying: A Natural Passage by Denys Cope RN; Present Through the End by Kirsten DeLeo; and Living with Dying: A Complete Guide for Caregivers by Jahnna Beecham and Katie Ortlip RN. If you follow these steps to prepare in advance before your loved one begins hospice care you will very likely have a much better experience than if you enroll in the midst of a crisis without being informed. The right hospice provider can help you and your loved one find peace and comfort at the end of life and that will make all the difference for you now and in the future. Mon, 09 Sep 2019 05:02:37 GMT http://thedenverhospice.org/blog/14859/How-to-Have-the-Best-Hospice-Experience-Possible http://thedenverhospice.org/blog/14858/Is-your-ambiguity-making-you-ambivalent- blog Are you ambivalent? Most likely, your answer to this question is YES. There are certain subjects, events, and even people that can cause this feeling to rise up within us. I imagine a definition of ambivalent would be helpful. This is one of those words that can be misunderstood. Ambivalence: 1) Simultaneous and contradictory attitudes or feelings (such as attraction and repulsion) toward an object, person, or action. 2a.) continual fluctuation (as between one thing and its opposite). 2b) "Uncertainty as to which approach to follow. www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/ambivalence#h1 When people are at a crossroads or think they are at a crossroads, ambivalent feelings can burst like a volcano onto the scene. 'Should we or shouldn't we?' '"I like him and I hate him.' Order can quickly fall into chaos as individuals and families are suddenly struggling with their feelings and direction for the future." Some people will begin to vacillate like AC current, while others commit to an about-face. I remember when my mother was diagnosed with incurable cancer in 2012 and felt torn between aggressive care and hospice care for her. Which choice should she make? I felt like Dr. Jekyll and Mr. Hyde as I vacillated in my thoughts between aggressive care and hospice. Was the stress bringing on a psychotic event for me? No, I was experiencing ambivalence. Ambivalent feeling can be so disruptive.'� Families experience chaos when ambivalence shows up. Members of a family who were all in agreement with a plan and course of action for their loved one suddenly switch sides, directions, and alliances. Why would they change their mind, alter their goals, switch allegiances, and go against their loved one's wishes? Ambivalence. Crossroads will do this. When people feel uncertainty and when they haven't sorted out their feelings and goals, ambivalence can burst onto the scene. But could there also be something else at play? Yes! Ambiguity Ambiguity means "unclear or capable of being understood in two or more different ways." www.merriam-webster.com/words-at-play/ambiguous-vs-ambivalent I remember very clearly when my mom first found that lump. First evaluations were, 'It's probably just a cyst or a benign tumor.' But when it grew from the size of a small lime to that of a grapefruit in just one month the doctors weren't talking about a cyst or a benign tumor any longer. Cancer was now gently being mentioned as a possibility. 'But we won't know for sure till we do further testing...' Immediately after mastectomy, the surgeon assured our family. '"I got it all, there's nothing to worry about. She'll be fine.' But when the pathology reports came back a week later, my mother's next appointment was with the oncologist. And the pathology report was not good. The oncologist's words are still indelibly etched on our minds. 'I'm sorry. You have incurable cancer and it's exceedingly aggressive and has already spread... At best you have 4 months to live.' My mother's journey is fairly typical. Families tell me their journey has also been a white- knuckle roller-coaster ride, filled with sharp turns and quick drops. As a patient and family reflects on all the messaging they've received, they often liken it to an echo chamber of chattering voices with confusing and contradictory messages. Mind you, this is all mixed with their emotions and the stages of grief. It is no wonder patients and families are overwhelmed with a sense of ambiguity." For many, the messaging has been all over the map. Hind sight can often be 20/20. After years of reflection, I understand how my ambivalence was also affected by the ambiguity. All the mixed messages and my fears led me to feelings of ambivalence. These were the thoughts I had at the time: Should my mother have another consultation? Maybe the doctors are wrong. They are just 'practicing medicine'. Maybe chemo and radiation will put this cancer into remission? How can they be so sure! My mother's tough, she's a fighter, she often wins against the odds. Why make her suffer? Shouldn't we be looking at hospice for her? Hasn't she been through enough?" She's approaching 80 years old and is content with her life and accomplishments. Is this for you, Brian, or for her? I trust my personal experience will help you in yours. Understanding our choices and feelings, and the messaging we are receiving, will help us to make the right decisions. In the end, the oncologists were correct. My mother died four months after being diagnosed. Two months after the diagnosis, we enrolled her into hospice and they did a great job managing her pain and keeping her comfortable until she died. Thu, 25 Jul 2019 04:46:42 GMT http://thedenverhospice.org/blog/14858/Is-your-ambiguity-making-you-ambivalent- http://thedenverhospice.org/blog/14857/Expressions-of-the-Pen blog How do we express our grief? Personal grief and work grief needs to be expressed - appropriately. As humans, we experience an enormous amount of grief - ours, our colleagues, our families, and our community's. What is our outlet? Our pressure valve? We can't safely hold it in for very long. It will kill us ' literally! I would like to offer to you a wonderful outlet or pressure release valve ' writing. We can privately write in a journal, do an online-blog, write poetry, or even publish an article or pen a book. As long as you are comfortable doing it, this can be a wonderful expression and outlet for one's stress and grief. "Clearly I'm not against exercise or other outlets of grief expression ' I'm all for them. I'm simply suggesting a different form - one that is totally free. And personally, I find that writing engages both sides of my brain, hence tricking my heart to open and expel the sorrow that at times becomes wedged and difficult to extricate. Below is simply an example of my grief expression. I hope you too will engage in some writing of your own. And I bet you'll be amazed at the benefits you'll reap. My mother died in December 2012, nearly 7 years ago, from inflammatory -breast cancer. The cancer was fast and unstoppable. From diagnosis to death was only 4 months. Concurrently carrying the grief of both my personal life and the hospice work that I do was substantial. But such is life' Three years later, (2015), I wrote an article about my grief experience. And just last week I wrote this poem about that grief I was feeling - 6 months after her death in June 2013. My hope is that this will inspire you to explore your mind and heart and discover a new (or dusty) outlet of expression. And as you can see from my example, it can even be grief from many years in the past. Grieving my Mother Lorraine Edna Miranda 1935-2012 Cold Days Long Nights Chilling Wind, Makes Me Shiver Cold Heart Dimming Sight, My Mother's Death " " " " " - In the Throes of Winter. Six Months Future The Season has altered Emerald Leaves Now Cloth the Deciduous of Indignation " " " " " - With Shimmers of Delight. Scarred and Naked Trails Now Attired in Verdant Color " " " " " - Entice My Desire for Exploration Blue Skies Tantalize Luxuriant Streams Seduce Feathered Choirs Sing " " " " " - Exuberance is their Refrain But My Dormant heart Still Caught in Winter. My Sap Still Stuck Way Down Hither. I'll Grieve Good. It's My Season - " " " " " My Clock, My Drumbeat Pays No Respect to Time One Day the Sap Will Rise My Living Soul Will Burst with Color Fragrant Leaves and Flowers, -Will Shamelessly Caress Me'Again But Not Now ' I'm on Hiatus. Wed, 19 Jun 2019 06:24:06 GMT http://thedenverhospice.org/blog/14857/Expressions-of-the-Pen http://thedenverhospice.org/blog/14856/Why-Hospice-Care-Should-Begin-Sooner-Rather-than-Later blog Christopher Gray was a devoted husband who wanted his wife Lily to have the best care available when she was diagnosed with a terminal illness. However she spent all but the last week of her life in significant discomfort while being admitted to and released from the hospital multiple times. When Lily was finally enrolled in hospice care just before she died, she was able to remain in their home and receive the symptom relief she had needed for months, but there was very little time left for her to enjoy with her family. Sadly this scenario happens every day in end-of-life care: patients get admitted to hospice just before they die and experience only a few days of comfort care and peaceful time with their loved ones. In fact a recent study from Yale University shows that half of all hospice patients are admitted too late to fully benefit from the care being offered. Research suggests that these delayed admissions to hospice occur because both patients and physicians believe that hospice care is only appropriate during the last few days of life. In fact patients in the US can be enrolled in hospice for at least the last 6 months of life and entering hospice care earlier rather than later in the course of illness has many advantages. Here are some of the benefits of early hospice admission. Better pain and symptom control When the hospice staff has the opportunity to care for a patient over the course of several months they have time to provide individualized management of pain and other symptoms. Because the staff gets to know the patient's particular needs quite well, medications can be titrated and adjusted over time so that the patient experiences as much relief and comfort as possible. Access to helpful medical supplies and equipment Hospice care includes the provision of necessary supplies and equipment, such as a hospital bed, commode or wheelchair so that patients can be managed at home with greater ease. Earlier access to these items is beneficial to caregivers as they cope with the increasing needs of their loved ones. Bereavement support for patient and family Studies have shown that anticipatory grief counseling is helpful for caregivers and patients to work through emotional issues before death occurs. Earlier hospice admission allows time for the staff to offer this type of bereavement support, which can lessen the overall grief experienced by family members. Improved quality of life Because hospice care focuses on the wellbeing of the whole patient'physical, mental, emotional, and spiritual'earlier admission to hospice means that the patient can experience more quality time with loved ones. There is also a greater opportunity to contemplate what matters most in life since the patient is kept comfortable and experiences less stress and anxiety during the final months of life. Fewer hospital and ICU admissions It goes without saying that patients who get admitted to hospice earlier in the course of illness receive care at home and are much less likely to be admitted to a hospital or ICU in a state of crisis. They are also more likely to die at home surrounded by loved ones, which is where nearly everyone says that they want to be when they take their last breaths. More days of life Contrary to the popular perception that being admitted to hospice will lead to earlier death, studies have shown that hospice patients live longer than those with a similar diagnosis who do not receive hospice care. In fact hospice patients who are admitted early enough in the course of illness have been shown to live 29 days longer than others and as already shown, those extra days are spent in comfort with greater quality of life. So the evidence is quite strong that earlier enrollment in hospice is far more beneficial to patients and their loved ones than a last minute admission in a state of crisis. But early hospice care is only possible when patients, caregivers and providers are aware of the benefits and make it a priority. It's important to plan ahead for these difficult decisions, document preferences in writing, and have conversations about the best care we can imagine for the end of life. https://homehealthcarenews.com/2017/09/yale-hospice-patients-are-admitted-too-late/ Vig, Elizabeth K et al. 'Why don't patients enroll in hospice? Can we do anything about it?.'"Journal of general internal medicine"vol. 25,10 (2010): 1009-19. doi:10.1007/s11606-010-1423-9 https://www.pbs.org/newshour/nation/hospice-care-might-benefit-loved-one-sooner-think Tabler, Jennifer et al. 'Missed Opportunity: Hospice Care and the Family.'"Journal of social work in end-of-life & palliative care"vol. 11,3-4 (2015): 224-43. doi:10.1080/15524256.2015.1108896 https://jamanetwork.com/journals/jama/fullarticle/2482326 https://www.nhpco.org/sites/default/files/public/JPSM/march-2007-article.pdf Mon, 20 May 2019 07:40:06 GMT http://thedenverhospice.org/blog/14856/Why-Hospice-Care-Should-Begin-Sooner-Rather-than-Later http://thedenverhospice.org/blog/14855/Compassionate-Care-for-Seniors blog Baby boomers changed the way Americans think about work and leisure, and they're changing the way seniors look at the end of life. As the need for help with daily routines and health needs increase, two major kinds of aid are becoming more common. The two concepts, hospice and assisted living, are similar but they are also distinctly different. What is the difference between hospice and assisted living? The first hospice practice originated around 1950 in London, England. Designed for terminally ill patients, its goals are to support the family, keep the patient comfortable, and relieve pain and other symptoms, not to cure an illness. Hospice care involves a team of professionals and volunteers who work to meet physical, emotional and spiritual needs. It can take place in the home, hospital, nursing home or in a special hospice facility. Medicare, Medicaid or private health insurance may pay for some or all of the cost. Assisted living provides many of the same services as hospice, but it focuses on people who can still do many things for themselves but are gradually becoming less able to follow their daily routines. Its services include help with needs like personal hygiene, meals, transportation and social life. Assisted living takes place at home or in facilities, as hospice does, but it usually costs less because patients need less help. Medicare, life insurance plans and state funds pay part of the cost, but assisted living usually requires a higher out-of-pocket contribution than hospice does. Cancer and the Senior Citizen Researchers say 1 in 4 new diagnoses are in people between the ages of 65 and 74. The median age, for example, of a prostate diagnosis in a senior is 66 years while that of lung tumor is 70 years. With a life expectancy of around 80 years, seniors with terminal illnesses may need extended care. Military veterans may be eligible for special help with the cost of assisted living, but they are also more likely to be diagnosed with various kinds of cancer. The five most common are melanoma and tumors of the lungs, prostate, urinary tract and colon, but veterans are at especially high risk for mesothelioma, a rare malignancy caused by asbestos exposure. Although the use of hospice is becoming more common, many seniors still receive aggressive health care at the end of their lives. Families and professionals can make the transition more peaceful by talking openly about the patient's wishes. The philosophy of hospice is for every patient to die with comfort and dignity. Fri, 03 May 2019 06:20:17 GMT http://thedenverhospice.org/blog/14855/Compassionate-Care-for-Seniors http://thedenverhospice.org/blog/14854/Acceptance blog 'I'm glad their suffering is over. They are at peace'. These two emojis communicate different expressions. The first emoji seems to be happy ' accepting of life. But the emoji that's bandaged has a very different expression: hurt, fear, and trepidation. I chose to display both emojis because the first one is what we desire for those entering the Acceptance Stage of grief. Unfortunately, families tell me they feel more like the second emoji, the bandaged one, when they get to this Stage of Acceptance. In this reflection we will look at this 5th and final Stage of Grief; the Stage of Acceptance. The five stages are 1) Shock or Denial, 2) Anger, 3) Bargaining, 4) Depression, and" 5) Acceptance. In this stage there too can be a lot of confusion as to what acceptance means. Does it mean we're finally alright? Or that we're good to go, you know, 'OK'? And does it mean we are ready to go mainstream again, get back on that proverbial horse ' back into the saddle - and resume life as usual? Without question, this stage can look quite differently depending upon one's perspective. If we are the one going through the grief we would likely be slow to chime in ' 'life is good ' let's do this!' But as an on-looker (one who is not directly involved with the loss) the perspective and expectations are bound to be different. I remember a woman at church, 25 plus years ago, who would cry every single Sunday. Yes, every Sunday during worship she would break down and sob ' sometimes quite loudly. So why was she crying? Her husband had been killed (5 years previously) in a gas tanker accident that burned 85% of his body. He died shortly after the accident at the hospital due to complications from his burns. But you see, she and her husband were both expert singers and had performed together for nearly 2 decades. So unfortunately, every time she sang or heard singing she was reminded of this terrible loss. This is a tragic story but it gets worse! For I remember when another lady seated a few rows behind the widow, quietly said to me. 'Why does she cry every single week? She should just get over it already!!!' This on-looker was in-sensed by her outward, public, and frequent expressions of grief. The on-looker desired for this widow to be put back together in a manner that didn't make others feel burdened or uncomfortable in their spirit, like the first emoji. This is not an isolated case. Many on-lookers desire to see others get to the acceptance stage (the smiling emoji) looking as good inwardly and outwardly as they were before their loss. But this just isn't realistic. And when the grief stricken person presents (as the emoji on the right) bandaged and scared many are quick to suggest that the person needs counseling, needs to see a therapist, and they are often encouraged to go see their doctor for anti-depressant medications. Accepting the fact that one's permanent reality is forever changed is difficult ' to put it mildly. It takes an arduous amount of effort to live-in and accept this new altered reality. But slowly, step by step, one learns to 'live' in a world where their loved one is missing. The Stage of Acceptance needs to be viewed more as a gentle transition like the ebb and flow of the ocean waves. The waves roll on to the beach and then back out into the deep unceasingly. Slowly, those in grief will begin to make their transition from the 'deep' back to the land of the living, wave by gentle wave. Eventually, one will begin to have more good days than bad ' but it's clearly a back and forth motion. One day happy and the next riddled with guilt ' for being happy, breaking with an old tradition, and or making a new friend. Learning to embrace our feelings while seeking to meet our new needs is what this Stage of Acceptance is all about. It is riddled with questions too: Can I trust this world? Do I have a choice? Will I continue to heal? Can I live without them? Can I make new friends? Fear, healing, and trepidation mixed with exploration, moments of joy, and new adventures characterizes this Stage of Acceptance. Although this is classically called the last stage, it is by no means an easy jog to the finish line. Acceptance takes bodacious courage and unyielding effort to live and thrive once again. Fri, 26 Apr 2019 04:30:04 GMT http://thedenverhospice.org/blog/14854/Acceptance http://thedenverhospice.org/blog/14853/Making-the-Medicare-Decision blog When you turn 65, you have a lot of choices to make. Whether you want to retire ' Where to travel when you do ' One big decision that can't wait is how you will pay for your healthcare as you age. For most of us, Medicare is the answer to that question, but we won't all need the same coverage. Here are some tips on how to distinguish one plan from another, and advice on how to plan ahead for your wellness needs. Start with a visit to your doctor If you've had the same primary care doctor for a while, and you are comfortable with their office and staff, go ahead and schedule a visit or call the office to discuss whether they accept Medicare. Some providers choose to opt out of Medicare altogether; others may only be in-network for certain Medicare Advantage plans. If you want to stick with your provider without paying out-of-pocket, it's essential to note (if and) which form of Medicare they are willing to take. Consider your overall cost The total cost of your healthcare coverage does not stop with your monthly premiums. You will need to get familiar with deductibles, co-pays, benefit periods, coinsurance, and a host of other terms to help you decipher your actual Medicare expenses. It can get confusing, but there are resources that will help you speak Medicare's language. Medicare.org's list of common Medicare terms is a great place to start, and can help you begin to understand how coverage rules work and how medical services are charged. Look at supplemental coverage options According to Medicare.gov, a Medigap policy may be available to those who subscribe to Original Medicare. This is kind of like a safety net that allows you to pay a monthly rate but then covers most of your extra expenses, like your deductibles and coinsurance. However, the site goes on to explain, 'It may be more cost effective for you to join a Medicare Advantage Plan because your cost sharing is lower (or included).' Further, since many Advantage plans offer extra benefits, like dental and vision coverage, which you would have to pay for separately under Original Medicare, the right Advantage plan can eliminate the need for piecing together insurance products. Know your health history Anytime you're trying to plan for the future, it pays to know your past. Before making any major insurance decisions, take a quick look at your family tree. Many diseases that cause disabilities are hereditary. Parkinson's disease and dementia are two conditions that can be handed down from your parents and grandparents, although your personal lifestyle choices play a bigger role in your late-life health. Talk to your doctor honestly about your unhealthy habits since, according to the University of Pittsburgh Medical Center, the actions you take throughout your life may dictate how much time you spend being disabled as a senior. If you smoke, drink, eat unhealthy foods, and engage in otherwise unhealthy habits, it's likely you will need more intense medical care than your healthy-living contemporaries. The takeaway: Original Medicare offers hospital and doctor coverage (through Parts A and B) but may be a more expensive option when compared to Medicare Advantage (Part C, which is available through private insurance companies). Medigap is no guarantee that you're getting the best deal when it comes to your health coverage. Make an informed decision by doing your research. Talk to your doctor, look at your family and personal health history, and then do the math. Your health is your most valuable asset, but also one of the most expensive things to maintain as you get older. Choose a Medicare plan that fits your lifestyle and budget and remember, your healthy choices can save you money. Fri, 19 Apr 2019 09:24:03 GMT http://thedenverhospice.org/blog/14853/Making-the-Medicare-Decision http://thedenverhospice.org/blog/14852/It-s-Not-Just-Stuff blog Some of the most intimate aspects of a person's identity are reflected in their personal belongings. A baseball cap, a favorite fragrance, a collection of toy dinosaurs can instantly evoke the image of someone we love. These objects seem to be infused with that person's essence and become an extension of their being. When a loved one dies, handling their belongings can be overwhelming. Each person has a unique way of resolving this challenge (which can get complicated when several different family members are involved). Here are a few tips to help sort things out: Respect your own timing. You may feel ready to clear out the closets right away, giving favorite belongings to family and friends or donating to charity. On the other hand, you may decide not to touch your loved one's belongings for months or years as you slowly adjust to the reality of your loss. Or you may choose to sort through some things now and leave or store some for later. Listen to other's suggestions, but do what feels right for you. Pick your treasures. There will be some things that you don't want to give away, not now, not ever. These will be the transitional objects that keep you connected to your loved one for as long as you need ' a watch, a quilt, a love letter, a favorite stuffed animal, a coffee mug. Trust your gut. Keep what you really want to keep no matter how odd it may seem. Preserve your memories. Gather together a collection of objects and photographs that make you feel close to your loved one and visit it when you want to remember them. Intentionally creating a memory space can make letting go of the larger volume of 'stuff' easier. This suggestion can also be helpful if you had to let go of belongings before you were ready. Let go of what you don't need. Those baskets of plastic flowers and the beer mugs from around the world can go. Just because your loved one couldn't part with them doesn't mean you can't if you want to. Sometimes letting go can be liberating. Often sorting through a loved one's belongings becomes a form of grief work in itself. Moving a pair of shoes from the hall closet to the basement involves working through something. Let yourself feel the feelings that go along with the task. If you are not sure whether or not to let go of something, ask yourself how keeping it is helping you. Is it a useful tool, still serving an important purpose in your grief process or is it a means to avoid taking risks and letting in new energy? Let your own answers guide you. Mon, 08 Apr 2019 04:58:34 GMT http://thedenverhospice.org/blog/14852/It-s-Not-Just-Stuff http://thedenverhospice.org/blog/14851/Throwing-A-Birthday-Party-For-Your-Senior-In-Hospice blog Roughly 1.6 million people receive hospice care each year in the US, Johns Hopkins Medicine reveals. And all those patients have one thing in common: birthdays! If you have an elderly relative in hospice with a birthday coming up, rest assured it can be joyous and special occasion. Many care facilities throw a party every month to celebrate resident birthdays, but you can also choose to throw an individual party for your loved one. Here are some points to keep in mind when planning a party for your elderly relative in care. Guest list When it comes to choosing the guest list, consider what your relative would be most comfortable with. Perhaps they'd prefer a quiet affair with close family. Alternatively, you can invite a bigger number of friends and family, as well as any friends in the hospice. If your senior isn't comfortable staying up in the evenings, schedule the party for morning or afternoon. Also consider travel arrangements older guests may have to make; they may feel safer traveling to and from the party in daytime hours. Choose a theme A theme ties the whole party together from the food to the music. When choosing the theme consider your relative's hobbies or interests. If they're a football fan, use football as a theme. You can then choose decorations ' centerpieces, streamers, tablecloths and cupcakes ' in the same style. If they've spent time overseas in France, for example, design a French-themed party complete with croissants, decorative Eiffel towers, and mini French flags. Or, you can keep it simple and decorate the room with family photos ' your senior will love looking back on the happy memories. The menu Every birthday party needs a cake. If you're up for it, you can bake a cake as a meaningful way to honor your favorite senior. Alternatively, order a cake from a caterer with a personalized 'happy birthday' message. As for other food, a buffet is easy to organize, but keep it simple to avoid overwhelming with options. Some options include Caprese salad, spinach and artichoke stuffed mushrooms, and savory pancake bites. If your party coincides with lunch or dinner, however, you may want to provide an actual meal. For example, serve roast salmon as a centerpiece along with salad and potatoes. Capture the moment Be sure to have a camera on hand to capture the event. Designate a party photographer (a family member or a helpful member of staff), so you can devote your attention to your relative without worrying about getting enough photos. Capturing special moments on film is a good idea, too. For example, film your senior opening presents, blowing out the candles on the cake, or even simply chatting with the family. These moments are special and you'll love having them to re-watch in years to come. Celebrating the birthday of an elderly relative in care is bound to be different to how it used to be. However, it's important to celebrate your senior as he or she is now and throw a lovely party they're able to enjoy. With these tips, you'll be all set to pull off a memorable event. Tue, 19 Feb 2019 07:15:19 GMT http://thedenverhospice.org/blog/14851/Throwing-A-Birthday-Party-For-Your-Senior-In-Hospice http://thedenverhospice.org/blog/14850/Her-Legacy-is-Remarkable blog What comes to your mind when you hear the word legacy? Often times we equate legacy with money or an inheritance. But it can mean so much more than that'I'm thinking more of definition number 2. leg"a"cy (l"g'"-s") pl."leg"a"cies Money"or"property"given"to"another"by"will. Something"handed"down"from"an"ancestor"or"a"predecessor"or"from"the"past:"a"legacy"of"religious"freedom. Individual"who"is"either"an"applicant"to"an"educational"institution"or"a"matriculated"student"and"is"the"child"of"analumna"or"alumnus. Not long ago, a real hero died with an incredible legacy. Upon first appearance of this patient one would not note that you were standing on holy ground while in their presence. And the family sure didn't tell you to remove your shoes because you were standing in the presence of greatness. But as the family engaged in 'life review' it became so obvious that this patient was far from ordinary. I'm not often led to tears through a 'life review' but this time I was. No, she wasn't a Pulitzer or Nobel Prize winner, a famous celebrity or an astronaut. Rather, she focused on what many would call the mundane ' caring for her husband and sons, her extended family, the foster kids, those at church, the neighbors, her fellow baking competitors, and those she met through the website for PF. For her family, foster kids included, she was just mom; who did mom things to best of her ability. She also had the gift of hospitality. So many of us think that hospitality is having a beautiful home, clean enough to be on the cover of "House Beautiful." But this isn't hospitality in its truest sense. Hospitality is how comfortable others feel in your presence." Over and over again, people shared how safe, accepted, and loved they felt in her presence. One of the foster kids, who is now a husband, father, and a huge bodybuilder, shared, 'When I met her, my life was going the wrong way. But she changed all that by how she love me, accepted me, and showed me how to live." Now I'm a Christian, as is my whole family ' and it's all because of her.' This patient was quite the baker, cook, canner, etc." Her family never ate bread off the store shelf ' never! She was internationally known for her cucumber pickles. Her family remarked, 'We always had individualized birthday cake decorations. And she gave her generous support through fund raising by always providing A+ baked goods to sell.' I could go on for pages about her accomplishments but I think you get the point. We all meet patients like this from time to time. And it's important to take a moment and reflect on their character, achievements, and persona." More than just being amazed ' we can be inspired. It all comes down to what matters to us. And what we are focused on giving to our family and friends when we die. Statistically speaking, few of us will be able to leave a financially rich portfolio for our loved ones. But all of us can give our loved ones gifts that - in some sense - are far more valuable that the riches of this world. I'm reminded of a song that was popular on the radio 30 years ago by Steve Green. It continues to be a powerful reminder to me to live well. The chorus went like this: o may all who come behind us find us faithful, may the fire of our devotion light their way. may the footprints that we leave, lead them to believe, and the lives we live inspire them to obey Wed, 06 Feb 2019 05:41:32 GMT http://thedenverhospice.org/blog/14850/Her-Legacy-is-Remarkable http://thedenverhospice.org/blog/14849/Preparing-For-End-Of-Life-Starts-With-A-Conversation blog The concept of all adults-from the age of 18 and up, having an end of life conversation with their family and loved ones is difficult for many. Most often, end of life conversations happen in a moment of crisis. A patient is suddenly in need of deciding who their medical decision maker is and if they wish to pursue aggressive treatment. When a patient is facing death, they often make a decision based on fear and do not have all the information needed. I faced this same scenario with my own father, who had been consistent in saying he did not want dialysis or frankly any aggressive treatments, but once in the hospital with acute kidney failure, significant shortness of breath secondary to fluid overload, he changed his mind very quickly. I realized through this frightening event, that I had failed my own father. I have been in healthcare for over 30 years, working in emergency departments, Intensive Care Units and now working in hospice for nearly 5 years and I had not had a full goals of care conversation with my own father. I had avoided it, not ready to lose my father yet after losing my mom twenty years prior. I waited until he was in crisis, going against what I had been preaching to patients for years. Most feel that this subject isn't important until someone is elderly or diagnosed with a terminal disease, but what if a 25 year old is in a major accident and can no longer make any decisions. The family is left to decide what their son or brother would have wanted at the end of their life, without knowing what their true wishes are. During my emergency medicine career as a nurse, I have seen this exact scenario. Health decisions for children are automatically deferred to the parents, but anyone over the age of 18 does have the opportunity to set their own stage for the end of their life. There are several easy steps to ensure your wishes are known, documented and ultimately followed through with. The first step is to decide what you want at the end of life and talk about it. Speak with your doctor about what resuscitation looks like if your heart or breathing stops. Talk with your family and let them know your wishes, work through their issues with your wishes. Don't be surprised if their plan for your ending doesn't match your own plan. Then identify who is your Medical Durable Power of Attorney (MDPOA) and more importantly, make sure it is someone who knows your wishes and will follow through with them. The MDPOA needs to be able to put aside their own agenda and emotions in order to carry out the wishes of the person being represented. The next step is to document your wishes. Living wills can be all encompassing- identifying your MDPOA, your wishes and the parameters around the aggressiveness of care wanted at the end of life. There are various documents and guides that can assist as well, such as '5 Wishes' or the 'Making Health Care Decisions' book.'� Make sure you document if resuscitation is desired or not on a state CPR directive or MOST form.'� Once you have done all these things, make multiple copies of your documents, place one set on your refrigerator (Emergency Medical Services are trained to look their first if responding to an emergency in your home), keep a copy or two on your person and make sure one or more of your family or friends has a copy, most importantly your MDPOA. A highly emotional subject can be normalized through conversation. You may need to allow time for your family to absorb your conversation and then revisit it at a later date. This requires much thought and planning while sorting through a myriad of emotions. That is why trying to tackle an end of life conversation in a time of crisis, when the intensity of the moment is at its peak, is extremely difficult. All will be better if it is a well-planned and thought out journey. I encourage you to take control of the end of your life while you are in the position to do so. Start it with a conversation. Dean Fernandez, Registered Nurse Mon, 14 Jan 2019 05:29:52 GMT http://thedenverhospice.org/blog/14849/Preparing-For-End-Of-Life-Starts-With-A-Conversation http://thedenverhospice.org/blog/14848/New-Year-s-Resolutions---Again- blog It feels to me like I was just making resolutions a few months ago. Has it really been 12 months? Yes, unbelievably it has. Another year has passed. The older I get the faster time trickles down through the hour-glass. Months now feel like weeks to me. The speed of time appears to be accelerating. Or maybe I'm just moving slower? How many of us decide to make changes in our lives at the beginning of the New Year? It is true the athletic clubs and gyms are crowded during the first few months of the year, but statistics show that 67% of gym memberships are not used regularly throughout the year. Every January new diets are started. Self-promises are made to eat better, sleep more and drink less, and to just plain old 'be better'. But this year I'm going to try something different. And I invite you to join me in this endeavor. Instead of self- improvement I'm going to focus on improving my relationship with others. Why? Because I am constantly hearing this from our patients and families. No patient on his death bed has ever said to me, 'Chaplain Brian, I have a confession to make - I wish I'd gone to the gym more.' But they do talk about wishing they had better relationships with their loved ones. Well this is one thing I don't want to regret. Why? Because people are our legacy. Our true and most enduring legacy is how we got along with people, mentored people, and helped and invested in people. So this year I'm going to work on my relationships with those I love and know. And I invite you to do the same ' Build your legacy with your family and friends. So just how do I plan to do this you may ask? I'm going to work on listening better to others as they speak (verbally and non-verbally). I'm going to intentionally engage with them in their loves and hobbies. I'm going to spend less time watching Netflix and YouTube videos about pets, so I have more time with my family. I'm going to actively pray for these loved ones asking God to help me to be a better husband, father, and friend to them. And I'm going to humble myself and apologize to them when I mess up (knowingly and unknowingly). I know that in 12 months-time I won't be on the December covers of the Mr. Universe or Weight Watchers' Magazines. And that's okay. But hopefully, by years end, I'll have stronger relationships with my family and friends. And to me ' and hopefully to them, that will feel very good, fulfilling, and rewarding. And this is a legacy (RESOLUTION) worth striving for ' year after year! Tue, 08 Jan 2019 07:05:59 GMT http://thedenverhospice.org/blog/14848/New-Year-s-Resolutions---Again- http://thedenverhospice.org/blog/14847/Dealing-with-Nightmares-and-Things-that-Go--Bump-- blog When a loved one has died, it is common for children in the family to have more nightmares, and feel more fear of scary things that go 'bump!' in the night. Here are some ideas for helping your child feel more soothed and less scared, particularly at nighttime: 'Change the story' A frightening nightmare has left your child upset and afraid. Talk with them about what happened in the nightmare, and together change the ending of the dream. After your child tells the story of what happened, remind them that since this is their dream, in their imagination, they can change the ending anyway they want! Perhaps the monster that chased them and gobbled them up was actually running to the grocery store to pick up grapes'they were late for the monster banquet. And anyway, monsters are all vegetarians, didn't you know? You might make the ending silly, so the tears change into laughter. Make 'Monster Spray' Create a mixture in a spray bottle intended to be 'monster repellant' or 'nightmare repellant' for the child to spray at times that are causing fear. This mixture can contain anything: water, beads, flowers, essential oils'any objects/liquids intended to represent protection. Create the mixture together and have the child spray the mixture as-needed. The idea behind these activities is to help your child feel empowered rather than out of control in the world. Working together on projects like these also shows your child that you are there to help when they feel afraid. Thu, 20 Sep 2018 05:58:41 GMT http://thedenverhospice.org/blog/14847/Dealing-with-Nightmares-and-Things-that-Go--Bump-- http://thedenverhospice.org/blog/14846/What-to-Expect-from-a-Visit-with-the-Hospice-Chaplain blog When I was caring for my mother during the last days of her life we received a call from the hospice chaplain who wanted to schedule a visit. But Mom refused, saying she didn't need a chaplain because she had her own pastor and didn't want a stranger to provide spiritual care. At the time I was busy with caregiving duties and felt relieved that I wouldn't have to accommodate another visitor, so I agreed with Mom's decision and turned down the chaplain's offer. In retrospect I now recognize that spending a few moments with the chaplain might have been very beneficial to me as well as to my mother. Her pastor didn't visit us at all during those final days because he was too busy with his work. A supportive listener who understood the overwhelming time experienced by a caregiver could have brought some relief to me even if Mom didn't want to talk with her. The chaplain is an essential member of the hospice team whose visit is one of the benefits offered by all Medicare-certified hospices, though it is always optional. But surveys have shown that up to one third of hospice patients refuse a chaplain visit for various reasons. Some, like my mother, feel that their spiritual needs are already being met, while others see no need for spiritual care or have had a negative experience with religion in the past. But underlying these reasons for refusing a chaplain visit may be a basic misunderstanding of the work of chaplains, who are trained to serve everyone regardless of their beliefs or practices. Here are some of the benefits of a chaplain visit for hospice and palliative patients: Chaplains are trained to listen One of the greatest needs for patients and families who are facing the end of life is for someone who can listen without judgment to their concerns, fears and regrets. Chaplains understand the need for a listener who does not necessarily offer advice or solutions, but who simply holds space for every emotion and challenge that arises. Chaplains bring a calm presence to the room Chaplains are trained to remain calm in the midst of crisis and chaos and to focus on what is most important in the moment. By listening and asking the right questions the chaplain can help families heal their conflicts and find peace with one another. According to surveys, patients and their loved ones who receive chaplain visits experience less stress during the end-of-life process. Chaplains can take things slowly Some visits with other members of the hospice team might seem overwhelming with many forms to fill out and questions to answer in a short amount of time, but the chaplain is able to slow down to allow deeper conversations to take place with both patient and family members. In addition the chaplain may spend time in silence with the patient when there are no more words to say, simply being present and bringing calm compassion to the situation. Chaplains don't preach or proselytize As part of their training chaplains learn to relate to all individuals without bringing their own religious or spiritual beliefs into the relationship. Chaplains can work with patients of any religion or those with no religion because they don't focus on dogma or specific teachings. The chaplain helps each patient find her or his own personal meaning in life and death. Chaplains support family members too Many times the chaplain serves family members in addition to patients by offering them a listening ear and a shoulder to lean on. As mentioned before, this support would have been helpful to me when I was a caregiver for my mother to remind me to focus on what really matters and not get lost in all the details of caring for another person. Chaplains provide balance to the care team In addition to the assistance the chaplain offers to the patient and family members the rest of the hospice team benefits as well when the chaplain is included in patient care. The chaplain brings a unique perspective to the team by reminding everyone of the need to find meaning in both life and death. True whole-person medical care at the end of life takes into account all needs of each patient'physical, mental, emotional, and spiritual'and the chaplain is an integral component of that care. In my own work as a hospice physician I often relied on the insights and observations of our chaplain to help guide care decision for patients. The importance of the chaplain visit was underscored for me when I had the chance to view the end of life through the eyes of a caregiver. So I highly recommend saying 'Yes' to a visit from the chaplain even if you are not religious or spiritual. Thu, 23 Aug 2018 05:15:09 GMT http://thedenverhospice.org/blog/14846/What-to-Expect-from-a-Visit-with-the-Hospice-Chaplain http://thedenverhospice.org/blog/14845/Reiki-for-Patients-of-The-Denver-Hospice blog Guest Blog:"Gail Nickels, SW Denver Reiki and volunteer at The Denver Hospice Did you know that we teach both Reiki I and Reiki II for The Denver Hospice? I have been a Reiki Master/Teacher for 14 years and received my first degree 17 years ago. For six years, I volunteered with Lifespark Cancer Resources providing Reiki treatments to cancer patients. Through this experience, I truly learned a lot, especially the value of Reiki treatments for the sick and dying. Reiki is a gentle, noninvasive therapy. It is a hands-on (not massage) method that promotes comfort, peace and healing. The client stays fully clothed during a treatment. It really works well with anxiety and this is part of the reason that it works so well with Hospice. What does it take to be a good Reiki practitioner? Simply put, empathy and compassion. These are qualities that I see in every Hospice volunteer that I meet, so you qualify. We teach Reiki for The Denver Hospice throughout the year. The classes meet 2 days during the same week...usually Tuesday and Thursday from 10:00 until 3:00. There is class time and practice time. We also offer extra practice time on the 3rd Saturday of each month. We meet at the Inpatient Care Center in Lowry from 11:00-1:00 providing 20 minute Reiki sessions to staff, families and each other. We are working on offering a Reiki I class over 2 Saturdays in October for those who can't do a weekday session. One must hold their first degree certificate for 3 months before taking Level II. Certificates are awarded at the end of each course. We have had some amazing results doing Reiki with The Denver Hospice. So, jump on board and get your Reiki certification. You can contact Kim White, volunteer services manager for more information. I look forward to sharing some Reiki stories in future blog posts. Wed, 08 Aug 2018 06:29:49 GMT http://thedenverhospice.org/blog/14845/Reiki-for-Patients-of-The-Denver-Hospice http://thedenverhospice.org/blog/14844/Why-I-Volunteer-For-Hospice blog Guest Blog:"Matt Harrison, Volunteer While volunteering for The Denver Hospice, I was assigned a gentleman at a facility a couple years ago. He was a very successful businessman but he didn't have any friends to visit him in his last days. He was very soft spoken and it was difficult at times to understand his words. I have always been a huge proponent of touch and I have received Reiki and Comfort Touch training. When visiting him, I would get into the habit of holding his hands and using Comfort Touch to relax his arms and hands. He always appreciated it and it relaxed him very quickly. He was dealing with a lot of different emotions inside and was a very gruff individual. The touch seemed to change him drastically, at least when I was visiting. I recall one visit where his words shook me to the core, "I could die right now." I assume that he was comforted and relaxed enough, to feel ready to go on to the next life. That was one of the most amazing things any patient has ever said to me! I get asked why I volunteer for hospice, "Why and how do you do it?" I think most volunteers in hospice will say unequivocally'" to provide comfort. If the only thing we do for a patient is provide brief moments, minutes, hours of comfort or peacefulness, then we have done our work well. Whether it be touch, reading, playing a harp, playing music, bringing in a dog, or singing all give the patient a few brief respites of peace in what can be a very emotional, painful time in the end of their life. I explain this to those who ask but I know for most they don't understand how I do it or really why I do it. The human condition has such a huge range of emotional responses to internal and external forces and stimuli. If we as hospice volunteers can calm some of those forces, if even for just brief moments, we have done our part. Mon, 30 Jul 2018 07:23:23 GMT http://thedenverhospice.org/blog/14844/Why-I-Volunteer-For-Hospice http://thedenverhospice.org/blog/14843/In-My-Eleventh-Hour---I-Wish-I-d-Had-More-Courage- blog Guest Blog: The Courage Expert Sandra Ford Walston Working as a hospice volunteer for seven years, I've witnessed a variety of outcomes during a patient's final moments, commonly referred to as the 'eleventh hour.' During this time, people process their final defining moment: dying. This is the moment that requires the most courage'the surrender and the acceptance of one's life. With each of my volunteer experiences, I was challenged to reflect on my own personal journey'deliberating over past mistakes, contemplating misgivings, and examining whether I was living in my true self today. I know that courage lives in my true self and in coming to terms with my eventual demise. I began to ask myself, how much heartfelt courage will I be able to summon to peacefully embrace my own eleventh hour? Embracing Courage The word courage comes from the French word corage, meaning 'heart and spirit.' Embracing this definition, courage is really about acting from our heart and spirit, from the center of our being. Tapping into our courage enables us to stand in our true Selves. In this way we design not only a good life, but also a good death. During my years as an eleventh hour hospice volunteer, I observed that patients often had not summoned the courage to do something they really wanted to do in life, or they sadly didn't make time to just 'be' instead of being in a constant state of doing. These observations correlated with my over twenty years of research on recognizing and interpreting courageous behaviors. Several reoccurring tenets surfaced that confirmed 'I wish I'd had more courage'' Three tenets are featured below: 1. I wish I'd had the courage to realize how important it was to stay in touch with loved ones. Most of us do not make conscious choices about how we are going to spend our lives. Rushing through life, we rarely detect that complacency filled with excuses and justifications seeped into our spirits and drain our precious reservoir of courage. Once our time to die has come, the opportunity to live more fully has closed'it's too late to change the story line. 2. I wish I'd had the courage to live my life expressing more of my true Self, not the life where I sometimes sold my soul to accommodate others. Before people reach the eleventh hour, the patient tends to reflect on their journey and often express remorse to loved ones such as 'I wish I'd spent more time with my kids, 'I wish I'd not been so afraid to travel,' 'I wish I'd finished college' or 'Sorry I never told you'' We must ask ourselves, am I living in my true self? When my time comes to pass will I be filled with misgivings or happiness? Recognizing misgivings, the task then is to cultivate courage and trust that going for it is better than dying without it. 3. I wish I'd had the courage to dispel my fears and listen more closely to the promptings of my heart and spirit. Underlying all fears is the primitive and intuitive fear of death itself. Learning to stay courage-centered in the present may not banish fear or the self-blame it spawns, but it will at least begin to diminish the tendencies that keep us stuck in fear. Fear blocks and paralyzes the heart and ultimately, fear blocks courage. When human beings claim their courage, they begin to experience the truth that heart and spirit transcend fear. This mere recognition dissolves fear, allowing love to fill our hearts. This is the experience of 'dying to self.' Wed, 25 Jul 2018 05:44:11 GMT http://thedenverhospice.org/blog/14843/In-My-Eleventh-Hour---I-Wish-I-d-Had-More-Courage- http://thedenverhospice.org/blog/14842/When-You-Disagree-With-a-Loved-One-About-End-of-Life-Choices blog There has been a push in recent years for adults 18 and over to create an advance directive to tell their loved ones what type of care they would like to receive at the end of life. This advance planning is especially important for those who want to avoid unwanted and costly care when they reach their final days. The conversation about end-of-life wishes is meant to inform friends and family so that they can make sure the patient receives the care they want. But what happens if you and your loved ones don't share the same feelings and preferences for the last days of life? What if you have been asked to serve as a healthcare proxy for someone in your family but you find out that you don't agree with that person's choices? As an example, Theresa had consented to serve as a proxy for her elderly aunt who had never married and had no children. But when she received a copy of her aunt's advance directive Theresa was surprised to see that she indicated she wanted to be resuscitated if her heart stopped beating. Theresa didn't feel that she could support that decision because of her aunt's frailty and underlying health issues. This can be a tricky situation as it was for Theresa, because we want to help our loved ones as much as possible when they reach the end of their lives, but we also have our own strongly-held beliefs and opinions. Here are some steps to take to help you negotiate this challenging situation: Have a face-to-face conversation In Theresa's case she had received a copy of her aunt's paperwork but had not talked about her wishes with her. It's important to understand the deeper reasoning and emotions behind your loved one's choices so take time to sit together and discuss these issues thoroughly. Invite other family members to be present as well so that you can all share the same information. Utilize discussion tools To facilitate your conversation you might want to bring along copies of the Starter Kit from The Conversation Project. This booklet asks pertinent questions about end-of-life issues and allows you to express your answers on a scale from 1 to 10. The nuances and complexities of choices become more apparent when the possible responses are more than just yes or no. The Go Wish Game is another excellent tool for guiding conversations about these challenging issues. As you each discuss your own feelings about the questions in the game or starter kit you will begin to see where you share common ground and where you differ in your understanding. Get more information During your conversation you may discover that you and/or your loved one are lacking some of the factual information needed to make the best possible choices. In Theresa's case her aunt didn't really understand what resuscitation entails and based her decision on something she had once seen on television. You might arrange to watch a film together like Being Mortal on PBS, take a class in your community, or engage in an online presentation about advance care planning so that you can base your discussion on a shared fund of knowledge. Express your concerns Once you have a full understanding of your loved one's preferences and the reasons behind them take time to explain your own concerns. Be honest if you still cannot support their choices and explore together the possibility that another person might be a better fit for healthcare proxy. Revisit the discussion at a later date Don't try to reach consensus in a single conversation. Agree to meet again after taking time to process the ideas that were discussed. Over time you or your loved one may begin to see things differently and might find it easier to compromise than seemed to be true initially. Know what love means to you Throughout life there are many times when we disagree with a loved one, yet we manage to show love and support for them anyway. Examine whether or not you would ultimately be able to advocate for your loved one's wishes even if you don't share those wishes. Could you temporarily set aside your personal preferences in order to represent someone you love? The answer to this question might make all the difference in the outcome of your discussion. Consider carefully what it means to love another person and how best to show that love. This is one of the most important issues that arises at the end of life'is it more loving to hold on to every moment of life or to let go peacefully when the time comes? Ultimately each of us will say goodbye to those we love and hopefully we can find ways to offer our caring and support even when we don't agree. The best hope for a peaceful farewell is to begin these very important conversations now and continue them over time. Wed, 18 Jul 2018 05:16:40 GMT http://thedenverhospice.org/blog/14842/When-You-Disagree-With-a-Loved-One-About-End-of-Life-Choices http://thedenverhospice.org/blog/14841/My-Personal-Evolution-In-The-End-Of-Life-Doula-Movement blog Guest Blog:"Tarron Estes, Founder of the Conscious Dying Institute When I look back on how I came to teach 'Sacred Passage: End of Life Doula' education,"I see a beautiful pattern of connections and relationships, events and places. All playing unique roles. All touching. All connected -"A long steady stream of connections from early childhood to now creating a beautiful life design. I can see myself as a small child with my mother going to homes or hospital rooms of people who were sick and dying. My mom was a non-medical, natural born caregiver whose healing gifts were intact, I suspect, from the moment she was born. Caring was her calling. I see my mom caring for people so tenderly, confidently and with love. Feeding sometimes. Cleaning sometimes. Sitting sometimes. Cooking. Just sitting. Wetting the mouth. Touching the forehead. Just being there. I see the small town I lived in of 1200 people. A town square. Court house. School. And churches. Lots of churches. "Our social events were simple: Marriage, birthdays, graduations, christenings, funerals. These normal life celebrations provided a close up view into the lives of our town and families. Nursing homes, funeral homes, and churches were very impactful to me. I knew at an early age that I was witnessing important sacred transitions and felt very comfortable and called to be a part of them. My own healing journey eventually took hold, and as I struggled with my own personal challenges and desire for change, the teachers and teachings and all my work experience and professional training came together. I learned how to be with and support many different kinds of intimate life situations, people, families, systems, groups, communities. I learned to give back the amazing gifts of healing that I had received. My work is based on this principle: When we experience care, love and healing, the nature of our heart is to give back what we have received according to our own gifts and talents. The Beginning of the Conscious Dying Institute In 2013 I founded the Conscious Dying Institute to give back this care, to restore the end of life caring profession to its natural place so that families and patients can receive the care they want most in all domains of life. The work of the Conscious Dying Institute renews the true purpose and calling of many people drawn to this work. They know it is connected to the spiritual awakening of self and others. This doesn't mean there is a prescription for 'spiritual awakening' or for 'what people need.""It means that as we grow and deepen in our own authentic presence and become intimate with end of life desires and wishes, we are more able to inquire, understand and offer what is most important to others. Conscious Dying Institute"is an end of life doula education and healthcare training organization that expands the innate healing presence of frontline caregivers, whether medical or non-medical, to instill the confidence to have end of life conversations while preparing them to offer multi-dimensioned healing care to patients in hospices, senior communities, and large healthcare systems across the United States and Canada. The End of Life Doula movement is a grassroots movement, just like the natural birthing movement was decades ago. It is a movement to elevate the current unsatisfying and long suffering experience of death. As we become less afraid of dying and begin to understand that all life moves through cycles or regeneration, we have the potential to leave the body, the earth, to be more complete, to be with less baggage, less pain and suffering. We learn to die in a less costly, more natural, and more sustainable way. A New Careforce We are creating a new 'Careforce' of Doulas who are available to respond to the next generation's desire for a good, healthy, natural way to die. People are really getting on-board to have death be the next wave in alternative, holistic ways of life. Isn't this wonderful!! At the very time our culture, nation, families, friends and healthcare systems need and want more comforting, holistic end of life care and less technical medical curative care, there is a massive wave of people ready to give this kind of care! At the very time the baby boomers and our parents are aging and approaching death, we are now learning to give the holistic end of life care we have experienced throughout our new aging boomer lives!! A magnificent force of amazing caregivers are showing up to 'be the ones''to remember how to do this sacred work'so we can all share the depths and beauty of who we truly are before, nearing, during, and after death. My desire for the future of this work is for us all to have more time to experience healing and caring well before we die'to have support to explore and receive the love, care and healing we most want and need. Our goal at the Conscious Dying Institute is to provide the preparation needed to befriend death; to learn to surrender and trust deeply in each moment as we become supportive and effective end of life companions. Our training programs benefit all those involved in the care of life, love, family, and healing. Please join us with the reach toward the evolution of human consciousness through our practices to restore death to its sacred place in the beauty, mystery, and celebration of life. Mon, 16 Jul 2018 04:51:35 GMT http://thedenverhospice.org/blog/14841/My-Personal-Evolution-In-The-End-Of-Life-Doula-Movement http://thedenverhospice.org/blog/14840/10-Things-You-Need-to-Know-Before-You-Sign-Up-for-Hospice blog If you have been caring for a loved one with life-limiting illness who has chosen or been advised to stop treatment for that illness you may be considering hospice care as an alternative. Hospice provides physical, emotional and spiritual support for the patient and for family members as well and can help you through this challenging time. In fact studies have shown that patients who receive hospice care at the end of life actually live longer than those who do not enroll in hospice. Hospice patients also experience greater quality of life and better symptom management than other patients with similar illnesses, particularly if hospice care begins earlier during the disease process. If you are considering hospice care for your loved one here are 10 things you need to know before you choose which hospice to work with: Not all hospices are alike Some hospices are Medicare-certified and must adhere to regulations and standards for the care they provide. Hospices that are not certified don't have to comply with the same regulations as certified hospices and may offer fewer services. Ask if the hospice you are considering is certified and find out what services are available. Most hospice patients receive care where they live Your loved one will most likely receive hospice care wherever she resides, either in a home or nursing facility. Most hospices in the U.S. do not have inpatient facilities but offer outpatient teams that travel to visit patients. Be sure to ask about the location of service provided by any hospice you are considering. Hospices do not provide 24/7 caregiving One fact that surprises many families when they sign on with a hospice is that family members are responsible for providing round-the-clock care for their loved one. The members of the hospice staff will make weekly or more frequent visits as needed but the day-to-day care must be arranged by the family. Before you agree to work with a hospice consider whether or not your family can handle the necessary care or afford to hire professional caregivers. Medicare pays for respite stays in inpatient facilities The Medicare benefits covers short stays in a hospital or inpatient facility if needed for symptom control for the patient or as a respite for family caregivers. Ask the hospice you are considering when and where they provide respite care so that you will know in advance how to access it if necessary. Hospice care utilizes a team approach When you sign up for hospice you will most likely be visited by a number of different individuals who are part of your care team including a doctor or nurse practitioner, nurse, home health aide, chaplain, social worker, and volunteer. While it can seem overwhelming at first to meet so many new people, this team approach is one of the greatest benefits of hospice care. Each team member brings a different expertise to patient care and they work together to create a plan of care that meets the needs of the whole patient. You may see the nurse and home health aide more frequently than the other team members but all of them are working together to provide the best care for each patient. Volunteers play an important role in hospice care Medicare certified hospices are required to utilize volunteers as a source of support to patients and families. Some hospices have volunteer programs that offer help with daily tasks around the home but some do not. If you need this type of assistance be sure to ask what specific volunteer services are available from the hospice you are considering and how frequently you will be able to access them. Medications, equipment and supplies are covered under hospice care Hospices that are certified by Medicare must provide at no charge to the patient medications, equipment and supplies that are necessary for care of the terminal illness. Be sure to ask which medications will be covered under the hospice benefit and if any are not covered so that you will know in advance what you may have to pay for out-of-pocket. It is better to be admitted to hospice earlier rather than later Under Medicare regulations hospice care can begin when it has been determined that the patient has 6 months or less to live, but many patients are not admitted until the last 1-2 weeks of life. This means that they have missed out on a great deal of care that could have been provided for several months in advance. The hospice team can provide patients and their families a wealth of education and support when they are able to develop a relationship over time. Many families find they are able to heal old resentments and find renewed closeness during the weeks and months they are receiving hospice care, which improves quality of life for the patient. But this is much more difficult when the hospice team has only a few days to manage care of the patient and offer their support to the family. Tell your healthcare provider you are interested in hospice for you or loved one and ask to be referred sooner rather than later. Your hospice will provide you with bereavement support As part of the hospice benefit you will receive ongoing support for grief even after the death of your loved one. This may consist of support groups, a counseling visit, or ongoing letters you receive in the mail. Ask what type of grief support is available from the hospice you are considering and make sure it matches your needs. You are the most important member of the hospice team When you sign on with hospice you will have access to a team of providers who will work with you to care for your loved one, but you will still be providing the bulk of the care. The hospice staff will be responsive to your calls and requests but they do have limitations. Some team members care for patients over a large geographic area and may have to group their visits together based on location, so you may have to fit your needs into the scheduling needs of the staff member. Some hospices are understaffed at times because the number of hospice patients varies and is unpredictable. Ask the hospice you are considering about their census and staffing ratio to determine if they will be able to provide the level of responsiveness that you prefer.Choosing a hospice team to work with your loved may be one of the most important decisions you will make so be sure to ask questions and learn all that you can about the variety of hospices available in your community. Get recommendations from friends, your care providers, and clergy members as a starting point. If you start your search early in the process you will have time to find the right fit rather than make a rushed decision in the midst of an emergency.These decisions regarding care at the end of life are much easier when you have had conversations in advance with your loved one, other family members, and all of the healthcare providers who are involved. It's never too early to get informed about choices at the end of life and start having discussions about your wishes and those of your love ones. Wed, 11 Jul 2018 07:17:50 GMT http://thedenverhospice.org/blog/14840/10-Things-You-Need-to-Know-Before-You-Sign-Up-for-Hospice http://thedenverhospice.org/blog/14839/Tips-for-Caring-for-Veterans-at-the-End-of-Life blog The first time I visited our hospice patient Ben, a 68-year-old man with cancer, I noticed that he was reluctant to talk to me about his physical symptoms. He denied having any pain even though his tense facial muscles and elevated heart rate suggested that he was experiencing a significant amount of discomfort. Ben was polite toward me but would answer my questions with only a few words. At first I was confused about what might be going on with Ben until his sister, who had moved in with him to be his caregiver at the end of his life, told me that Ben was a veteran who had served during the Vietnam War. She told me he had seemed like a different person when he returned home from the war and had preferred to live alone for all the years since his military service. Now he had no choice but to allow his sister to stay with him because he could no longer care for himself. Like many veterans Ben had been trained to hide his physical pain and emotions when he was serving during the war. To him it would be a sign of weakness to admit that he was experiencing fear or discomfort. So he found it difficult to ask for help with his symptoms when he was nearing the end of his life. Ben also suffered from bouts of anxiety that made it challenging for him to be around other people so he had chosen to live a reclusive lifestyle. His sister told me he would occasionally lash out at her in anger over a minor incident and then would later feel terribly guilty about his behavior. These challenges Ben faced at the end of his life'unable to admit to symptoms of pain and anxiety, isolation, anger outbursts, feelings of guilt, and nightmares'are not uncommon for veterans who are receiving hospice care. The experience of illness and decline at the end of life may trigger traumatic memories and cause a resurgence of anxiety and nightmares that have been dormant for years. Many veterans find it difficult to talk about their memories or to ask for help when it is needed. Here are some tips for providing the best possible care to those who have served us in the military: Create a safe emotional space Be willing to listen without judgment or to sit quietly if the veteran prefers not to talk. Demonstrate that you are comfortable hearing stories or being in silence, whatever is needed at the time. Accept the patient's preferences for solitude or companionship. Avoid loud noises and harsh lighting Many veterans who have experienced trauma are sensitive to external stimuli. Keep the environment quiet and peaceful to increase their comfort. Watch for physical signs of pain Remember that the veteran may not ask for help with pain so be attentive and notice signs like grimacing or muscle tension. Be matter-of-fact when suggesting that most hospice patients take medications for comfort at the end of life. Avoid sudden movements or touching Respect the veteran's physical space and ask for permission before reaching out to hold a hand or touch an arm. Unannounced physical contact can trigger anxiety and panic. Don't force a conversation Ask open-ended questions but don't push for answers. Allow the veteran to choose when to share sensitive information and stories. Remember that the veteran may be harboring guilt and grief that have been suppressed and these subjects may take a long time to come to the surface. Honor the patient Treat the veteran with respect and gratitude for all the years of life that have been given to protect our freedom. Acknowledge that unless you too have served in the military you can't possibly know what the veteran has experienced. Express your own thankfulness for the veteran's act of service. Utilize a veteran volunteer If the patient is willing you might arrange for a visit from a fellow veteran who has been trained as a hospice volunteer. A person with a military background will be able to relate to the patient in ways that a civilian cannot and may bring additional comfort and relief to the patient. There are currently more than 20 million veterans in the United States and each of them will one day reach the end of life. Remember that it is a privilege to care for and serve someone who has served our nation and made sacrifices on our behalf. Teach others to provide care for our veteran patients with the utmost respect and gratitude so that we can fully support them on their final journey. Please join The Denver Hospice for Heroes & Halos: A Salute to Veterans,'�a special evening to celebrate & raise critical funding'�to support U.S. military veterans & Denver-area families'�navigating the end of life journey. June 9, 2018 at 6:00 p.m. - Wings Over the Rockies Air & Space Museum Tickets & sponsorships available Mon, 07 May 2018 08:22:19 GMT http://thedenverhospice.org/blog/14839/Tips-for-Caring-for-Veterans-at-the-End-of-Life http://thedenverhospice.org/blog/14838/Planning-to-Die--A-5-part-guide-to-understanding-the-values-of-wills---Part-5-Conclusion--Conversations---Resources blog Guest Blog: Katie Ortman, blogger A couple years after my mom died, I had a very vivid dream where she descended from the sky in a hot air balloon. I ran to the basket and she said, 'Katie, know that when you see a hot air balloon, I am with you.' I never told anyone about that dream, until there were hot air balloons lining the sky on my sister's wedding day. Then, after my metastatic diagnosis, my siblings and I started seeing them everywhere. Last June 5th"marked 20 years since my mom died. A friend text me that day and said, 'You probably already knew this, but did you know today is National Hot Air Balloon Day?' I did NOT know that! It was instituted a couple years ago. When people ask me if I'm afraid to die, I look at my new hot air balloon tattoo on my wrist and tell them no. Am I ready? Absolutely not. I still have a lot to say. But I think of all the people waiting for me on the other side, especially my mom. I think of what we'll get up to sending messages to our loved ones still on earth. And I take comfort in believing that we'll all be reunited again. I hope by now you feel more informed and you ALL have your affairs in order! I've already mentioned this, but since it's CRITICAL to the process, I'm stating it again. There's no value in establishing anything if your doctor and/or lawyer are the only ones privy to your wishes. Talk with your loved ones. Michelle Knox explains in her TED Talk, 'If you plan for your death, then your survivors will know how to experience a healthy bereavement without fear or guilt of having failed to honor your legacy.' Grab a bottle of wine and discuss the one guarantee we all know for certain with your loved ones. None of us are getting out alive! How do we prepare and make it easier on all of us? Establish your wishes and have a conversation. And, due to my innate obsession with connecting people, if you are looking for a lawyer in CO, NE, MN or England, I've included contact information for amazing lawyers in the Resources section below. Nothing would make me happier than sending some business to these amazing lawyer friends. Please tell them I sent you. To recap Everyone, regardless of age, assets, and health status benefits from having a Will in place. You do not have to pay an attorney to have an Advance Directive (or other estate planning documents). Search your state's requirements and find an online form or create your own. Share your Advance Directive with your healthcare providers. Make certain you are discussing your end of life wishes with multiple loved ones, especially those you appoint as your Medical Powers of Attorney. Remember, you can go back and make changes at any time. Resources Colorado: Julia Kneeland Lazure, Esq., KNEELAND LAW, LLC., Denver, CO, Phone: (720) 524-4918, Email: julia.lazure kneelandlaw.com,"www.kneelandlaw.com,"Facebook Nebraska: Joan Watke Stacy, PC, LLO, Sena, Polk & Stacy LLP, Omaha, NE, Phone: (402) 884-7444, Email: jws SPSattorneys.com,"www.spsattorneys.com,"Facebook Minnesota: Joe Henderson, J. F. Henderson Law, PLLC, Minneapolis, MN, Phone: (651) 699-2600, Email: jfh jfhendersonlaw.com,"www.jfhendersonlaw.com,"Facebook England: Joanne Axisa, SP Law inc. Martin Adams & McColl, Northampton, UK, Phone: +44 (0)1604 638905, Email: joanne.axisa sp-law.co.uk,"www.sp-law.co.uk,"Facebook The Conversation Project: dedicated to helping people talk about their wishes for end-of-life care Five Wishes: a helpful guide and documentation of your wishes (can be used in any part of the world) Talk about death while you're still healthy: a TED Talk by Michelle Knox. This is a great starting point for understanding the conversation of death. Michelle talks about the correlation of talking about death to becoming more comfortable with grief. Estate Map: Estate Map helps you create a comprehensive map of your assets, advisors, information, plans, and wishes. It gives your loved ones access to your most important information when you're not around to tell them where to look. It's the best gift you can leave your loved ones. Fri, 13 Apr 2018 07:58:55 GMT http://thedenverhospice.org/blog/14838/Planning-to-Die--A-5-part-guide-to-understanding-the-values-of-wills---Part-5-Conclusion--Conversations---Resources http://thedenverhospice.org/blog/14837/Planning-to-Die--A-5-part-guide-to-understanding-the-values-of-wills---Part-4-Beneficiaries---Belongings blog Guest Blog: Katie Ortman, blogger Two topics often overlooked in estate planning are beneficiaries and belongings. Beneficiary designations are separate contracts and are not subject to the terms of your Will. For example, if you signed up for your company's 401(k) plan ten years ago when you were single, and you're now married with children and you pass away unexpectedly, is your best friend or sibling getting that money? Or your family? When you married, did you update your beneficiary designation form? Or, if you were married and no longer are, have you changed your beneficiary to be someone you'd actually like to have inherit your money vs. your ex-spouse? This applies to all accounts with beneficiaries and life insurance policies. Not having those correctly assigned can cause huge, negative unintended consequences. Belongings are another important thing to consider. My cousin Joni said, 'Most people think the greatest thing to leave their family is even a modest legacy of money.' She went on to explain, 'When considering the topic more deeply, you'll find that most people want their legacy to be a healthy relationship among their children.' Having these conversations in advance, while difficult, can help address any conflict that may happen after you're gone. It's certainly not pleasant to deal with now, but if you don't, Joni has seen first-hand, 'That conflict can mushroom upon your death and sometimes can permanently sever familial and sibling relationships.' Who will get your watch, your wedding band, your 1969 Maserati Ghibli 4.7, the painting above the mantel, Grandma's candy dish, your sewing supplies, your dog? The list goes on. If two siblings have their heart set on one item and no one can agree to who should get it, rifts can form. Do you want the fight over who gets that painting above the mantel be the reason your children stop speaking to one another? Michelle Knox suggests 'Death Over Dinner' in her TED Talk,"Talk about death while you're still healthy. In her talk, she suggests, 'Life would be a lot easier to live if we talked about death now while we're healthy. For most of us, we wait until we are too emotional, too ill, or too physically exhausted, and then it's too late. Isn't it time we started taking ownership of our finale on earth?' Have the adult kids over for some pizza and start taking dibs on belongings. Prepare a powerpoint presentation on what your end of life wishes are. Okay, it might not need to be that formal, but START TALKING. Do you want to die at home? Do you want to donate your organs and/or tissue? Do you want to be buried, cremated or have your body donated to science? Do you want your ashes spread over the Cliffs of Moher by your nephews and niece (hypothetically speaking)? Make sure someone, other than you, knows what you want, because ' spoiler alert ' you won't be here to tell them. On Friday, I will conclude with some stellar resources and high kicks for the biggest takeaway of all. Thu, 12 Apr 2018 08:33:11 GMT http://thedenverhospice.org/blog/14837/Planning-to-Die--A-5-part-guide-to-understanding-the-values-of-wills---Part-4-Beneficiaries---Belongings http://thedenverhospice.org/blog/14836/Planning-to-Die--A-5-part-guide-to-understanding-the-values-of-wills---Part-3-The-Legal-Financial-Perspective blog Guest Blog: Katie Ortman, blogger My lawyer/friend Julia recommends that people think about estate planning holistically and consider ensuring that they have a Will, Living Will, and Powers of Attorney. Most of her clients end up including all of them when going through the process, but if someone simply wants one of the documents I outlined in"Part I, she will happily work with them, too. She also thinks it's important for everyone, regardless of age, assets and health status to do a Will. She often meets with couples with young kids who are going to leave them for the first time with relatives. That's one of the life stages when the hypothetical 'if something were to happen to both of us' conversation happens. Her clients' intent in creating a Will is to feel like their family is taken care of and their wishes are going to be observed. Where she sees conflict is when a Will is not in place and families dispute over 'what the person would have wanted.' The process of estate planning gives the client an opportunity to clearly state what he or she wants. She also sees a lot of people wanting to donate items or a certain amount of money to charitable causes. A Will gives you a chance to do that. Julia observed that when a Will is in place and someone dies, everything tends to go a lot more smoothly. She had a client whose sister was the Personal Representative in her Will. When her client passed, the sister was left to sort her affairs from another state. It would have been extremely difficult for her sister to accomplish everything without a Will in place. 'People want to be sure they are leaving a legacy. The biggest piece of mind is that they are not creating a mess for their family,' she explained. For Julia, the process takes a month to two, on average (Nick and I are the outliers!), typically over three meetings, although it can go a lot faster if clients prefer that. The first meeting, she walks her clients through a questionnaire. Then she fills out all the documents and sends back for review within a week or two. A follow up phone call takes place to review the documents, then the person or couple comes in for signing. Julia mentioned, 'In my experience, it isn't atypical in a couple to have one person who is ready to sign and the other person to be having an existential experience.' She understands this and works through this with her clients. Julia stressed that you can always go back and change things. 'What you want to have happen with your money for your kids when they are 2-years-old is a lot different than what you'd want done when they are 40,' she gave as an example. Speaking of your money, if you do not establish a Trust (or a Testamentary Trust in your Will), you do not get to choose who will manage your money for your children. Whatever money is inherited by your children gets paid to them automatically on their 18th"birthday (or 19th"birthday depending on the emancipation age in your state). A Will allows you to decide who manages your kids' money even if they have another parent to raise them. Without a Trust (or a Testamentary Trust in your Will), your spouse will raise the kids and manage their money. When that becomes tricky is when said spouse is an ex-spouse. A Testamentary Trust is a set of trust provisions included in your Will, but a Trust is only established if certain criteria are met (ie both parents die and the child hasn't reached the age of 25 or hasn't graduated from college or a trade school). To reiterate, from the legal, financial and medical perspective, if you are not clear with your loved ones on your wishes, you are only setting them up for confusion, guilt and heartache on top of the devastating loss they will experience with your passing. On Tuesday, I'll explore beneficiaries and belongings, two things often over-looked in the process. Wed, 11 Apr 2018 06:34:10 GMT http://thedenverhospice.org/blog/14836/Planning-to-Die--A-5-part-guide-to-understanding-the-values-of-wills---Part-3-The-Legal-Financial-Perspective http://thedenverhospice.org/blog/14835/Planning-to-Die--A-5-part-guide-to-understanding-the-values-of-wills---Part-2-The-Medical-Perspective blog Guest Blog: Katie Ortman, blogger My dad designed an Advance Directive form thirty years ago for his patients. It is one page. It states things like, 'If I have a terminal condition, in general, I would or would not want these things done' (for example, dialysis, feeding tube, cardio pulmonary resuscitation, antibiotics). In the state of Nebraska, where he resides, the page does not need to be notarized, it just requires a witness. He then asks his patients to discuss with their loved ones and send him a copy, and he saves it on file. On multiple occasions, he has had to tell families, this is what my patient indicated to do in this scenario. Usually it's the daughter from California who hasn't been around. The siblings in Omaha have been there day to day, and they understand it's time for their mom to pass. At the 11th"hour, the daughter flies in and feels guilty she hasn't been there. My dad must explain the directive and what her mother's wishes were. My dad talks about this with 100% of his patients, even the 20-year-old, healthy ones. When they are healthy, it's a lot easier to talk about. About 90% of his patients have filled out the form, and he continues to bring it up, typically at their annual physical exam, with each patient who has not filled one out. 'Most people see the wisdom of it and are anxious to do it. Where it gets hairy is when you're putting it into place. You may have a disagreement with family members, and you sit down to talk about it. You have to explain, 'It's not what you want, it's what mom wants,'' my dad explained. Furthermore, if he has a patient who is really sick and does not want to be resuscitated, he will have them write DNR (do not resuscitate) and put it on their refrigerator so first responders know that. My dad's dad had a 'do not hospitalize' order, in addition to his DNR wish. This was something he and my dad (and his siblings) had discussed at length. He was living in a nursing home at 96 years-old. When my dad received the call at 4am in 2005 that my grandpa had severe abdominal pain and rectal bleeding, he reminded the nursing home that his dad did not want to be hospitalized. They made him comfortable and let nature take its course. My grandpa died two days later. When my dad suggests the 'do not hospitalize' order to patients and their families, the inevitably say, 'You can do that?!' If you do not have these documents in place, each state has a plan for you if something happens (either incapacity or death), making your loved ones jump through legal hoops to be able to step in and help when you need it. For example, if you're in a car accident and you do not have a Medical Power of Attorney or a Durable Power of Attorney, your loved ones must file a guardianship/conservatorship to make decisions on your behalf. It is time consuming and expensive. Instead of caring for you, they are left sitting in a lawyer's office. Always a party. If you're thinking, 'This doesn't apply to me; I'm super healthy,' you are sorely mistaken. My friend and author Katie McKenna wrote a memoir called"How to Get Run Over by a Truck. She was young and healthy and on a quick morning spin the day she was pummeled by an 18-wheeler. Thank God she lived to tell her story, which I highly recommend reading. Death is the definition of inevitability. It's the one guarantee in life. What are you doing for yourself and your loved ones to prepare? Ambiguity in your end of life care only leads to confusion, guilt and heartache for your loved ones. Tue, 10 Apr 2018 04:59:17 GMT http://thedenverhospice.org/blog/14835/Planning-to-Die--A-5-part-guide-to-understanding-the-values-of-wills---Part-2-The-Medical-Perspective http://thedenverhospice.org/blog/14834/Planning-to-Die--A-5-part-Guide-to-Understanding-the-values-of-wills---Part-1-Definitions blog Guest Blog: Katie Ortman, blogger For every other 30-something year-old I know, the hypothetical scenarios of getting your affairs in order are just that. Very hypothetical. But whatever age you are, even if it is"just hypothetical, nothing makes having the conversation about death with loved ones easy. For me, it's very real. I am, after all, living with a rare form of stage 4 cancer. From my experience, having these conversations with my husband has been extremely painful. Partially because it has been over two years since my friend Julia offered to do my Will. After our first meeting, we confirmed it made sense to have Nick do his at the same time. She generously offered to do that, too. My dad is a doctor. Wills were dinner table topics growing up. When my mom was diagnosed with pancreatic cancer, there were no unknowns around her wishes for end of life care. After she passed away, my dad remarried a nurse anesthetist. The dinner table topics of blood, stool colors and consistencies, death and nasal congestion continued. This was my normal. In my 20s, my dad and stepmom had all six of us kids sign an Advance Directive and email it to them. But for Nick, as my friend Meagan put it best, 'British people just don't talk about that kind of shit.' She would know. Her husband is from Scotland. Nick has dragged his feet, and it has been one of the few points of contention in our marriage. While I'm thinking, 'It's inevitable, we are ALL GOING TO DIE, for *^&%'s sake,' he is not wanting to dwell on death. I do not fault him. And I certainly recognize my situation does not make things any easier. The more I talk about it with friends, the more I realize Nick is not alone. I've also noticed there's a lack of understanding around Wills. One friend, a fellow stage 4 cancer fighter told me, 'I don't need a Will, I don't have any assets.' She was unaware of Living Wills and Medical Powers of Attorney. In this 5-part blog series, I will address Definitions, the Medical Perspective, the Legal/Financial Perspective, Beneficiaries & Belongings, and Conversations & Resources. I wrote this piece to educate others (and myself!) on the topic of Wills and to urge everyone to get something in place. You'll find some resources available in my fifth installment, including incredible lawyers in Colorado, Nebraska, Minnesota and England. Bud Hammes, a medical ethicist at a La Crosse, WI hospital, sparked a movement in his town that led to 96 percent of people who die having an Advance Directive. The"NPR article"notes that about 30% of adults nationally have this documentation in place. Let's start with some definitions to clear the air. Will The"Will"is the document that tells everyone what you want to have happen with your personal items (think personal property, real estate, all your assets and debts). If you have kids, this is where you establish your children's guardian(s) should anything happen to you and your spouse (if you're married). This is also where you set up what you would want to have happen with your money if you died (for example, creating a Trust for your kids). Advance Directive There are two types of Advance Directives: a"Living Will"and a"Medical Power of Attorney (or Durable Power of Attorney for Healthcare). These are complimentary but slightly different."Some people have one or the other or both. Your"Living Will"tells your doctors and friends and family what you want to have happen for end of life care. For example, if you were to get into an accident and end up in a persistent vegetative state (life support), this outlines your intentions. If you don't want to have artificial means prolong the dying process, you're giving your family permission to 'pull the plug.' You can specify how long (days, weeks), if at all, you would want to stay on life support. This is also where you state preferences for resuscitation (whether or not you want CPR, for example). In the state of Colorado, you do not need a lawyer to have a Living Will. It is made legal by your signature and the signature of two witnesses. It's important to share this with your healthcare provider(s) ' if you're me, you have more than one! Your"Medical Power of Attorney (or Durable Power of Attorney for Healthcare)"is who you appoint to make healthcare decisions for you if you're no longer able to make them for yourself (for example, comatose, memory loss, brain hemorrhage). Some people select a friend or a family member in the medical profession. Some family members who tend to be emotional may find the task a huge burden. It is essential that you discuss with your appointee how you feel about end of life issues. For me, I selected both my husband and my dad. If ever a difficult decision must be made on my behalf, I do not want either of them carrying that burden alone. Durable Power of Attorney Your"Durable Power of Attorney"is your financial power of attorney. For example, if you're in a coma, this person can pay your bills for you. This extends beyond a health crisis. If you're closing on a house and out of town, this person can attend the closing on your behalf. Lucky for them! Trusts A"Trust"is created for several different scenarios, including for kids and families. Some people choose to set up a Contingent/Testamentary Trust which is only created if needed (both parents die, for example). You do not have to fund a Contingent/Testamentary Trust up front. Mon, 09 Apr 2018 07:47:26 GMT http://thedenverhospice.org/blog/14834/Planning-to-Die--A-5-part-Guide-to-Understanding-the-values-of-wills---Part-1-Definitions http://thedenverhospice.org/blog/14833/6-Steps-to-Rise-Above-Your-Fear-of-Death blog Let's face it: if you're human you have most likely experienced a fear of death at one time or another in your life ' or else you may have been in complete denial of your fear and repressing it. That's because the fear of death is normal for all of us ' we have a survival instinct that motivates us to avoid death-inducing situations. Death represents the ultimate unknown, a territory in which we have no experience and no control. So it is natural to feel fear when we think about death and also natural to avoid those thoughts whenever possible. But it turns out that this avoidance of death doesn't serve us well in the end. When we haven't thought about death's meaning or impact for ourselves or our loved ones, we can be caught unprepared and unable to cope when sudden tragedy strikes. Then we are more likely to make hasty decisions out of desperation that we may later regret. I have witnessed many families who agreed to life-prolonging measures for a loved one in an emergency situation because they hadn't previously thought about or discussed what to do in such a crisis. Then, after taking time to think through the wishes of their loved one, they had to reverse their decision and stop the heroic measures that were taking place ' all at a great emotional and financial cost. The solution to this heartbreaking situation is to spend time contemplating and preparing for death before it becomes a critical issue. But to follow through on the necessary preparations, you must first overcome your own natural fears about death and dying. Here are six approaches to working through the fear: Think about it. Spend some time each week allowing yourself to think about death in a personal way. Imagine that you are on your death bed taking your last breaths: who would you like to be with you, where would you like to be, what do you want to say to your loved ones? Write about it. Use your journal to record your experiences from the first exercise above. Then explore you fears of death ' what exactly are you afraid of? Where have those fears come from? Do you actually believe they are true? Writing about your fears in your journal will help you track how your feelings about death begin to change over time. Read about it. There are many excellent books available right now that discuss death and dying from various perspectives: medical, spiritual, historical, sociological, psychological, metaphysical, and more. Choose the approach that best fits your interests and spend some time with a good book. You'll find that reading stories about death and dying can help ease your fears and answer some of your questions, as well.You can join an online reading group for 2018 called 'A Year of Reading Dangerously' and read a book about death and dying each month by signing up here. Learn about it. There's nothing better than education to counteract fear, so take time to learn some factual information about death and dying. Try listening to the interviews with expert speakers posted each month at www.eoluniversity.com and expand your knowledge base. Talk about it. Sign up for a Death Caf" event where you can join in conversations about death and dying with other people who have an interest in the subject. Or download the Conversation Starter Kit from www.theconversationproject.org to help you talk with your friends and family about the end of life. Work with it. One of the best ways to rise above the fear of death is to become a volunteer for a hospice or palliative care organization in your community. You will receive training to work with patients and their families as a volunteer and you will discover the beauty that arises at the end-of-life. In my experience as a hospice medical director, most volunteers find that their fear of death is greatly diminished through this work. Learn how you can volunteer with Denver Hospice. No matter which approach you choose to help you rise above your fear of death, you will benefit a great deal from working through that fear. You will be able to contemplate all aspects of life, from birth through death, with less anxiety and you will experience increased peace of mind about all of life's uncertainties. In addition you will be able to prepare yourself for the later years of your own life, when unexpected situations can arise and quick decisions may be required. If you have discussed and planned ahead for that time of life, then you and your loved ones will be better off because of your actions. There's no better time to start facing your fears than right now because, as Sogyal Rinpoche reminds us in The Tibetan Book of Living and Dying, 'death is real and comes without warning.' Take comfort in knowing that you are not alone on this journey since each of us must do this same work of rising above the fear of death. Fri, 16 Mar 2018 06:19:16 GMT http://thedenverhospice.org/blog/14833/6-Steps-to-Rise-Above-Your-Fear-of-Death http://thedenverhospice.org/blog/14832/What-to-Do-When-a-Loved-One-Refuses-Hospice-Care blog When it was time for Doris, an 85-year old woman with biliary cancer, to be discharged from the hospital, her physician suggested to her and her family that she be admitted to hospice care. But Doris refused hospice care even though her family members strongly supported the doctor's advice. It's not unusual for a patient to have concerns about signing on to a hospice for care and for families to get caught up in a struggle as they try to find the best care possible for their loved one. There are many reasons a patient like Doris might say no to hospice and it's important for care providers and family members to try to understand her feelings. Here are some steps to take if you find yourself dealing with a loved one who refuses hospice care: Listen without judgment. Begin by calmly listening to whatever the patient needs to say. Don't argue or try to persuade her to change her mind'just listen to see what you can learn about her feelings. Ask why she is not comfortable with hospice. If she hasn't told you yet her reasons for saying no, ask her why. But again, don't argue with her reasoning. Careful listening will help you understand her better and get a glimpse of how she views end-of-life care. She may have misconceptions about hospice or she may have had a traumatic experience with death in the past. Provide her with a safe space to express her feelings even if you don't agree with them. Validate her emotions. Let her know that you understand why a decision to begin hospice care can be frightening and overwhelming. Don't push or rush her to choose hospice but agree that she has the right to turn it down. Gently provide reassuring facts. Once you understand where her resistance is coming from you can gradually begin to provide additional factual information about hospice. Again, don't argue'just mention some of the details about hospice and how it functions as a way of answering her fears. For example, many people fear that accepting hospice care means that death will come more quickly. In this situation you might explain that a study has shown that patients who receive hospice care actually live longer than patients with an identical diagnosis who do not receive hospice care. Arrange for her to meet someone from hospice. Invite a hospice staffer to meet her and answer questions. Connecting with a real person who represents the hospice team can go a long way toward reassuring the patient that hospice care is provided with compassion and empathy as well as expertise. During that face-to-face meeting you can bring up some of your loved one's questions to show her that you are on her side and share her concerns. Respect her wishes. Let your loved one know that she has control over her own decisions and that you will honor her choices. She needs to feel supported or her resistance to hospice might increase if family members apply too much pressure. Offer alternatives. If palliative care is available in your area see if she might agree to accept that rather than hospice, since she will be able to continue curative treatments while receiving palliative care. Some patients may also agree to be admitted briefly to a home care service for evaluation of their potential for improvement. This temporary measure could buy some time while your loved one adjusts to the idea of hospice care. Ultimately no one should be pressured into receiving hospice care if it doesn't meet her preferences. But most patients who initially refuse care from hospice end up agreeing to it eventually and feeling good about their choice. We must allow patients the freedom to choose their own course with whatever timing is best for them. Showing respect for their right to make decisions for themselves is an important step to help patients embrace their own individual end-of-life process. Mon, 05 Mar 2018 05:56:56 GMT http://thedenverhospice.org/blog/14832/What-to-Do-When-a-Loved-One-Refuses-Hospice-Care http://thedenverhospice.org/blog/14831/The-Denver-Hospice-and-FOX31-Partner-to-Support-Military-Veterans blog With a shared vision for honoring and preserving the legacies of U.S. military veterans, The Denver Hospice and FOX31 are proud to announce a new community partnership focused on sharing information and resources to better serve and support Colorado's 400,000 military veterans. As part of this collaborative effort, The Denver Hospice has been invited to join the FOX31 Serving Those Who Serve advisory committee. FOX31 has signed on as an exclusive media partner for The Denver Hospice's 2018 signature fundraising event, Heroes & Halos: A Tribute to Veterans. Taking place June 9, 2018, the event honors military veterans and their families, features military ceremonies and a keynote address by pro football great, motivational speaker and father of Peyton and Eli, Archie Manning. The evening's emcee will be FOX31's own Dan Daru. From WWII to Vietnam, Daru's family has a rich military history, including: His mother, who was a riveter during WWII Four uncles who served in Europe and the Pacific during WWII Two brothers who served in Vietnam, who both made it home alive Additional event information, including tickets and sponsorship details are available here. FOX31's 'Serving Those Who Serve' community initiative brings together organizations that support veterans, active duty military and their families to collaborate, share resources and fortify the support system available to Colorado's military community. FOX31 recognizes the vital support The Denver Hospice provides for the considerable number of U.S. military veteran patients and families in their care. Proceeds from Heroes & Halos: A Tribute to Veterans will support military veterans and Colorado families in need of support as they navigate the end of life journey. Nearly one-third of the patients at The Denver Hospice are military veterans with unique needs as they face end of life. Accordingly, The Denver Hospice: Provides specialized training for all staff and volunteers Helps veterans access all the military benefits to which they are entitled Ensures patients have received and been awarded all of their medals and accolades Offers the Veterans Helping Veterans volunteer program The Denver Hospice is proud to join the list of respected organizations on the FOX31 advisory board that also provide valuable support for military veterans and families. Mon, 26 Feb 2018 09:11:04 GMT http://thedenverhospice.org/blog/14831/The-Denver-Hospice-and-FOX31-Partner-to-Support-Military-Veterans http://thedenverhospice.org/blog/14830/How-Hospice-Care-Brings-Families-Together blog When Gail and Gloria admitted their elderly mother to hospice as she neared the end of her life, they mentioned that they had a younger brother who had been estranged from the family for the past twenty years. The sisters agreed that they did not want him to be notified of their mother's condition or to be part of the decision-making process. But then they learned from the hospice nurse that their mother had confided her deepest wish: to see her son again and to have her children reconcile their relationships. Finally Gail and Gloria agreed to reach out to their brother and ultimately the three of them were able to heal their differences and care for their mother as a united team. The sisters admitted that they were relieved to see their mother truly at peace at the end of life after they welcomed their brother back into the family. Stories like this are repeated on a daily basis within hospices around the country. In fact one of the most rewarding aspects of working in hospice is the opportunity to see how families come together and strengthen their bonds when they learn that a loved one is nearing the end of life. Even families that have experienced stress and tension for years have managed to heal their differences when they are called to be at the bedside of a terminally ill family member. Here are some of the ways in which hospice helps to foster this type of reconciliation: Teamwork is necessary to provide care. A patient who receives hospice care at home must have family or paid caregivers available around the clock, which takes cooperation to arrange. Family members need to create a schedule for care and decide how to meet the needs of their loved one. This allows an opportunity for negotiation, which can bring out the best (or sometimes, the worst) of each person in the family. Priorities shift at the end of life. As patients and their families face their own mortality they often come to see that what really matters at the end of life is different than what mattered before. In the case of Gail and Gloria, their determination to keep their brother away soon faded when they saw how much their mother wanted them to forgive one another. Suddenly their old anger and resentments were no longer the most important issue driving their decisions and they began to see their relationship in a new light. Focus is on the needs of the patient. When families come together to help a loved one they tend to focus their efforts on what is best for the patient, and harmony between family members is always better for the wellbeing of the patient than conflict. Patients often want to know that their children, parents or siblings love one another and will take care of each other after they are gone. The wishes of the patient can be powerful motivators for family members to heal their relationships. Hospice staff helps with communication. The hospice team includes a social worker, chaplain and often a counselor who are trained to help families with communication. These staff members can facilitate family discussions and mediate when conflicts arise. In our hospice we frequently reached out to estranged family members on behalf of our patients to invite them to reconnect with their loved ones. With help, the majority of these families were able to find peace after many years of disruption. Caregiving can foster forgiveness. The act of caring for an ill loved one requires determination and sacrifice, but also leads to deeper connection and intimacy. As family members work together to provide care and meet the needs of the patient, they may soften their hard edges and let go of their demands for perfection from one another. This is a scenario that then leads to forgiveness as each person recognizes their interdependence and finds value in being close rather than being at odds with one another. Hospice teams model compassion. One of the greatest benefits of working with hospice is the heart-centered focus of the people who make up the hospice team. The nurses, aides, chaplains, social workers, volunteers, and even the administrators of the hospice are all trained to be comfortable with death and to develop their capacity for compassion, as well as, their medical expertise. When hospice team members visit their patients, family members have the opportunity to observe how to be present with a dying person and how to bring love and calmness to any situation. This powerful learning experience is available to families who choose to admit their loved ones to hospice at the end of life. Of course, not every family will find a way to come together in peace and reconciliation when their loved one nears the end of life. In fact, some families are split even further apart over conflicts around how and where their loved one should receive care. But the likelihood of healing family disruption is increased when a decision to utilize hospice is made early on in the end of life process. It takes time to let go of past difficulties and find forgiveness so it's never too soon to begin working toward that outcome. Patients and families both benefit from having more days together to focus on love, care and respect as life is nearing the end'and hospice team members are the perfect teachers and guides for that journey. Tue, 20 Feb 2018 04:17:05 GMT http://thedenverhospice.org/blog/14830/How-Hospice-Care-Brings-Families-Together http://thedenverhospice.org/blog/14829/REGISTER-TODAY-for-Heroes---Halos-A-Tribute-to-Veterans-Event blog Did you know Colorado is home to more than 400,000 military veterans? In fact, one in ten Colorado residents has served in the U.S. Armed Forces. Most veterans are older than 65 and more than 5,000 die annually. The Denver Hospice provides specialized care for U.S. military veterans and their families, thanks in large part to the financial and volunteer support of our community. Please register today and join us on June 9th, for Heroes & Halos: A Tribute to Veterans. We are planning a very special evening as we salute our military veterans and raise critical funding for The Denver Hospice to continue to provide the highest level of care for our military veterans and Denver-area families facing end of life decisions. Tickets, tables and corporate sponsorships are now available, with special rates for veterans and active duty military. The Denver Hospice is proud to be recognized with a four-star rating from We Honor Veterans, a program focused on respectful inquiry, compassionate listening and grateful acknowledgment of our U.S. military veterans. Highlights of our veterans programming includes: Specialized training for staff and volunteers Access to all military benefits and honors Recognition for military service Veterans Helping Veterans volunteer program Heroes and Halos will feature keynote and motivational speaker, Archie Manning, a welcome reception with open bar and entertainment provided by The Denver Dolls, a meet and greet opportunity with Mr. Manning for VIP ticket holders, and inspirational ceremonies aimed at honoring and celebrating our active military and veteran Heroes. For more information, please visit us at TheDenverHospice.org/Heroes&Halos or contact us at Giving@care4denver.org or 303-780-4517. Mon, 12 Feb 2018 04:29:19 GMT http://thedenverhospice.org/blog/14829/REGISTER-TODAY-for-Heroes---Halos-A-Tribute-to-Veterans-Event http://thedenverhospice.org/blog/14828/How-to-be-an-Effective-Healthcare-Decision-Maker-for-Your-Loved-One blog Choosing a person to make healthcare decisions for you if you are unable to speak for yourself is one of the most important steps you can take for your future wellbeing. That person will stand up for you and guard your wishes in order to ensure that you receive the type of care you want in any situation. But what if the patient is one of your loved ones and YOU have been named as the decision-maker? Are you prepared to make the best possible healthcare choices for that person? Here are some questions you will need to answer in order to be an effective healthcare proxy or advocate for someone you love. Do you know what your loved one values most? Understanding what is most important to your loved one will help you make decisions about end-of-life issues that may not have been discussed in detail. For example, my mother told me that more than anything else she wanted to be in her own home during her final days of life. That one wish of hers became the guide for all other decisions I had to make as she approached death, such as the decision to forego surgery and take her home from the hospital and the decision to engage home hospice services to help with her care. Spend time discussing the end of life with your loved ones, perhaps over several different conversations, in order to fully understand their values and choices. Ask questions until you have a clear picture of their wishes and take notes so you will remember what you have learned. Can you agree with your loved one's choices? In order to be a strong advocate for your loved one you should either be in agreement with his or her preferences or be willing to set aside your own feelings. If you are conflicted about the choices that have been made you may find it very difficult to speak on behalf of your loved one in a moment of crisis when emotions are high. Be honest with your loved one if you don't support their wishes but don't try to change their opinion. If you can't find a way to accept their choices after spending time in conversation then perhaps you are not the right person to be their advocate. Help your loved one find someone else who might be able to advocate for him or her without feeling conflicted. Are you willing to be available at a moment's notice? Difficult healthcare decisions are often required in emergency situations when there is no time to prepare or plan ahead. As a decision-maker you could be called to come to the hospital in the middle of the night or during a busy work day and you have to be willing to be inconvenienced on behalf of your loved one. Make sure you will be able to interrupt your normal routine to follow through with this commitment. Have a back-up plan in place in case you need to leave home or your workplace on sudden notice. Can you handle the emotional stress of difficult decisions? You may be called upon to make life or death choices for your loved one, such as whether or not to use artificial life support to sustain a heartbeat. The emotional distress can be very high in an unexpected emergency and you will need to maintain a clear head in order to work with medical providers to choose the best options. Being very clear and certain about your loved one's choices can help you with this task. But also work on your own emotional resilience so you can hold up well during times of crisis. Journaling, meditation or prayer, and reading about end-of-life issues can help you be better prepared for the challenges you may face as a healthcare proxy. Can you stand firm if others disagree with you? Advocating for the wishes of a loved one can get tricky if medical providers or other family members disagree with the choices that have been made. You will need to be strong enough to hold your ground if others argue against your loved one's preferences and able to tolerate their disapproval. Ask your loved ones to include as many family members as possible in conversations about end-of-life wishes. Disagreements and misunderstandings can be avoided if there is good communication and an opportunity to ask questions about those wishes long before the time when difficult decisions are required. Being an informed and supportive healthcare proxy is one of the most caring roles you can fulfill on behalf of your loved one. Frequent conversations about goals and wishes for the end of life will help you prepare for this task and be ready for anything unexpected that may occur. Ultimately you will be grateful for the opportunity to serve your loved one in this way and, as happened for me, your grief will be lessened by the knowledge that you helped his or her last wishes become a reality. Mon, 29 Jan 2018 10:22:45 GMT http://thedenverhospice.org/blog/14828/How-to-be-an-Effective-Healthcare-Decision-Maker-for-Your-Loved-One http://thedenverhospice.org/blog/14827/When-You-Can-t-be-Present-for-a-Last-Goodbye blog When my niece died in hospice in another city this summer I was unable to travel there to say goodbye before her death. I was crushed that I didn't have one last opportunity to hold her hand and tell her I loved her, but as it worked out that just was not possible. In an ideal world many of us would like to be with our dearest loved ones at the end of their lives, to say goodbye and 'I love you' one last time. But in this day and age we live very busy lives that often take place many miles away from our families so there are times when we cannot travel to be present for those special and fleeting moments. Some of us may even go to great lengths to get to another city only to find that we missed the final breath by a few hours. This distressing reality can lead to unresolved guilt and grief as we blame ourselves for not being there. But here are some things I'd like you to know about the dying process based on my many years of hospice experience: 1. Dying has a unique timeframe. Even with the best medical knowledge we cannot accurately predict when a terminal patient will die. I have seen patients live far longer than seemed medically possible and also patients who died much sooner than expected for no obvious reason. Don't blame yourself if you cannot be there at the 'right' time since you have no way of knowing in advance when that time will be. 2. Dying is an internal process. In the last few days before death patients tend to turn inward and focus on the personal work they need to do in order to let go of life. They enter into a semi-comatose state where they seem to be having experiences that we cannot understand. They may express a desire to see a particular family member, but often they are preoccupied with their own process and don't need much interaction with others. Most likely your loved one is not focusing on whether or not you are physically present in the room. 3. Each person's preferences are different. Some people want to be surrounded by loved ones as they prepare to die, but others need to be left alone in order to complete the work they are doing. Usually we cannot predict who will want to be alone in advance and even patients themselves, when asked about it ahead of time, don't realize that they may need solitude during those last moments. Some people who have always been very social find that they no longer want to interact with others when they are ready to die. While you may want to be there to say goodbye it's possible that your loved one is content to have fewer visitors at that time. In fact one woman I know spent every moment at her mother's side so that she would not die alone. But the mother took her last breath during a brief period when her daughter went outside for a few minutes. Apparently she needed to be alone to finally let go and her daughter simply had to accept her choice. 4. Death can be delayed at times. Again without any medical explanation, some dying patients seem to be able to postpone the time of death in order to 'wait' for a loved one who is expected to visit. I have seen many occasions when the patient had an intense need to see someone one last time and, against medical odds, survived an amazing number of extra days, until that person arrived. If your loved one did not wait for you to come please view it as a sign that there was no unfinished business between you and don't blame yourself for not getting there in time. 5. The dying perceive things that we cannot explain. In my work with dying patients I have witnessed their ability to 'see' and 'feel' the love that others are sending to them, even from a far distance. Many of them have explained that they feel connected to distant family members and 'know' that they are loved, even if those people cannot be physically present. Trust that all of your concern and loving thoughts have been received by your dear one and forgive yourself for not being able to be in the room at the time of death. If you know you cannot be there and you have a need to say goodbye try calling on the telephone to express your love. The day before my mother died she received phone calls from two dear friends who lived far away. Even though she was semi-comatose she listened as I held the receiver to her ear and smiled at the sound of their voices. She was unable to respond verbally but I could see that she heard the message so I reassured her friends that their farewells got through to her. Remember that you have no control over the timing of your loved one's death. Follow your heart and travel if you need to and you can but don't stress if it doesn't work out. Your loved one in some way or another will still perceive your effort and your loving intention. Trust that your loved one would not want you to carry a burden of guilt with you and create your own 'goodbye' ritual if you cannot be there in person. On the day my niece died I gathered some wildflowers and dropped them into a flowing stream while I spoke all of the messages I would have shared with her. My heart became much lighter as I imagined her standing next to me, watching the blossoms drift slowly downstream. May you too find a way to be at peace with all of the farewells you must speak from a distance. Fri, 12 Jan 2018 04:52:31 GMT http://thedenverhospice.org/blog/14827/When-You-Can-t-be-Present-for-a-Last-Goodbye http://thedenverhospice.org/blog/14826/How-Hospice-Helps--Demystifying-the-Hospice-Experience blog A terminal diagnosis can be overwhelming for patients and families for a host of reasons. In addition to the emotional devastation of anticipating your loss, you probably have a variety of questions you're not sure how to answer. Who will be involved in providing end-of-life care? Where should that care be provided? How will you manage symptoms and pain for the patient? How will you manage stress and psychological needs of family caregivers? How will hospice help? Hospice care originated in the 20th century as a way to provide a choice for patients and families and address the feelings of helplessness that can come at the end of life. Hospice focuses on a holistic, team-oriented approach to patient care and ensuring compassionate, respectful access to physical, emotional, psychological, spiritual and even financial support services. Research has shown that patients who are enrolled in hospice often have better, faster pain management and a higher quality of life. Most who enroll choose to have care in the comfort of their own homes. And in many cases, patients live longer than those without access to hospice. For nearly 40 years, The Denver Hospice has been here to help patients and families find answers and arrive at the right end-of-life support system for your unique needs. Our nurses, social workers and chaplains provide high-quality hospice and palliative care services for patients with advanced illnesses and injuries. Our skilled teams are available 24 hours a day, seven days a week, and care for patients wherever they reside'in their own homes, skilled-care facilities, hospitals or at our own Inpatient Care Center at Lowry. Read some of the most frequently asked questions about hospice or contact us today on (303) 321-2828. Wed, 27 Dec 2017 05:03:34 GMT http://thedenverhospice.org/blog/14826/How-Hospice-Helps--Demystifying-the-Hospice-Experience http://thedenverhospice.org/blog/14825/Happy-Holidays-from-the-staff-and-volunteers-at-The-Denver-Hospice- blog Over the last several years, volunteers and staff from The Denver Hospice have come together to celebrate the Holidays with the patients and families we serve. We are thrilled to share that this holiday tradition is alive and well in 2017! This season, generous volunteers and staff came together to provide gift baskets and holiday dinners to 11 families receiving hospice and/or palliative care services. Eleven different departments at The Denver Hospice, including various clinical and administrative teams, pooled their philanthropy in an effort to ensure these families experienced the joy of the holiday season. Families from Longmont to Castle Rock received toys, clothes, complete turkey dinners and other items requested. After receiving their holiday gifts, one family expressed their gratitude by writing' 'Oh Wow! A thousand thanks to all of you. We were not be able to buy any presents for our daughters, and with this great help, they now have presents. God multiplies to all of you, and he continues blessing you all because he already blessed us by sending us ANGELS like YOU. Have a beautiful Merry Christmas!' All of us at The Denver Hospice, volunteers and staff alike, are both thrilled and honored to continue this holiday tradition of giving back to the patients and families we serve. On behalf of our staff and volunteers, and in the spirit of Christopher's Angel's Fund and the mission of The Denver Hospice, Happy Holidays to those requiring unprecedented levels of comfort, compassion and expertise. Fri, 22 Dec 2017 04:41:31 GMT http://thedenverhospice.org/blog/14825/Happy-Holidays-from-the-staff-and-volunteers-at-The-Denver-Hospice- http://thedenverhospice.org/blog/14824/Snow--flake--Angels blog Each winter for the past 18 years, students at Campus Middle School take a break from their holiday wish list to give back to their community. The school's annual snowflake drive offers an opportunity for students to sell snowflakes and raise funds for families facing financial challenges at the end of a loved one's life. This year students raised an amazing $6,644! These students are truly offering light and hope to families in an otherwise difficult time. Since 1999, Campus Middle School students have raised over $130,000 by embracing a difficult reality for vulnerable families in our community. They've shown incredible heart in raising money for The Denver Hospice. We couldn't be more grateful! What is Christopher's Angels Fund? Christopher's Angels Fund was founded in 1989 by Bob and Donna Johnson in memory of their son. Christopher died in the care of The Denver Hospice when he was two years old. The Johnsons struggled financially during Christopher's illness and struggled to find resources to help. They created this fund to help ease the financial stress on other families coping with terminal illness. How are donations used? Family assistance grants from Christopher's Angels Fund can be requested for non-medical needs like food, clothing, mortgage/rent payments, monthly bills, home and auto repairs, and transportation expenses and even funeral/memorial service costs. Christopher's Angels Fund truly makes a difference in the lives of families serviced by The Denver Hospice. As families reach the end of a long battle with a terminal illness, their financial resources are often depleted. Many hospice families find themselves not only dealing with the stress of illness, but coping with being stretched beyond their limits, trying to fit work and other responsibilities into a physically and emotionally demanding experience. The grants given from Christopher's Angels Fund help alleviate financial burdens, enabling hospice patients and families to attend to what is most important ' spending as much quality time as they can with the people they love." How can I help? Gifts may be made to Christopher's Angels Fund year-round here. Each August supporters participate in a motorcycle poker run to raise needed funds. Interested in learning more about this and other events? Please contact Giving@care4denver.org. Thu, 21 Dec 2017 04:48:18 GMT http://thedenverhospice.org/blog/14824/Snow--flake--Angels http://thedenverhospice.org/blog/14823/Successful-Disaster-Drill blog For almost 40 years, The Denver Hospice and Optio Health Services have led the way in providing top-notch comfort and care to those in our community facing a terminal illness. Part of our commitment to being at the forefront of serving this vulnerable population is to meet the Centers of Medicare and Medicaid Services (CMS) conditions of participation in initiating and maintaining the highest standards in Emergency Preparedness so that all staff and partners are ready should a disaster strike. Last month,"through a coordinated effort with community resources, we successfully ran a complete disaster drill in which all electricity as well as back up electricity was lost at our 24-bed Inpatient Care Center. We tested response protocols and timing for triaging current patients and 'walking wounded' from the community, while transporting the patients who could not be cared for properly with Apex"Paramedics. This was the first of many disaster drills that will ensure The Denver Hospice staff can respond quickly and efficiently for whatever is needed to assist our patients, families, staff and surrounding Thu, 16 Nov 2017 10:21:24 GMT http://thedenverhospice.org/blog/14823/Successful-Disaster-Drill http://thedenverhospice.org/blog/14822/The-Denver-Hospice-Announces-2018-Signature-Fundraising-Event---Heroes-and-Halos--A-Tribute-to-Veterans- blog Nearly one-third of patients served by The Denver Hospice are U.S. military veterans. To highlight the contributions of all service men and women, The Denver Hospice has announced its 2018 signature fundraising event, Heroes and Haloes: A Tribute to Veterans. The new event is expected to draw more than 300 attendees on June 9, 2018 at the Wings Over the Rockies Air and Space Museum, and will feature Archie Manning, former NFL player and son of a military veteran, as the keynote speaker. The announcement comes in advance of Veteran's Day (Nov. 11), as The Denver Hospice is commemorating National Hospice and Palliative Care month with its CareGiving 2017 campaign. The six-week campaign is focused on raising awareness and funding to support the critical services The Denver Hospice offers across the nine-county Denver metro area, including a variety of services for military veterans and their families. Archie Manning, Keynote Speaker In addition to Archie Manning delivering the keynote address, the event will include military ceremonies, live music and a formal dinner. Manning's remarks will drive home the significance of how leadership and teamwork can bring success in individuals' personal and professional lives. Get more information on tickets and sponsorships. 'Approximately 30 percent of our patients are military veterans, and with Heroes and Halos: A Tribute to Veterans, we will further our commitment to solidifying their legacy and honoring their sacrifices,' said Melinda Egging, current president of The Denver Hospice. 'In addition to our specialized hospice and palliative care services designed to serve the needs of military veterans, this event is part of The Denver Hospice's promise that veterans will not be forgotten ' their military careers will be honored, and their stories will be told and preserved.' The Denver Hospice was the first Denver-area hospice to achieve the highest level of accreditation from We Honor Veterans campaign, a joint program of the Veterans Administration and the National Hospice and Palliative Care Organization. The Denver Hospice provides specialized support for military veterans by addressing their physical, emotional, psychological and spiritual needs to improve quality of life. As part of its commitment to veterans, The Denver Hospice collaborates with the Veterans Administration Medical Center and Regional Department of Veterans Affairs and offers patients: Help for veterans and their families to ensure they can access all veteran benefits and military accolades A Veterans Helping Veterans volunteer program in which military veterans volunteer their time to provide companionship and support The Bill Daniels Veterans Wing of The Denver Hospice Inpatient Care Center at Lowry, which features the Wall of Honor recognizing veterans for their service A Certificate of Appreciation to honor their years of military service Prospective event sponsors have a variety of options, including Presenting Freedom Sponsor, Valor, Patriot and Liberty sponsorships, as well as table and individual ticket levels. Special pricing is available for active duty and military veterans. All table and ticket levels include a welcome cocktail reception, and elite level sponsorships include a meet-and-greet with Archie Manning, brand recognition at the event and media exposure. Wed, 08 Nov 2017 09:14:23 GMT http://thedenverhospice.org/blog/14822/The-Denver-Hospice-Announces-2018-Signature-Fundraising-Event---Heroes-and-Halos--A-Tribute-to-Veterans- http://thedenverhospice.org/blog/14821/-Nothing-keeps-a-good-man-down- blog 'Veterans in hospice care know what it means to sacrifice and to serve. As a volunteer, I'm here to listen if they want to tell their story. Sometimes that can be very meaningful for them, but I think I'm the one who gets the gift of learning through them. It is just an honor,' says Amanda Korth, a Denver Hospice volunteer. Jack, his middle son - Steve, and Amanda Amanda's recent project captured the details of Jack Cauch's life and decorated military service to create a leave-behind memoir for his children, grandchildren and great-grandchildren. Amanda recalls, 'My father also served during WWII so recording Jack's stories helped me understand what my father went through a bit more too.' Jack is charming and at 99-years-old, although he is a bit frail, his indomitable spirit is immediately captivating. As a career military man, his drive and determination made for an adventurous life and legacy. Enlisting in the army when he was only 17, Private Cauch worked as a weather observer (not a forecaster ' he is quick to add) for the Army Air Corps. To this day, he blames his poor eyesight on his midnight shifts performing that duty. Jack went on to serve his country faithfully through two wars, climbing his way up the chain of command to retire as a Major. Jack and Flo Ella His tenacity extended to his personal life as well. In 1940 he met the love of his life on a blind date, Flo Ella Turentine. Jack whistled as she walked across the room because she had the longest legs he'd ever seen. 'It took me a year to get back in her favor, and then I spent every moment I could at her house until Flo Ella's mom told me to marry her, just so I'd get out of her hair,' Jack recalls. The couple married in 1942, as Jack's military service was about to hit high gear. While Jack says, 'there isn't much to tell,' his stories about serving in the European Theater during World War II and the Korean War paint a much different picture. As do a purple heart and a bronze star, two of several military honors that sit in an acrylic case next to his hat, silently displaying a more accurate picture of his bravery, sacrifice and service. Jack has his four medals tattooed on his back, he says, 'Just in case I need proof of my character.' During World War II, Jack transferred to the motor pool and became a truck master. He transported aircraft parts and bombs from Liverpool throughout all of England. It was often necessary to drive at night in blackout conditions so as not to be seen by the German 'Buzzbombers.' Jack got caught in France during the Battle of the Bulge while driving a convoy from England to Belgium. He describes the French Resistance as being 'all over them.' The post commander promoted him from private to first sergeant, but Jack had his eyes set on officer training school. Even though he was 'blown off' by command several times, he persisted and in his last year of eligibility ' at 27 years old and the oldest in cadet school ' he graduated as a second lieutenant. During the Korean War, Jack spent 14 months situated between North and South Korea, in Chinchon. He earned his purple heart in 1953 from mortar shell shrapnel that entered through one cheek and out the other. He credits daily flossing for keeping all of his teeth despite this injury. With humor, grace and a light in his eyes, Jack says that he wants to live to 114, and after meeting him, it is easy to believe that may happen. He has survived cancer, pneumonia and brain surgery. He has had to bear the loss of his wife after 54 years of marriage, and the death of one of his sons in 2016. Still, he says, 'Nothing will keep a good man down, and no one can match me.' We honor veterans As one of the first in our region to earn a Level 4 status in the 'We Honor Veterans' campaign, The Denver Hospice demonstrates our highest regard for all our military veterans. This joint program of the National Hospice and Palliative Care Organization and the Veterans Administration ensures that each veteran of our country is not only appreciated, but he or she has access to the highest quality end-of-life care." Staff receives special training in the sensitive issues that can arise in relation to a veteran's experience of service. The opportunity to work with Veterans exemplifies The Denver Hospice's highest ideal of creating patient-centered care that addresses all aspects of one's life from physical pain reduction to offering emotional and spiritual support with loving comfort and care. Nearly one-third of all Denver Hospice patients, more than 940, are honored military veterans from all branches of service and all decades since World War II. Mon, 06 Nov 2017 02:53:13 GMT http://thedenverhospice.org/blog/14821/-Nothing-keeps-a-good-man-down- http://thedenverhospice.org/blog/14820/The-Denver-Hospice-Honors-Families--Caregivers---Veterans-with-CareGiving-2017-Campaign blog https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=JXC6OTQjeUc November is National Hospice and Palliative Care Month and for the second straight year, The Denver Hospice is recognizing military veterans, families and caregivers with its CareGiving campaign. Caregiving 2017 will focus on raising awareness and funding to support individuals and families facing advanced illness and end-of-life decisions, and to honor the caregivers and volunteers who are with them throughout their journey. The Caregiving 2017 campaign will run through November and culminate on Dec. 5 on Colorado Gives Day. CareGiving 2017 aims to raise awareness and critical funding for the services and resources it provides families and patients throughout the nine-county Denver metro area, through digital and social media storytelling, tips about how to approach difficult conversations with your loved ones, and information about services including grief counseling, palliative care and specialized services for military veterans. Approximately one-third of the patients that The Denver Hospice serves are military veterans, many of whom have unique experiences and specialized needs as they consider their palliative and hospice care options. Look for a very special veteran-related announcement the week of Veteran's Day, which is Nov. 11. While the Denver Hospice's CareGiving 2017 campaign culminates on Colorado Gives Day, those gifts can be scheduled starting today at Colorado Gives. For every Colorado Gives Day gift to The Denver Hospice, we will receive a portion of the $1 million Colorado Gives Day incentive fund, so your gift will go even further to helping if you participate in this annual campaign. 'National Hospice and Palliative Care Month provides an important platform from which to discuss subjects that are difficult but essential for everyone to consider,' said Melinda Egging, current president at The Denver Hospice. 'CareGiving 2017 allows us to celebrate stories of love, dignity and support while sharing critical information about options and resources made possible by The Denver Hospice ' regardless of an individual's ability to pay.' The Denver Hospice was named Best Non-Profit in ColoradoBiz magazine's Best of Colorado Business Choice Awards for 2016 and is the only hospice in Denver to achieve Level IV designation'the highest-level accreditation in We Honor Veterans, a joint program of the Veterans Administration and the National Hospice and Palliative Care Organization. To schedule a year-end charitable contribution to The Denver Hospice for Colorado Gives Day, visit the Colorado Gives Day website. Join the conversation on Facebook and Twitter using the hashtags #CareGiving2017 and #HospiceMonth. Wed, 01 Nov 2017 04:39:16 GMT http://thedenverhospice.org/blog/14820/The-Denver-Hospice-Honors-Families--Caregivers---Veterans-with-CareGiving-2017-Campaign http://thedenverhospice.org/blog/14819/The-Denver-Hospice-is-Named-One-of-the-Top-25-Palliative-Care-Blogs-and-Websites-on-the-Web blog The Denver Hospice is pleased to announce that Feedspot has named our blog, Chronicles of Care, a Top 25 Palliative Care Blog and Website on the Web."All of the blogs are"ranked based on following criteria: Google reputation and Google search ranking Influence and popularity on Facebook, twitter and other social media sites Quality and consistency of posts Feedspot's editorial team and expert review Mon, 30 Oct 2017 03:24:31 GMT http://thedenverhospice.org/blog/14819/The-Denver-Hospice-is-Named-One-of-the-Top-25-Palliative-Care-Blogs-and-Websites-on-the-Web http://thedenverhospice.org/blog/14818/Preserving-My-Mother-s-Dignity-at-the-End-of-Her-Life blog When my mother reached the end of her life she had only two requests: that she be able to die in her own home and that I be by her side. But I knew as well that it would be very important for her to retain her dignity, even as her physical health was declining. Mom had always been a beautiful woman and took pride in how she dressed and presented herself to the world. So I realized it would be important to her to feel she was at her best even in the worst of situations. In my research as a hospice doctor about providing the best quality care to patients I learned that the word dignity comes from the Latin word dignitas, meaning worth or value. I understood that one of the keys to preserving Mom's dignity would be to make sure she always felt valued and worthy of the greatest love possible as she was dying. But how could I accomplish that? According to research done by Dr. Harvey Max Chochinov,1 dignity at the end of life can be undermined by inadequately treated pain, lack of support both from family and from professionals, depression or hopelessness, increased dependency, and quality of life. So using those guidelines I set out to make sure that Mom would not question her own value or worth as she was dying. Here are some of the steps I took: Enlist the help of a local hospice. The hospice we worked with provided a nurse who made home visits to assess Mom's pain and other symptoms and then brought us the medications and medical equipment needed to keep her comfortable. Hospice also provided a home health aide who helped Mom bathe and change her clothes and bed linens when needed. So with the help of hospice Mom had reliable professional support and care for her pain and dependency needs. Maintain her self-care rituals. For as long as I could remember Mom had always had a nightly ritual of applying various cleansers and creams to her face, neck and eyes before she went to sleep. When she could no longer get out of bed I brought in a tray of her facial creams and helped her apply them, just as she had done every night in the past. This simple gesture helped her see that she was still the same person she had always been and that she still mattered. Invite family and friends to visit. A few days before Mom died I set aside some time when her closest friends and family members could stop by for a final brief visit. I fixed her hair, dressed her in her best robe and straightened up her bedroom so that she would feel comfortable having guests come in. She beamed brightly that day at the outpouring of love for her and had the chance to deliver her own messages of love to special people. She knew without a doubt that she was cherished. Support her spiritual faith. Mom had always been deeply religious but in the last few days of her life she began to wonder why God was still keeping her alive when she was so ready to die. She told me many stories of her prayers for other people and miracles that she had witnessed and I helped her to see that perhaps she was still alive because there were still people who needed her prayers. This thought gave her great comfort and she decided to pray for blessings for the hospice workers who had been caring for her. She went to sleep on her last night of life recognizing that she had a valuable role to play even as she was dying. Preserving my mother's dignity in the last days of her life was the least I could do for her after the care she had given to me throughout my life. I learned that when we slow down, take time to listen and be present with our loved ones, they will tell us what they need in order to feel valued and worthy of our love. In the days and months following her death my own grief was easier to bear because I knew Mom had died in peace and love and with her dignity still intact. 1 Chochinov HM, Hack T, Hassard T, Kristjanson LJ, McClement S, Harlos M. Lancet. 2002 Dec 21-28;360(9350):2026-30 Fri, 06 Oct 2017 03:33:57 GMT http://thedenverhospice.org/blog/14818/Preserving-My-Mother-s-Dignity-at-the-End-of-Her-Life http://thedenverhospice.org/blog/14817/My-Autobiography-is-Still-Being-Written blog I'm writing to share my story about why The Denver Hospice is so special and to demystify and encourage others to look into art or music therapy because it has meant the world to me. "I'm not waiting to die. I'm living." When you walk into the Inpatient Care Center at Lowry, you'll see two masks I created that now hang on the wall behind the nurses' station. One is called 'Pain and Hope,' and the other mask is called the 'Unfinished Autobiography of a Hospice Patient.'" As the first patient to be involved with the Mask Project, I wanted to say that while we may be on hospice, we're not dead yet. You see, I've been on hospice before when my prognosis was grim. I've been near-death before ' several times. I was born with Gardner's syndrome which"is caused by changes (mutations) in the"APC"gene, a "tumor suppressor." "Mutations in this"gene lead to uncontrolled cell growth, polyps,"tumors"and"cancer which I now have." I was born with benign tumors. At 8, I was told I wouldn't live past 12. At 14, I had tumors in my jaw preventing me from eating. Then, I was told I wouldn't live past 18. Life with this rare condition has been difficult and unpredictable. Unfinished Autobiography of a Hospice Patient In March of 2016, my kidneys were failing, and I was sent to The Denver Hospice's Inpatient Care Center. Truly, the care and compassion I received from everyone at The Denver Hospice was surprising. Not many can say they've experienced hospice from different providers, so trust me when I say that the staff of The Denver Hospice are excellent. They take time and effort to know you. My care is personal, and I know my day to day life is better now because of my care team." This is another way The Denver Hospice is unique ' the medical team wants us to provide input in our own treatment!" Most of the time doctors or therapists say this, but they've already decided what needs to be done and they just want to make sure we will agree. These nurses and doctors acknowledged my 30 years of study, research and treatments and have true conversations with me! I feel part of my care. Only truly expert medical professionals are confident enough to engage patients in their own care." Not only did they understand the complexity of my disease and cancer, they helped me manage my pain AND gave me an outlet to express myself." While an inpatient, I saw a poster for their Mask Project fundraiser, and I asked if I could contribute. They were so helpful and encouraging! Friends and staff brought six bags of materials. Now, once a week, I receive a visit from Aga, an art therapist and bereavement counselor with The Denver Hospice. Aga and Kimberly participate in Art Therapy I probably wouldn't pick up my paint brushes without Aga's gentle encouragement, because I'm tired a lot." It can be hard, but once I get started, it is the one area where I can process my life and what's happening. I believe that art or other creative therapies should be offered to every patient. It is the one part of my hospice team that is not about my constantly declining health. In my case at least, art therapy is equally important for my healthcare. I can't even imagine where I'd be emotionally or mentally without Aga." Sometimes we sit and talk, or Aga gives me an art prompt or technique to try. I've become so isolated as my disease has progressed, and I have no family to count on. From day to day I don't know if I'll have the energy to move or go out. It is hard to keep up with friends. Art therapy gives me some of the control back that I've lost with this illness. It is something tangible that I can do that isn't about death. I'm not waiting to die. I'm living. I have inner peace and that is such a blessing. My autobiography is still being written. Tue, 26 Sep 2017 05:04:55 GMT http://thedenverhospice.org/blog/14817/My-Autobiography-is-Still-Being-Written http://thedenverhospice.org/blog/14816/Simple-Questions-to-Start-an-End-of-Life-Conversation-with-an-Elderly-Loved-One blog Statistics show that when people talk about their healthcare wishes long before they reach the end of life, they receive less unnecessary and expensive care when they are dying. An excellent example of this fact is La Crosse, Wisconsin, where, as a result of a 20-year old initiative to talk about end-of-life planning, 96% of people who die have completed paperwork to specify their wishes for care. Because of this preparation the community spends less on end-of-life healthcare than any other place in the country. 1 We know that talking about death and dying helps people get the healthcare they want and avoid the care they don't want, yet most people don't have conversations about the end of life. According to a survey by The Conversation Project 90% of those surveyed think it's important to have this conversation but only 27% have actually talked to someone else about what they want for themselves when they reach life's end.2 This is one of the most difficult discussions we can have with a loved one. When I needed to bring up the subject with my own mother I struggled with how to begin. I didn't want her to misinterpret my intentions or to be frightened about her health when I brought it up. I also sensed that if I 'blew it' with my first attempt at talking about the end of life, I might not get another chance. Eventually I thought of two questions that helped me broach the subject of death and dying with Mom and led us to a meaningful conversation: 'What was it like for you when Grandma and Grandpa died?' Mom loved telling stories about the past and I found that she was eager to talk to me about the deaths of her parents. I learned that she felt guilty that Grandma had died in the hospital after her third heart attack. She had told Mom she never wanted to go to a hospital or be resuscitated again. Mom hadn't been able to change the circumstances of her own mother's death because there was no hospice in the community at that time and no awareness of advance directives. Next she told me that Grandpa had died in the hospital all alone in the middle of the night while he awaited surgery the next morning. Again she felt guilty that no one was with Grandpa when he died and wondered what she could have done differently. Both of these stories helped me explain to her how things are different now, and how hospices help people stay at home (if that is their wish) and advance directives help them avoid unwanted treatments. Families that are well-informed about their loved ones wishes can help make the best possible medical decisions when that person reaches the end of life. This led directly to my next question for Mom: 'What would you like to be different for you when your time comes?' This seemed like a logical and natural question to ask when it followed the previous conversation. Mom wasn't shocked or upset at all when I asked it. She actually seemed relieved to tell me some things she had thought. She told me she was certain she did not want to die in a hospital or any other facility. She wanted, if possible, to die in her own home and in her own bed. She also wanted to have only minimal medical intervention during the rest of her life because she felt it was natural to grow older and die of old age. She didn't want to be subjected to treatments that wouldn't make a difference and would only 'make her miserable.' From there we discussed what she envisioned as a 'perfect funeral,' where she wanted to be buried and how she wanted her possessions to be distributed to her family and friends. She told me she had wanted to talk about these issues but hadn't known how to bring them up and she was grateful that I asked her those two simple questions. If you are struggling to start a conversation with your elderly loved one think of your own simple questions that might open the subject in a non-threatening way'or feel free to borrow mine. Any amount of discussion that follows will be helpful and informative. I guarantee you will be glad you made the effort to have this talk and you might even be inspired to think about your own end of life wishes. It's never too early to start the conversation and the process. 1https://www.npr.org/sections/money/2014/03/05/286126451/living-wills-are-the-talk-of-the-town-in-la-crosse-wis 2https://theconversationproject.org/tcp-blog/5-end-of-life-care-stats-everyone-should-know/ Thu, 14 Sep 2017 06:03:25 GMT http://thedenverhospice.org/blog/14816/Simple-Questions-to-Start-an-End-of-Life-Conversation-with-an-Elderly-Loved-One http://thedenverhospice.org/blog/14815/How-Family-Movie-Night-Can-Lead-to-a-Conversation-About-Death blog Recently there has been a growing focus for individuals in our society to look at their hopes and desires for the end-of-life and put those wishes into writing. The Five Wishes document and The Conversation Project Starter Kit have helped people think about that day when life will come to an end and put those thoughts and feelings into writing. But the most important step in the end-of-life planning process is to talk about those wishes with loved ones and that conversation is often difficult to initiate. How do we start talking about death with people who aren't sure they want to discuss it? One idea is to use a film, perhaps during a family 'movie night,' to help introduce the topic and get the discussion started. Films project the stories of characters onto the screen and allow us to look at difficult subjects from a distance without feeling personally involved. The stories portrayed in movies can also inspire the imagination, stir up emotions and provoke deep thoughts'all of which can be helpful during a conversation about death. Here are some suggestions for creating a special 'movie night' exploration of death and dying: 1. Allow ample time Choose a night when nothing else has been planned so there will be time and space for the conversation to unfold naturally after the film. 2. Keep it cozy Make sure the seating arrangements are comfortable for everyone, provide snacks and beverages, and minimize outside distractions that might take attention away from the film and the conversation. 3. Select the film carefully Consider the age and comfort level of the people you want to engage in conversation as you make your choice. Also be clear about your objective: do you want to inspire a discussion about death in general or do you have specific topics to bring up such as hospice care or living fully at the end of life or facing grief after the death of a loved one? For example, The Bucket List is a great film to kick off a conversation about how to live life fully when you know you are going to die. Stepmom shows the difficulties of family dynamics when one member is dying. Terms of Endearment focuses on the mother-daughter relationship and portrays the dying process and the grief that follows. If children are part of the conversation, The Lion King or Up could help address issues of grief after loss and the fact that death is a normal part of life. 4. Have a few questions ready Don't force the conversation but be prepared to get it started with your own comments or questions. For example ask 'What's on your bucket list?' or 'What would you give as a gift if you knew it was your last Christmas?' or 'How do you think Mufasa's death changed Simba?' 5. Do it again In case your first movie night conversation doesn't go as well as hoped, plan to try again with a different film and a different approach. These conversations are challenging but extremely important so don't give up on the idea! Since death is a natural and universal part of our human existence we really should be talking about it on a regular basis. Get creative and imagine how you might bring up the discussion after other films your family might watch together. Remember that families who have talked about death are more likely to have positive experiences when a loved one reaches the end of life. It's definitely a conversation worth having! Tue, 18 Jul 2017 05:00:03 GMT http://thedenverhospice.org/blog/14815/How-Family-Movie-Night-Can-Lead-to-a-Conversation-About-Death http://thedenverhospice.org/blog/14814/How-Being-a-Caregiver-Helped-Me-With-Grief blog As a hospice doctor I have often worked with families caring for a dying loved one at home. But I have only once had the opportunity to switch places and be the caregiver myself when my mother died. That was a profound and educational experience for me as I suddenly understood personally what it was like to be with a dying loved one around-the-clock. While before I had imagined what it felt like to sit up all night at the bedside holding vigil before the moment of death, I can now vividly recall the exhaustion and the uncertainty of that experience. Now I know far more than ever before what the act of being a caregiver takes and what it gives back. The greatest blessing of being a caregiver for me was the opportunity to experience grief even before my mother had died. I was able to let go of little moments with her one-by-one: the last time she ate a spoonful of the custard she loved so much, the last morning she brushed her own hair, the last afternoon she shuffled through the kitchen with her walker, the last evening she sat on her recliner and listened to the news, the last night she touched my face and kissed me goodnight. With the arrival of each new day, something else had been lost and the little world we were sharing became a bit smaller until we were left with only the bed she rested upon and the chair where I sat next to her. But I was able to let all of it go gradually while she was letting go of life and the pain I felt was somehow bearable. There are other ways that the act of being a caregiver helped me: Providing hands-on care and keeping my mother comfortable in her last hours gave me comfort as well. I was not just passively observing her dying process but I was helping her and it was a tremendous relief to be able to do something for her at that time. I knew I was honoring her wishes by keeping her at home because she had talked with me about what she wanted at the end of life. Everything I did and every moment I spent with her felt 'right' to me because I understood her preferences. I was there for special moments when Mom spoke a few words or opened her eyes and smiled. Those tiny little experiences mean everything to me now as I remember our journey together to her last breaths. I am forever grateful that I didn't miss a single moment. I could give her one last gift of gratitude by enabling her to stay in her own home and have the kind of death she wanted. While there is no way to ever repay a mother for all of her years of nurturing and tender care, being there when Mom needed me was one small gesture I could make to show her my deep love. We forgave one another. Our relationship had not always been easy and there were some painful memories between us that we could never discuss. But in the middle of the night when Mom nearly fell out of bed and I was frantically trying to lift her back to safety, we connected in a moment of pure human frustration and love. Without saying a word we looked at one another and both understood somehow ' life is difficult and we hurt one another along the way but nothing really shakes the deep love that resonates between our hearts. We both let go of all our resentment in that brief moment. These opportunities were only possible because we had enlisted the aid of a home hospice team, who made regular visits and assisted me with the care that was needed. I could not have done the work without their help and I understand more than ever the important role played by hospice staffs all over the world. I am a new person since caring for my Mom at the end of her life. I am a better doctor, a more compassionate wife, a more fun-loving mother, and a much wiser woman as I face my own aging. Life and death and grief ' they are all what we make of them and how we take care of ourselves and others during the journey. I know this for sure now and the rest of my life will be blessed by that knowledge. Wed, 12 Jul 2017 02:00:15 GMT http://thedenverhospice.org/blog/14814/How-Being-a-Caregiver-Helped-Me-With-Grief http://thedenverhospice.org/blog/14813/How-to-Talk-to-Healthcare-Providers-About-End-of-Life-Wishes blog One of the most important conversations you can have with your loved ones is to share your thoughts and feelings about the end of your life. The people closest to you need to know what you want for your last days so that they can advocate for your wishes, if you, for any reason, are unable to speak for yourself. This vital conversation could help you avoid receiving futile and expensive care that you don't want. But talking with your personal healthcare professional about your feelings and wishes is also essential. Your provider may be part of the medical decision-making team at the end of your life and will need to know, in alignment with your loved ones, what choices you would make for yourself. In addition, your medical practitioner can offer you valuable advice about your current state of health and the tough decisions you may need to face in the future. Here are seven tips for taking to healthcare providers about your end-of-life wishes: 1. Don't wait for your provider to bring it up. You will most likely need to initiate this end-of-life discussion. Even though there is a current movement to encourage doctors to have these conversations by providing Medicare payment, studies have shown that only about 14 percent of physicians are engaging in advance care planning discussions with their patients. So your care provider might be one of those who are reluctant to start the process. 2. Schedule a dedicated appointment for the conversation. Medical office visits for chronic health issues tend to be filled with many necessary tasks like arranging for lab tests, prescription renewals, and specialty referrals. Your doctor is likely to feel too rushed to have this important discussion in the middle of managing your hypertension or other health concern. So to allow enough time for a more relaxed discussion you should schedule a separate visit. Tell the receptionist that it is for advance care planning and ask for at least a 30-minute appointment. It may be necessary to reinforce that you have some important health-related issues to discuss with your provider. 3. Be prepared. Your visit with your healthcare provider will be much more productive and gratifying if you have prepared in advance. Spend some time learning about the options available at the end-of-life and thinking about your own preferences. The Conversation Starter Kit is a great place to begin. Download and print the free kit and complete it before your appointment. Go through each of the questions and take your time responding thoughtfully. 4. Choose your healthcare proxy. Decide in advance who you would want to speak on your behalf if you are unable to express your own wishes. Remember to choose someone who will be able to handle that responsibility emotionally and who also will be able to agree with your choices. Speak to that person and make sure they are willing to fulfill this role before your appointment. Also be prepared to name two people as alternates. 5. Print your paperwork in advance. Your state of residence will have specific forms you will need to complete, usually called the Living Will and the Healthcare Proxy form (or Durable Medical Power of Attorney), though your state may use different terminology. This is the official paperwork your provider will help you complete, so you can save a lot of time if you bring it with you to your appointment. 6. Bring a list of your questions. As you review the advance directive forms and the Conversation Starter Kit, write down any questions that come up for you. Ask about your own health status and what you can expect in the future. You also might have questions about some of the terms used in your advance directive forms, like mechanical ventilation, artificial nutrition and CPR. 7. Schedule a follow-up visit if necessary. These are complex conversations to have and difficult decisions to make so don't hesitate to return to your provider's office for more discussion if necessary. It's important that your wishes be clarified and understood so take all the time you need to accomplish that. Also it is recommended that you revisit your choices and update your paperwork every 5 years or whenever your health status changes. Planning ahead for the end-of-life is an ongoing process rather than a one-time task, so be prepared to have multiple conversations in the future. People who have completed their advance directives say they feel more at peace and comfortable about the future. Get your own planning started now so that you too can rest easy and live your life with less fear. Wed, 05 Jul 2017 02:00:43 GMT http://thedenverhospice.org/blog/14813/How-to-Talk-to-Healthcare-Providers-About-End-of-Life-Wishes http://thedenverhospice.org/blog/14809/How-I-Helped-My-Mother-Choose-Hospice-Care blog As a hospice physician who has cared for thousands of patients at the end of their lives, I had always assumed that hospice care would be an obvious choice for my mother when it came time for her to die. We had talked openly about my work for many years so I was not prepared for the fear and resistance that came up for her when it was time to choose the next steps in her medical care. I soon learned that while Mom thought hospice care was wonderful and a blessing for other people, she was not prepared to accept it for herself. As we talked together I learned that she had many of the same misunderstandings about hospice care that I had heard from patients and their families in my work. Before she could agree to become a hospice patient we needed to address each of Mom's concerns and misperceptions: 1. Does hospice mean 'going without' medical care? Mom feared that she would no longer be under the care of a doctor or be receiving attention for her medical problems. I helped her understand that hospice provides excellent care through a team approach that includes a doctor, nurse, aide, chaplain, social worker, and volunteers. Not only would all of her medical needs still be looked after, but she would actually be receiving the best possible care that focuses on the whole person, rather than just the disease. 2. Does hospice mean 'giving up' on life? Many people, including my Mom, have the misunderstanding that hospice should only be chosen when you no longer care about life. But in fact, I explained to Mom, patients who do choose hospice are able to enjoy life more fully because their time and energy is no longer consumed with difficult treatments and uncomfortable side effects. With the excellent symptom management provided by the hospice team, patients are able to spend time with their loved ones and enjoy special moments, such as these my patients have experienced: having a picnic in the park, watching a play, attending a birthday party, or going fishing. 3. Does hospice mean going to an 'old folks home'? Mom feared that if she chose hospice she might end up being admitted to a 'home' where she would be neglected or abandoned. I reassured her that hospice care would be provided in her own home by an attentive staff. She could be comfortable in her own surroundings with me and other family members looking after her with the help of the hospice workers. Those patients who need to be admitted to an inpatient facility still receive the same level of compassionate care that is provided in the home and can have loved ones at the bedside throughout their stay. 4. Does hospice mean being cared for by strangers? Mom quickly learned during our introductory meeting with the hospice nurse that the healthcare workers who are attracted to hospice work are very special people. She immediately bonded with the nurse and recognized that she would be receiving not only competent care, but also compassionate, loving care. Her fears of being neglected or mistreated vanished when she saw that during her home visits she was free to ask questions and express her wishes. 5. Do hospice patients die more quickly? Mom was concerned that choosing to move from curative treatment to supportive hospice care would shorten her life. But I was able to reassure her with statistics showing that hospice patients actually live longer than patients with the same diagnosis who do not receive hospice care. In my experience many patients lived more days than expected and also experienced greater quality of life during those days. By listening to Mom's fears and providing her with factual information about hospice care I was able to help her choose to be admitted to a home hospice. She bonded with the staff quickly and looked forward to every visit. She set aside special books to give to her nurse that she thought she might enjoy reading and considered her a friend. Mom's last weeks of life were filled with laughter and love as she spent them in her home surrounded by the people and things she loved. Hospice made it possible for her to stay in her home and offered support to me as her caregiver. We navigated her last days together, mother and daughter, and discovered our own special moments of healing and forgiveness that might not have been possible in a different setting. During one of her last lucid days Mom, with tears in her eyes, expressed her thankfulness that she had chosen hospice because 'this has all been wonderful.' She wouldn't have had it be any other way. She wanted everyone to know that hospice eases fear and offers hope and love, which is the perfect way to spend your last moments of life. Wed, 28 Jun 2017 02:00:57 GMT http://thedenverhospice.org/blog/14809/How-I-Helped-My-Mother-Choose-Hospice-Care http://thedenverhospice.org/blog/14812/Why-I-m-Honored-to-be-a-Hospice-CNA blog When you think of the word hospice, what comes to mind? You may feel uncomfortable if you associate it with death. You may feel grateful if someone you love has received hospice care. You may feel fearful if you're not sure what hospice really involves. Say the word to Ruby Staley, and she'll tell you she feels honored. That's because she is a certified nursing assistant (CNA) at The Denver Hospice. CNAs like Ruby provide some of the most personal care ' from bathing and feeding patients to listening to and supporting families. Ruby Staley, Carrie Root and Castro Bonsu work together on the same team at The Denver Hospice Ruby has been a CNA for seven years and part of The Denver Hospice team for two. As part of the northwest team, she travels all over ' from Erie to Golden Gate and Wheat Ridge to Westminster ' visiting between four and nine patients a day in assisted living facilities, private homes and skilled nursing facilities. Ruby is there during some of the most intimate and oftentimes embarrassing moments of a patient's life. She is also there for some of the most difficult and heartbreaking moments for families. But she remains empathetic and professional. 'It's really just an honor. It's an honor for them to let us in. We are coming in when they're losing a loved one. When a mother is losing her child, or when a husband is losing his wife. It's amazing to be there for them during what could be the hardest time in their life.' Her response to those that react to the word hospice with fear and anxiety? 'Of course I acknowledge that it can be hard. But people don't have to go through it alone. I think the key to doing this job is to figure out a way to break the ice, make them smile, and by the end have them laughing." When asked about the hardest part about her job, she paused for a moment before slowly answering 'When you lose a patient. It never gets easier.' When a patient dies, CNAs often have little time in their busy schedule to grieve. They may have known the patient for a few days or may have been working with them for months. Either way, they were touched by that individual. They grieve quietly and gracefully. Ruby uses driving time between visiting patients to reflect on her emotions. She also focuses on her life outside of work. In her spare time, Ruby likes to ride her motorcycle Losing a patient is hard. Losing a family member is devastating. Ruby is no stranger to this feeling, as her grandmother passed away in care of The Denver Hospice. 'She passed away two years ago this August. I was working at The Denver Hospice at the time, and took a leave of absence to take care of her. It really gave me a new perspective. She was diagnosed with stage four brain cancer and was given 30 to 60 days to live, and sure enough, she passed away within 30 days.' 'That experience helped reassure my family that I am in the right place. I think they questioned my choice of going into hospice. I mean, everyone is scared of death to an extent. So when my kind, gentle grandmother passed, it helped them see that the care she received from our hospice team was critical and important. The work we do matters.' CNAs are the quiet heroes in hospice care. They listen, serve and care. They're truly selfless. Upon being asked about her decision to work in hospice care, Ruby replies, 'Being a CNA for The Denver Hospice is one of the best decisions I have ever made in my life. I couldn't ask for anything better.' Tue, 27 Jun 2017 09:35:02 GMT http://thedenverhospice.org/blog/14812/Why-I-m-Honored-to-be-a-Hospice-CNA http://thedenverhospice.org/blog/14811/Blindsided-by-the-Diagnosis--the-Story-of-Losing-my-Son blog Losing a child is a parent's worst nightmare. Terry Hoag never saw it coming. He had enjoyed a successful career as a human resource executive and, more recently, as an artisan. But no role will ever be more important to him than that of being a father. Alongside his wife, Carolyn, he raised two beautiful, bright children ' son Pete and daughter Jessica. But on August 17, 2005, Terry and Carolyn were hit with the worst news imaginable. In 2006, exactly one year after diagnosis and six months following tumor removal surgery, Pete completed a 100-mile bike ride. They were visiting Pete in Denver. 'It was a Wednesday,' he recalls, 'and I was sitting in their living room when Pete walked in, threw some MRIs down on the coffee table and said, 'I have a tumor.' It didn't dawn on me that it was cancer. He was just in his early 30s.' Biopsy results received two days later proved the tumor was malignant. 'Pete's degree was in molecular and developmental biology from the University of Colorado in Boulder,' Terry notes, 'so I'm sure he understood better than any of us what was happening. We just kept clinging to hope.' For the next five years, Pete battled valiantly with osteosarcoma, an aggressive bone cancer, but was determined to keep life as normal as possible for those around him. He scheduled his chemo and other appointments in such a way that those at the financial firm where he worked weren't aware what was happening. Only when surgery to remove leg bone became necessary did his coworkers learn of the long struggle. Ultimately, neither the surgery nor clinical-trial drugs could stop the cancer's progression. He passed on September 11, 2010. 'In the beginning,' Terry reflects, 'you pray to God for a miracle. In the end, you pray for an end to their suffering. We didn't know much about The Denver Hospice, but they were able to lessen his pain and brought so much compassion to all of us those last two months. And Pete was able to stay at home.' 'The day Pete passed, the hospice team was just great. They helped us with details, like calling the coroner. They also helped us through some financial matters as part of the follow-up. There are so many things that have to be done at a point where most of feel helpless.' Seven years later, Terry's appreciation for the care they received remains strong, as evidenced by his ongoing support of The Denver Hospice. He continues to inspire others with his art and create pieces in memory of Pete. Nothing will fill the void in his heart, but by focusing on the happy memories he had with his son, and by putting his love and time into art, Terry is able to heal. Fri, 16 Jun 2017 02:47:03 GMT http://thedenverhospice.org/blog/14811/Blindsided-by-the-Diagnosis--the-Story-of-Losing-my-Son http://thedenverhospice.org/blog/14810/34-Rewarding-Years-as-a-Hospice-Nurse blog After 34 years as a nurse with The Denver Hospice, Eileen Howerzyl is retiring. She leaves knowing her work has helped countless families navigate one of life's most challenging passages. She leaves excited about the new adventures ahead. And she leaves deeply grateful to the family who has supported her all along the way. 'When I began in hospice care, my children were small ' from nine to three. All four grew up knowing I might be called away at any time. It was hard for them, and for my husband Jim. But we all knew this was an important thing for me to be doing.' Eileen and her family in 1982 'In those early years,' Eileen continues, 'I worked for Boulder County Hospice and we were involved in a federal demonstration project ' one of only 10 in the nation ' designed to prove hospice care should be covered by Medicare.' She laughs, 'On one of my early resumes, I listed that I didn't want to do elder or psychiatric nursing. And here I've spent my career doing both! Which proves you should never make decisions about what you don't want.' When Eileen joined what is now The Denver Hospice, 'it was small ' we only had about 25 to 35 patients at a time ' and things were pretty loose. At that time, The Hospice of St. John did all the inpatient care and we did the in-home. 'In the old days, we nurses did everything ' regular patient care, helping in billing and all. I'm very thankful that The Denver Hospice has allowed me to serve in various areas.' Eileen on a trip with The Denver Hospice to help people in Tanzania So what does Eileen feel has made her a good hospice nurse? 'I'm a problem-solver by nature,' she says. 'Caring for people and helping them solve problems is my gift, and I find it very rewarding.' 'As an admission nurse, I'm always stepping into an unknown situation. We never know what kind of family or patient we'll be seeing. So walking in and trying to get a sense of that is important. Admissions has a lot of bits and pieces ' the medical history, insurance, medical power of attorney and more paperwork. Then we get to move on to solving the patient piece: What is your biggest concern for today?' 'So often, as I'm leaving, either the patient or a family member will say, 'I was so scared when I knew you were coming. What a relief this has been.' I think that's because part of what we do is simply accept that dying is okay. That how they're feeling is okay. Whatever they want to talk about, we're ready. And we will keep this individual comfortable ' that's one of our skills.' So, after decades of long days and working weekends, Eileen is eager to begin her next chapter. 'I have a skydiving coupon I have to use before the end of July,' she chuckles. International travel is also on the horizon, as her past journeys to Croatia, Italy, Spain, Morocco and India have opened new vistas. In 2008, she was part of The Denver Hospice's mission trip to assist its sister organization in Tanzania. 'And I'll probably do some volunteer nursing, at some point,' Eileen says. Clearly, her caring has come full circle. On her day of retirement Eileen's career is celebrated with Janelle McCallum, President of The Denver Hospice Thu, 15 Jun 2017 08:55:09 GMT http://thedenverhospice.org/blog/14810/34-Rewarding-Years-as-a-Hospice-Nurse http://thedenverhospice.org/blog/14808/From-Experiencing-Loss-to-Giving-Back blog For 12 years, Sheri and Gene were unstoppable. Gene built a successful career as a senior officer at a Fortune 500 company before retiring at age 60. The couple traveled the world's most beautiful wine regions in Italy, Spain, Argentina and France. For their 10th wedding anniversary they enjoyed a trip to South Africa and the special wine region of Stellenbosch. Sheri said their life together was 'truly happy'. But the shocking diagnosis of bile duct cancer, cholangiocarcinoma, in fall of 2014 made their world come to a screeching halt. After months of ongoing treatment, Gene required emergency surgery. At the same time, Sheri had an accidental fall and ruptured her hamstring. Both were in different hospitals when Gene learned that the cancer had spread to his liver and abdomen lining. And the prognosis was terminal. 'I was just in shock,' Sheri said. With barely any time to process what was happening, she didn't contact The Denver Hospice right away, as his doctor suggested. 'It's my one regret.' The hesitation to contact hospice is not unusual. It's a difficult, often disorienting transition from fighting the disease to accepting the reality that the person you love will soon be gone. 'I wish I had called as soon as we knew.' Once Sheri called, The Denver Hospice's interdisciplinary care team"visited their home and assessed Gene and Sheri's needs to create an individualized care plan just for them. This included access to medical equipment, medications and other services. They also had access to a care team -- including a nurse, physician, social worker, spiritual care provider, certified nursing assistants, therapists and volunteers ' to visit their home. They were given moments to lay in bed next to each other, cry together and express their love. In the end, Sheri said 'I was very lucky to be with him. He had his hand on my chest, just looking at me, and I just saw him go away.' The Denver Hospice chaplain had prepared her for that final transition, and in the weeks and months following his beautiful memorial at Denver Botanic Gardens, Sheri found solace in bereavement group classes offered by The Denver Hospice. Ultimately, Sheri's gratitude for the care they received was so great, she wanted to give back. She went through hospice volunteer training and learned how to provide pet therapy to bring special moments of comfort to those at The Denver Hospice's Inpatient Care Center at Lowry. After her difficult journey through loss, Sheri found joy in giving back. The love she shared with Gene was immense and everlasting, and now the love she feels when caring for others is gratifying and therapeutic. Tue, 21 Mar 2017 08:57:07 GMT http://thedenverhospice.org/blog/14808/From-Experiencing-Loss-to-Giving-Back http://thedenverhospice.org/blog/14795/Hello-world- blog Welcome to Jupiter Demos Sites. This is your first post. Edit or delete it, then start blogging! Fri, 17 Mar 2017 02:11:17 GMT http://thedenverhospice.org/blog/14795/Hello-world- http://thedenverhospice.org/blog/14807/Leaving-a-Legacy---Colorado-Mountain-Boardwalk-for-the-Disabled blog Roger West, a recent patient with The Denver Hospice, left a living legacy ' he opened the Colorado wilderness to those with disabilities, their families and caregivers. After his father had lost his ability to walk following surgery, Roger dreamed of building a trail to provide wheelchair access to Colorado's colorful outdoors. He found the perfect place in Park County, Colorado. And he wasn't about to let 9,200 feet of elevation stand in the way. 'Roger's life mantra was to leave no one out,' his wife Byron says, 'and he was both a great builder and a wonderful leader.' Photo credit: Wilderness on Wheels Wilderness on Wheels, a facility located near Kenosha Pass, features a full mile of eight-foot-wide boardwalk as well as fishing ponds, camping sites, huts and cabins. The efforts of more than 3,500 volunteers giving 116,000 hours of time have paid off beautifully, as a recent summer saw more than 1,500 visitors enjoying the wheelchair accessible setting. Byron was one of those early volunteers when she met Roger. It was in 1986, and she remembers 'being pretty amazed at what they were doing.' The couple married the following year. 'Both he and his dad loved the wilderness so much, so he kept asking himself, 'What happens when people are disabled?' Roger felt this place could become a national model for how to preserve the wildness but not leave anyone out of the outdoor experience. And it has. The thing that pleased him most was seeing generations of people ' young kids, parents, grandparents ' fishing together and enjoying nature.' Roger West enjoying Colorado nature Roger passed in November 2016 after a long battle with prostate cancer. The disease had progressed from normal to stage 4 in just six months. 'He left at peace and ready to move on,' Byron states, adding that the decision to call on The Denver Hospice was instrumental in helping them to accept the situation. 'The hospice team got involved in July, shortly after Roger became unable to get out of bed. It was difficult. But they understood that what he wanted most was to be at home, and they helped make that happen. Overall, it was very positive. I learned a lot from them about where Roger was in the process, what he could and could not do, and what was likely to happen when. They helped me just be there for him'to not worry'to just talk.' 'Gary (Wiebel), the social worker, was here a lot. He intuitively knew what we needed. When Roger passed, our care team was immediately by our side. It was amazing for me to know that everything was taken care of.' 'My goal was to join them in their journey of hospice in a therapeutic, supportive way,' Gary adds. 'To be able to come alongside them, provide individual support and help them share their experience with each other was very powerful. I was so inspired by Roger's vision and motivation. It takes complete determination to build a boardwalk up a mountain so others can experience such a wonderful environment. I am so honored to have cared for him and his family.' Roger West spending time with his granddaughters Thu, 02 Mar 2017 10:21:51 GMT http://thedenverhospice.org/blog/14807/Leaving-a-Legacy---Colorado-Mountain-Boardwalk-for-the-Disabled http://thedenverhospice.org/blog/14806/Denver-Seniors-Receive-Roses-for-Valentine-s-Day blog Valentine's Day will be a bit sweeter for 4,000 Denver-area seniors this year, as volunteers spread across the Denver Metro area handing out roses and smiles to elders. The Denver Hospice has partnered with national wish-granting organization Wish of a Lifetime and Safeway to bring volunteer 'Cupid Crews' to 38 senior living communities, sharing smiles and conversations with those who may feel left out or lonely on Valentine's Day. As seniors age, many lose spouses and loved ones, and the joy of Valentine's Day can diminish. Research from Rutgers University shows that the receipt of flowers decreases depression and encourages companionship in senior citizens. The study also shows that seniors perform higher on everyday memory tasks and experience enriched personal memories in the presence of flowers. Safeway donated the roses that will be distributed by 250 volunteers with The Denver Hospice, Safeway, and students from five local schools. 'At The Denver Hospice, we pride ourselves on our passion for caring for our families, patients and community. Handing out roses this Valentine's Day is a great example of how we are big enough to make a difference, but small enough to care,' said Janelle McCallum, President of The Denver Hospice. Follow along on social media with the hashtag #CupidCrew. https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=hf3uAq7wBqs Fri, 10 Feb 2017 02:00:03 GMT http://thedenverhospice.org/blog/14806/Denver-Seniors-Receive-Roses-for-Valentine-s-Day http://thedenverhospice.org/blog/14805/Looking-Forward-Together-in-2017 blog January is a time to reflect on the past year and anticipate opportunities ahead. It's a time to celebrate success and set goals. But as we look back on our success, it would be misleading to say we did it all on our own. Our 2016 accomplishments would not have been made possible without your support. Serving families and patients from the beginning of uncertainty to the end of life's journey is no small feat ' it requires collaboration, resilience, and shared belief in the mission to encircle those facing advanced illness with unprecedented levels of comfort, compassion, and expertise. So, with that, we thank you ' our community, our partners, our advocates and our friends, for helping us reach new highs. Here were some of our best achievements in 2016: 2016 HHCAHPS Honors Award"| Optio Health Services received this prestigious award, recognizing agencies that provide high quality care as measured from the patient's point of view Best Non-Profit | Named Best Non-Profit in ColoradoBiz magazine's Best of Colorado Business Choice Awards Volunteers | Our 450 volunteers dedicated 20,500 hours of service to our families, patients, and community Valentine's Day Rose Delivery with Wish of a Lifetime | Volunteers surprised 4,000 Denver metro seniors with roses on Valentine's Day Honoring our Veterans | Served more than"800 military veterans in our care and honored more than 150 veterans in local events Being Mortal Project | A public awareness campaign on the importance of talking about end-of-life preferences and goals with loved ones and medical professionals Colorado Gives Day | You helped us raise $96,000 to support unfunded hospice and palliative care services for families and patients The MASK Project | You helped us raise $275,000 from The MASK Project art"auction and luncheon, to support our mission And let's not forget about looking forward! We're more focused than ever on delivering high-quality, compassionate care, resources, and expertise. Our commitment to you: Caring Options: We are your go-to resource for all serious illness care. Caring Answers: Open arms and open access for every family and patient. Caring Experiences: What matters to you matters to us. Thu, 12 Jan 2017 09:09:54 GMT http://thedenverhospice.org/blog/14805/Looking-Forward-Together-in-2017 http://thedenverhospice.org/blog/14804/I-Became-Best-Friends-with-a-Hospice-Patient blog Sitting in her wheelchair, Florence smiles up at Felicia as she carefully paints Florence's nails with shimmering gold polish. Felicia then gently applies a light coat of lipstick to finish"the look. Florence Grant is a 94-year-old, non-verbal woman without any family in the area. In the"care of The Denver Hospice, she was introduced to Felicia Kile, a volunteer. Eight months ago they were strangers. Today they are best friends. 'The first time I meet a , I'm always a bit nervous. Before I walked into Florence's room, I said a prayer and took a deep breath. She immediately gave me a big smile, and I knew that this felt right,' said Felicia. 'I tell Florence that we're BFF's,' Felicia jokes. Holding Florence's fragile hands in her own, she then went on to explain just how deep their connection runs. Felicia sits with Florence during a holiday party at an assisted living community. 'Although Florence is, for the most part, non-verbal, and although she has dementia, she understands much of the time. We have our own language. In life, you meet many people that touch your heart, but not many" touch your soul. Florence has become my dear friend"and"has been a beautiful, unexpected blessing in my life. I love her.' Felicia Kile has been volunteering with The Denver Hospice for six years. This is the first year that she has volunteered with patients. Visiting Florence twice a week for the last eight months, Felicia bonded with her new friend "over television and nail polish, like two companions"who have known each other for years. They take walks outside, browse through photo albums and even pray together. Florence's room is filled with her paintings, photographs and meaningful antiques. Each week Felicia gets a glimpse into Florence's past. Raised in Wenatchee, Washington, she moved to Denver in her 20s, where she met her husband of 34 years. She has two stepchildren and numerous grandchildren and great grandchildren. While her family cares for her from afar, Felicia has become"Florence's family nearby. So of all of the volunteer opportunities out there, why did Felicia choose this? Because she comes from a place of empathy and understanding. Felicia lost her dear friend, who was cared for by The Denver Hospice. She also lost her beloved mother. Through these difficult experiences, she saw the positive impact that hospice care can have. 'The experience can be spiritual and beautiful. And the reward of volunteering for hospice is so much greater than the fear.' Felicia also praises The Denver Hospice team that cares for"Florence. Felicia holds Florence's hand during an interview. 'Her CNA and social worker are always there to answer questions and concerns when it comes to Florence. They are just a quick text message away.' Her advice for those considering volunteering for The Denver Hospice? 'Do it. This not-for-profit organization has a wide variety of volunteering opportunities, even beyond visiting patients and families. You"will feel valued. It's worth it.' To learn more about volunteering for The Denver Hospice, please visit"https://thedenverhospice.org/get-involved/volunteer-denver-hospice/. Thu, 22 Dec 2016 08:33:39 GMT http://thedenverhospice.org/blog/14804/I-Became-Best-Friends-with-a-Hospice-Patient http://thedenverhospice.org/blog/14803/Susan-Langley--The-Woman-Who-Moved-Mountains blog If you've come across Susan Langley in your lifetime, you wouldn't forget her. Or, as she likes to put it, 'My voice will be in your head." Having worked at The Denver Hospice for 22 years, Susan is a self-taught expert in the community. During her tenure, she worked in"various departments, served on committees, influenced policy and positively affected"many lives. She's moved mountains. As accomplished as she is, Susan is humble. And, as she nears her retirement at year-end 2016, Susan asked that The Denver Hospice not hold"a celebration that would put her at the center of attention. But she did accept the opportunity to offer her hospice story. Where it all began From"the 1970s through the early 1990s, Susan worked in healthcare, learning the ins and outs of administrative and Certified Nurse Assistant work. A pivotal experience in her life and career was when her sister fell ill with breast cancer. Susan moved to Denver to become her sister's primary caregiver. Shewas with her sister every step of the way in her battle against cancer '"from uncertainty at the beginning to the end of her beloved sister's life. Shortly after, in 1993, Susan applied for a job with The Denver Hospice and began her work at The Hospice Inpatient Care Center in Aurora. While some were hesitant to offer her the position because of her recent loss, Janelle McCallum, now President of The Denver Hospice, embraced Susan"with open arms. 'Janelle was my champion,' said Susan. 'She decided I was ready. I owe it all to Janelle.' How far she's come From CNA to Inpatient Administrative Assistant to Patient Benefit Advisor doing discharge planning and admission assistant work on the side, Susan's hunger for knowledge kept her climbing up her personal career ladder. Susan taught herself about the complex"world of Medicaid reimbursement, quickly"becoming the go-to person at The Denver Hospice for any and all questions regarding this important healthcare benefit for the poor and near-poor. Susan, in fact, became a vital resource for healthcare administrators and Medicaid officials charged with implementing and overseeing the program across Colorado. . Where she is now On the cusp of retirement, Susan is closing her career as a Patient Navigator. After completing a program with the Colorado Patient Navigator Training Collaborative, she was charged with launching a patient navigator function for the Optio Palliative Care team. Her many accomplishments When asked what her greatest accomplishment has been, Susan was stumped. She served as both co-chair and chair of the Ethics Committee at The Denver Hospice. She was a member of the Long Term Care Advisory Board, a committee of the Colorado Department of Health Care Policy and Financing. She was awarded the Spirit of Hospice Award in 2007 at The Denver Hospice and also awarded Employee of the Season. She helped write, revise and implement any number of"rules and regulations about Long Term Care and Medicaid for hospice patients. She helped develop the Children with Life Limiting Waiver (CLLI). She served as vice-chair on the Haley House Board of Directors. Yet, humble as ever, she could not pick her proudest moment. 'It has always been an honor to be in the presence of people going through their end-of-life journey. I believe in The Denver Hospice mission and I try to live it every day. Every patient and family I touch, I do my best to exemplify that mission,' said Susan. 'My intention was always to give back. I am fortunate to have been able to care for the vulnerable population. I'm rich with the meaningfulness of all of these years. I can still see people's faces, their families, their heartbreak and their joys. It's a privilege to have shared their journey.' Her farewell to her peers 'Please continue your compassionate work and service. It has been an honor to be part of The Denver Hospice and Optio Palliative Care team. Thank you kindly.' Fri, 16 Dec 2016 03:05:32 GMT http://thedenverhospice.org/blog/14803/Susan-Langley--The-Woman-Who-Moved-Mountains http://thedenverhospice.org/blog/14802/Colorado-Gives-Day-Just-Got-Better blog The Denver Hospice is the grateful recipient of a challenge gift from New West Physicians! New West Physicians has generously pledged to donate $45,000 to The Denver Hospice on Colorado Gives Day and has challenged our supporters to match their gift to help The Denver Hospice reach a goal of $90,000. It is not hard to understand why New West Physicians and The Denver Hospice have shared a longstanding and heartfelt collaboration. Built on similar core values, both organizations are committed to a team approach to healthcare, ensuring excellent service and personalized care for patients and their families. For the last four years, New West Physicians has made a gift to The Denver Hospice for Colorado Gives Day so"their gift"could be leveraged to raise even more money. The donations we receive help ensure that we continue to provide the best hospice and palliative care for all that are in need within our nine-county service area. "The Denver Hospice does a great job in providing hospice care and grief services for individuals and their families. We are fortunate to have such a wonderful resource in the community. It is our hope that this gift challenges other organizations to support The Denver Hospice," said New West Physicians CEO"Ruth Benton. New West Physicians has generously supported The Denver Hospice for more than eight years. They have sponsored our top fundraising events ' Heart of Hospice and The MASK Project ' and they also"donated $100,000 in 2010 to support our vision for the Inpatient Care Center"at Lowry. Thank you, New West Physicians for your commitment to the community you serve, and your philanthropic support of The Denver Hospice. Are you up for the challenge? To schedule your Colorado Gives Day gift now, visit"bit.ly/TDHCOGIVES. Your gift on December 6 will be enhanced by the Colorado Gives Day Incentive from Community First Foundation and FirstBank. https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=2HJaGJOv2Po&width=640&height=390&modestbranding=1 Tue, 29 Nov 2016 02:00:59 GMT http://thedenverhospice.org/blog/14802/Colorado-Gives-Day-Just-Got-Better http://thedenverhospice.org/blog/14801/Godspeed--Scott-Carpenter blog Col. John Glenn ended his eulogy for fellow astronaut Scott Carpenter with a phrase"by quoting"Carpenter's own 1962 benediction for Glenn as he entered space aboard Friendship 7. On April 9, 1959, NASA introduced its first astronaut class the Mercury 7. Scott Carpenter can be seen at the front right. 'Godspeed.' A Navy pilot who served in the Korean War, Scott was a pioneer of modern exploration. An astronaut and an aquanaut, he was the first person to penetrate both inner and outer space. Scott was selected in 1959"as one of the original seven Mercury Astronauts. He served as backup pilot for John Glenn during the preparation for America's first manned orbital space flight in February 1962 and flew the second American manned orbital flight on May 24, 1962. He piloted his Aurora 7 spacecraft through three orbits around"the Earth. In 1965, Scott participated in the Navy's Man-in-the-Sea Project as an Aquanaut in the SEALAB II. During the 45-day experiment, Scott spent 30 days living and working in an ocean floor habitat 205 feet deep. 'Satisfying curiosity ranks No. 2 in my book behind conquering a fear,' Carpenter said. After"Scott died at The Denver Hospice Inpatient Care Center at Lowry in 2013, the Civil Air Patrol (CAP) and a chaplain of The Denver Hospice arranged a tribute to honor his extensive military career. https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=eN8lSbwJ6-8&width=640&height=390&iv_load_policy=3&rel=0&showinfo=0 Patty Carpenter accepts her husband's Certificate of Appreciation Recognizing that many who have served in Vietnam have never been honored properly, The Denver Hospice understands that having uniformed personnel present at these tributes is a symbolic gesture and a great comfort to veterans and their families. Unique in the metro Denver area, The Denver Hospice is the only hospice to achieve Level 4 designation, the highest level granted by We Honor Veterans, a partnership of the National Hospice and Palliative Care Organization and the Veterans Administration. This partnership works to ensure each veteran is appreciated and has access to quality end-of-life care. https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=CinM3L0J8lc&width=640&height=390&iv_load_policy=3&rel=0&showinfo=0 Fri, 11 Nov 2016 07:34:23 GMT http://thedenverhospice.org/blog/14801/Godspeed--Scott-Carpenter http://thedenverhospice.org/blog/14800/Discovering-Veteran-s-Accomplishments-61-Years-Later blog When he was drafted into the Army during the Korean War, Cornelius (Neil) Jones Sr. initially reluctant to go overseas. Being the family man that he was, he did not want to leave his wife, who at the time was pregnant with his daughter.'� Neil Jones was drafted into the military in 1951 The Army was not something that Neil was looking forward to, but once he was drafted it made such a difference in his life. 'He has a very caring and giving heart and it spilled over into Korea once he got there. He is often times pictured with children of Korea because he has always been drawn to young people, even to this day,' notes his daughter, Norma. Neil was in the last racially segregated antiaircraft battalion of the United States Army. Born in 1928, this came as a disappointment to Neil. Norma recalls her father saying, 'I just want to see what those guys are like.' Norma and her husband became primary caregivers when Neil became ill. Day and night, Norma and her husband cared for her father in their home. Norma wanted the best for her dad, 'I was set on his life ending at home with me because he needed to be surrounded by all of us that loved him and we would all be there.' It was their family physician that said, 'That's probably not the best thing for you. There are people that are trained to make sure he passes with dignity and that he isn't in pain.' At that time they called in The Denver Hospice. 'Once we did walk in the door of The Denver Hospice, the building, the facility is gorgeous.' Norma continues, 'I think for the first time I was able to sleep when I went home. When you don't know what hospice means, you think hospice means death, but really hospice means quality of life and I have a whole different outlook on what hospice is.' A young Neil Jones sits with his family. It wasn't until a chaplain of The Denver Hospice discovered that Neil had earned two bronze stars and a United Nations distinguished medal that his family really understood that their father was a Korean War hero. 'I didn't do anything much, but I was supposed to get three medals,' Neil told his Denver Hospice chaplain. Thanks to The Denver Hospice, on May 15, 2014, Neil was finally awarded the medals he had earned 61 years earlier. 'All of our lives, it has just been his army stories, some of them were tall tales that were not true, like fish stories, but now we know the real story hero,' said Norma. 'If it wasn't for The Denver Hospice we wouldn't have known that our father was a war hero.' Mon, 07 Nov 2016 11:00:40 GMT http://thedenverhospice.org/blog/14800/Discovering-Veteran-s-Accomplishments-61-Years-Later http://thedenverhospice.org/blog/14799/The-Denver-Hospice-Kicks-Off-CareGiving-2016 blog The Denver Hospice on November 1"kicked off CareGiving 2016 ' a campaign to raise awareness and funding for critical"hospice programs. CareGiving 2016 celebrates"National Hospice and Palliative Care month"in November, and culminates on Colorado Gives Day,"an annual statewide movement on December 6 to celebrate and increase philanthropy through online giving. "CareGiving 2016 provides an opportunity to share our stories and highlight the many ways The Denver Hospice cares for thousands of people each year,""said"Janelle McCallum,"President of The Denver Hospice. "But we could not do it without the support of our community. At The Denver Hospice our care is made possible by your giving." The goal of"CareGiving 2016"is"two-fold: Share stories and helpful information with the community about the wide range of"caring services The Denver Hospice and Optio Health Services provides families and patients. Encourage donations to our not-for-profit organization on Colorado Gives Day. All donations made to The Denver Hospice on Colorado Gives Day"will"be maximized"though the Incentive Fund, increasing"the dollar value of every gift. Proceeds will support hospice"and palliative care services,"as well as"critical community programs"including"support for veterans, grief counseling for children, pet therapy for patients and more. The variety of services The Denver Hospice offers helps to create better end-of-life experiences for Coloradans. 'When I was introduced to The Denver Hospice, I was not aware of the broader care and coordination services they offer,' said"Joan Alexander, whose mother was cared for by The Denver Hospice. 'Providing mom with those additional services helped us spend quality time with her. They helped remove much of the stress from the situation. Thanks to The Denver Hospice, Mom's passing was calm, pain-free and easier for us to face." To schedule your Colorado Gives Day gift now, visit bit.ly/TDHCOGIVES."Join the conversation"on Facebook and Twitter"using"the"hashtags #CareGiving2016 and"#HospiceMonth. https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=dn-9MiF_vEc&width=640&height=390&rel=0&showinfo=0 Tue, 01 Nov 2016 01:00:33 GMT http://thedenverhospice.org/blog/14799/The-Denver-Hospice-Kicks-Off-CareGiving-2016 http://thedenverhospice.org/blog/14798/Breast-Cancer-Survivor-Takes-Fear-Out-of-Hospice blog Sue Miller is a survivor. Never mind that she's marked her 82nd birthday and is now in the care of The Denver Hospice. This former model, author and breast cancer survivor could not be more poised or passionate as she discusses her current mission: 'I want to help take the fear out of hospice.' Sue Miller during her modeling career. Sue was a successful model in her mid-30s and had been modeling for more than 20 years when she was diagnosed with breast cancer. 'I had done a photo shoot and got the cover shot. It came out on a Sunday when I was still in the hospital. I remember looking at the magazine in the hospital, and I couldn't believe I was the same person as the one on that cover.' Sue continues, 'At that time, nobody talked about breast cancer. People were still afraid it was contagious. So after my mastectomy, I lost my modeling career. I was mad at the world. One day I walked into a clothing store and the woman asked if I would do a fashion show. I started crying and ran back to my car. As I sat there with tears streaming down my face, I realized I could do something about this. I went back into the store and told her I would do the fashion show, but only if the models were women who had mastectomies. She finally agreed. I found four women who were breast cancer survivors to do it with me.' Sue Miller laughs as she shares her story with The Denver Hospice staff. With a smile on her face, Sue reminisced about the moment she realized this was worth doing. 'After that show, I decided everybody needed to know how good this was. My hope was that it could help people not be so frightened by breast cancer. I asked the Jewish Community Center"if we could use the auditorium and found 15 more women who had mastectomies and said they would do a fashion show. The night of the show, the girls were getting dressed backstage. I was thinking to myself, who is going to come to this? As I'm walking down the stairs, I heard laughter. I peeked around the corner, and saw all of the women laughing about how to get the clothes to fit their chests. I thought to myself, even if no one shows up, that's okay, because these women have found a home. From then on, it just grew into what is now Day of Caring. We hosted our 37th fundraising event this past spring.' That success has its spotlight moment in Sue's book I'm Tougher Than I Look. 'I finally decided it was time to write about how I saw life,' she says. 'It shares my very personal life, but I wanted people to know that you can have childhood abuse and come out of it and be okay. Everybody has to find his or her way, and it wasn't always easy for me." Easy? No. Exciting? Yes. Sue was in her 70s when she earned her Master's in Psychology and interned with The Denver Hospice before opening her private counseling practice. When she became seriously ill last winter, she and her family re-connected with The Denver Hospice, requesting our services and support. Social worker Ginny Eiseman sits with Sue Miller. 'If you mention hospice to someone, they immediately think that you're dying. But the care I get is what's really important. They aren't caring for me because I'm dying, they're caring for me because I'm living. Entering hospice care can bring about some very good things. It is nothing to fear.' Sue drew from her own experience to underscore the point. 'When I came home from the hospital, I was truly dying. I began planning my funeral. It was an awful time. When my doctor examined me, she said she wanted me to get off all my medication and sleep as long as I wanted. I slept for five or six days. One morning I woke up, and it was just amazing. I said to my daughter, 'I want to stay up a while.' From that point on I started to get better. 'I don't know how long I'll survive, but hospice has given me the chance to do things I didn't have the chance to do, like writing stories and looking up my family history. It's given me life. You hear a lot of stories about hospice coming in and how wonderful they are when people are dying, but you don't hear a lot of stories about hospice coming in and helping people while they're living. I think that's what's important.' Social worker Ginny Eiseman added, 'When Sue talks about those first five days with hospice where she was dying, it was really bad. Everyone was just being present and helping each other through it. There is a moment where you just have to face death and take it in. By going to bed those five days, she faced that moment. Her family stayed and I feel that's what hospice does for people ' it allows that space for loved ones to use that time to cherish each other.' Sue believes that 'each of us must accept death as a spiritual thing in our heart.' With the support of The Denver Hospice and her family, she continues to positively affect lives around her and live out her journey. Mon, 31 Oct 2016 05:04:44 GMT http://thedenverhospice.org/blog/14798/Breast-Cancer-Survivor-Takes-Fear-Out-of-Hospice http://thedenverhospice.org/blog/14796/Hospice-Patient-s-Final-Wish-to-See-the-Universe blog It was at last winter's solstice that Sharon Connell had one of her"most cherished"wishes granted: she saw the sun as few on the planet will ever see it. But her view from the snow-edged patio at Denver's Holly Heights Care Center encompassed far more than the muted December sky and the shining golden orb. Sharon was seeing her forever. 'I know I am going to die, soon,' she told a small gathering of new friends and Stacey, her nurse from The Denver Hospice who made Stacey's astronomical adventure possible. 'Once my body is too tired and I'm told 'okay, you've done what you can,' I feel my soul will go off into the Universe. Because I believe our souls are energy, just as the Universe is energy. 'This has always fascinated me,' she continued, struggling to lift a three-inch thick volume titled UNIVERSE: The Definitive Visual Guide from beside her hospice bed and locating a well-read section. 'First there was the Universe series on TV'my grandson loaded that on my iPad so I can have it any time. And then there was Morgan Freeman with Through the Worm Hole." And the Hubble telescope! Oh, the Hubble! I saw those images and thought, 'How can something be that beautiful?'' Although she had been raised Catholic, Sharon noted that her terminal diagnosis has given her a perspective beyond her"traditional faith. 'For me, there is such a sense of comfort in what we have learned about what's out there. When you look up at the stars, that light is millions of years old. The sun'the earth'the moon'and we are part of it!' While Sharon could go on by herself about the Universe, on one special day she had plenty of expert company. Sharon's hospice team had arranged for two visitors from the Lookout Mountain Nature Center'Naturalist/Director Peg Alig and Astronomer/Volunteer Simon Young."Her"visitors"brought a telescope,"one with a lens larger than a dinner plate. Over the next 45 minutes, a mini-astronomy course took place on the wintry patio right at the Holly Heights Care Center,"with Sharon bundled in purple parka, hat and gloves. Peg and Simon explained that it took 8.25 minutes for light to reach earth from the sun. They showed her a photo of the sun taken that day (available each day at www.spaceweather.com) and told her she would be seeing some sunspots, dark spots caused by intense magnetic energy. Sharon"knew all about sunspots, telling her guests that the sunspot activity grows strongest in 11-year cycles. Peering into the telescope and seeing the sun, she shouted, 'That is so unbelievable! Oh, my gosh! And those sunspots'they look like freckles!' The small group around her laughed, too, caught in the joy of an astronomical"dream delivered. Sharon Connell"died in January 2014 and her energy passed into the Universe. Mon, 03 Oct 2016 09:46:18 GMT http://thedenverhospice.org/blog/14796/Hospice-Patient-s-Final-Wish-to-See-the-Universe http://thedenverhospice.org/blog/14797/After-Losing-His-Son-to-Cancer--Father-Pays-It-Forward blog Terry and his wife were visiting their son in Denver when the bad news arrived. 'It was a Wednesday,' he recalls, 'and I was sitting in the living room when Pete walked in, threw some MRIs down on the coffee table and said, 'I have a tumor.' It didn't dawn on me that it was cancer. He was just in his early 30s.' But it was cancer. Biopsy results received two days later proved the tumor was osteosarcoma, an aggressive bone cancer. 'That was August of 2005,' Terry explains. 'Then things just snowballed.' 'Pete's degree was in molecular and developmental biology from the University of Colorado in Boulder,' Terry notes, 'So I'm sure he understood better than any of us what was happening. We just kept clinging to hope.' Pete was determined to keep life as normal as possible for those around him. He scheduled his chemo and other appointments in such a way that his colleagues at work weren't aware of what was happening. Only when surgery to remove his leg became necessary did his coworkers learn of his long struggle with cancer. But neither the surgery nor clinical-trial drugs could stop the cancer's progression. 'In the beginning,' Terry reflects, 'you pray to God for a miracle. In the end, you pray for an end to their suffering. We didn't know much about hospice, but they were able to lessen his pain and brought so much compassion to all of us those last two months. And Pete was able to stay at home.' 'The day Pete passed ' it was September 11 ' the hospice team was just great. They helped us with details, like calling the coroner. They had also helped him through some financial matters prior to his passing. There are so many things that have to be done that most people know nothing about.' Years later, Terry's appreciation for the care his son received remains strong. He dedicates his time to creating art in memory of his son, and giving back to the community. Fri, 30 Sep 2016 09:48:53 GMT http://thedenverhospice.org/blog/14797/After-Losing-His-Son-to-Cancer--Father-Pays-It-Forward http://thedenverhospice.org/blog/14637/After-Losing-His-Son-to-Cancer--Father-Pays-It-Forward blog Terry and his wife were visiting their son in Denver when the bad news arrived. "It was a Wednesday," he recalls, "and I was sitting in the living room when Pete walked in, threw some MRIs down on the coffee table and said, 'I have a tumor.' It didn't dawn on me that it was cancer. He was just in his early 30s." But it was cancer. Biopsy results received two days later proved the tumor was osteosarcoma, an aggressive bone cancer. "That was August of 2005," Terry explains. "Then things just snowballed." "Pete's degree was in molecular and developmental biology from the University of Colorado in Boulder," Terry notes, "So I'm sure he understood better than any of us what was happening. We just kept clinging to hope." Pete was determined to keep life as normal as possible for those around him. He scheduled his chemo and other appointments in such a way that his colleagues at work weren't aware of what was happening. Only when surgery to remove his leg became necessary did his coworkers learn of his long struggle with cancer. But neither the surgery nor clinical-trial drugs could stop the cancer's progression. "In the beginning," Terry reflects, "you pray to God for a miracle. In the end, you pray for an end to their suffering. We didn't know much about hospice, but they were able to lessen his pain and brought so much compassion to all of us those last two months. And Pete was able to stay at home." "The day Pete passed – it was September 11 – the hospice team was just great. They helped us with details, like calling the coroner. They had also helped him through some financial matters prior to his passing. There are so many things that have to be done that most people know nothing about." Years later, Terry's appreciation for the care his son received remains strong. He dedicates his time to creating art in memory of his son, and giving back to the community. Fri, 30 Sep 2016 06:00:00 GMT http://thedenverhospice.org/blog/14637/After-Losing-His-Son-to-Cancer--Father-Pays-It-Forward http://thedenverhospice.org/events/3267/Going-Through-Grief-Group events This is a four-week educational and participatory support group, limited to 8 participants who have experienced a hospice loss at least 3 months out. We start a new group each month and request participants plan to attend all sessions to get the most out of them. We want to provide a safe place for grieving people to discover that they are not alone in their grief and to share support and ideas for coping. Meets on Tuesday from 5-6:30pm at our administrative offices, 8289 E Lowry Blvd., Denver, CO, 80230 Register Participants are asked to join all sessions of the group. This group fills up quickly. Suggested Donation $60 Your tax-deductible donation is appreciated and ensures we can offer these services to everyone in need. Wed, 25 Feb 2026 05:30:25 GMT http://thedenverhospice.org/events/3267/Going-Through-Grief-Group http://thedenverhospice.org/events/3268/Newly-Bereaved-Support-Group events This is a four-week educational and participatory support group, limited to 8 participants who have experienced an anticipatory/hospice loss within the last 3 months. We start a new group each month and request participants plan to attend all sessions to get the most out of them. We want to provide a safe place for grieving people to discover that they are not alone in their grief and to share support and ideas for coping. Meets on Tuesday from 12-1:30pm at our administrative offices, 8289 E Lowry Blvd., Denver, CO, 80230 Register Registration and application are required. Suggested Donation $60 - donation page will populate after registration. Your tax-deductible donation is appreciated and ensures we can offer these services to everyone in need. Wed, 25 Feb 2026 05:31:07 GMT http://thedenverhospice.org/events/3268/Newly-Bereaved-Support-Group http://thedenverhospice.org/events/3269/Going-Through-Grief-Group events This is a four-week educational and participatory support group, limited to 8 participants who have experienced a hospice loss at least 3 months out. We start a new group each month and request participants plan to attend all sessions to get the most out of them. We want to provide a safe place for grieving people to discover that they are not alone in their grief and to share support and ideas for coping. Meets on Tuesday from 5-6:30pm at our administrative offices, 8289 E Lowry Blvd., Denver, CO, 80230 Register Participants are asked to join all sessions of the group. This group fills up quickly. Suggested Donation $60 Your tax-deductible donation is appreciated and ensures we can offer these services to everyone in need. http://thedenverhospice.org/events/3269/Going-Through-Grief-Group http://thedenverhospice.org/events/3205/Candlelight-Remembrance-Ceremonies events Celebrate your loved one at our candlelight remembrance service with a reading of names, photos, shared reflections by those attending (optional) and a candlelight ritual. This event is open to anyone who has recently lost someone in the care of The Denver Hospice. It is an opportunity to celebrate and honor your loved one and connect with others who are coping with loss. Ceremony Information Where: Historic Eisenhower Chapel - Lowry Town Center - 293 Roslyn Street, Denver, CO 80230 (Please park in the lot behind the chapel) Registration is required and will close once capacity for the number of loved ones being remembered has been reached. NOTE: There are no physical or electronic tickets to show to get into this ceremony. The registration application will mention tickets but there are no tickets. When you arrive at the ceremony, please give us the name of the loved one you are remembering. Register Photo of loved one (optional): If you would like a photo (maximum of 3) to be included in the ceremony, please email them to GriefCenter@care4denver.org. Mon, 02 Feb 2026 11:34:41 GMT http://thedenverhospice.org/events/3205/Candlelight-Remembrance-Ceremonies http://thedenverhospice.org/events/3265/Going-Through-Grief-Group events This is a four-week educational and participatory support group, limited to 8 participants who have experienced a hospice loss at least 3 months out. We start a new group each month and request participants plan to attend all sessions to get the most out of them. We want to provide a safe place for grieving people to discover that they are not alone in their grief and to share support and ideas for coping. Meets on Tuesday from 5-6:30pm at our administrative offices, 8289 E Lowry Blvd., Denver, CO, 80230 Register Participants are asked to join all sessions of the group. This group fills up quickly. Suggested Donation $60 Your tax-deductible donation is appreciated and ensures we can offer these services to everyone in need. Wed, 25 Feb 2026 05:30:39 GMT http://thedenverhospice.org/events/3265/Going-Through-Grief-Group http://thedenverhospice.org/events/3266/Newly-Bereaved-Support-Group events This is a four-week educational and participatory support group, limited to 8 participants who have experienced an anticipatory/hospice loss within the last 3 months. We start a new group each month and request participants plan to attend all sessions to get the most out of them. We want to provide a safe place for grieving people to discover that they are not alone in their grief and to share support and ideas for coping. Meets on Tuesday from 12-1:30pm at our administrative offices, 8289 E Lowry Blvd., Denver, CO, 80230 Register Registration and application are required. Suggested Donation $60 - donation page will populate after registration. Your tax-deductible donation is appreciated and ensures we can offer these services to everyone in need. Wed, 25 Feb 2026 05:31:18 GMT http://thedenverhospice.org/events/3266/Newly-Bereaved-Support-Group http://thedenverhospice.org/events/3023/Young-Adult-Grief-Support-Group events A four-week support group for people in their 20's and 30's who have lost a parent or sibling. We will offer a forum for participants to share the challenges they have encountered and the strategies they have developed as a young adult learning to live in a world without this important loved one. We will explore topics like coping with role changes, family re-structuring, changing identity, how to relate to others around us in both personal and work environments, and gathering support from people who "get it." Please allow at least three months from your loss before starting this group. Meets on Tuesday from 5-6:30pm at our administrative offices, 8289 E Lowry Blvd., Denver, CO, 80230 Register Participants are asked to join all sessions of the group. Suggested Donation $60 Your tax-deductible donation is appreciated and ensures we can offer these services to everyone in need. Fri, 19 Dec 2025 02:55:47 GMT http://thedenverhospice.org/events/3023/Young-Adult-Grief-Support-Group http://thedenverhospice.org/events/3022/Creative-Arts-Support-Group events The Creative Arts Support Group is a 6-week support group for anyone who has experienced the loss of a loved one and is interested in exploring creative tools such as collage, painting, drawing and sculpting to work through their grief. Art making provides a strong container for the grief experience and encourages the expression of thoughts and feelings that words cannot capture or convey. No previous art experience or talent is necessary. Group members should allow at least three months from their loss before joining this group. Meets on Friday from 10am-noon at our administrative offices, 8289 E Lowry Blvd., Denver, CO, 80230 Register Participants are asked to join all sessions of the group. Suggested Donation $100 Your tax-deductible donation is appreciated and ensures we can offer these services to everyone in need. Fri, 19 Dec 2025 03:00:07 GMT http://thedenverhospice.org/events/3022/Creative-Arts-Support-Group http://thedenverhospice.org/events/3021/Young-Adult-Creative-Arts-Support-Group events A six-week support group for people in their 20s and 30s who have lost a loved one and are interested in exploring creative tools such as collage, painting, drawing and sculpting to work through their grief. Art making provides a strong container for the grief experience and encourages the expression of thoughts and feelings that words cannot capture or convey. No previous art experience or talent is necessary. Group members should allow at least three months from their loss before joining this group. Meets on Wednesday from 12-1:30pm at our administrative offices, 8289 E Lowry Blvd., Denver, CO, 80230 Register Participants are asked to join all sessions of the group. Suggested Donation $100 Your tax-deductible donation is appreciated and ensures we can offer these services to everyone in need. Fri, 19 Dec 2025 02:59:52 GMT http://thedenverhospice.org/events/3021/Young-Adult-Creative-Arts-Support-Group http://thedenverhospice.org/events/2515/Newly-Bereaved-Support-Group events This is a four-week educational and participatory support group, limited to 8 participants who have experienced an anticipatory/hospice loss within the last 3 months. We start a new group each month and request participants plan to attend all sessions to get the most out of them. We want to provide a safe place for grieving people to discover that they are not alone in their grief and to share support and ideas for coping. Meets on Tuesday from 12-1:30pm at our administrative offices, 8289 E Lowry Blvd., Denver, CO, 80230 Register Registration and application are required. Suggested Donation $60 - donation page will populate after registration. Your tax-deductible donation is appreciated and ensures we can offer these services to everyone in need. Mon, 03 Nov 2025 11:37:31 GMT http://thedenverhospice.org/events/2515/Newly-Bereaved-Support-Group http://thedenverhospice.org/events/2519/Going-Through-Grief-Group events This is a four-week educational and participatory support group, limited to 8 participants who have experienced a hospice loss at least 3 months out. We start a new group each month and request participants plan to attend all sessions to get the most out of them. We want to provide a safe place for grieving people to discover that they are not alone in their grief and to share support and ideas for coping. Meets on Tuesday from 5-6:30pm at our administrative offices, 8289 E Lowry Blvd., Denver, CO, 80230 Register Participants are asked to join all sessions of the group. This group fills up quickly. Suggested Donation $60 Your tax-deductible donation is appreciated and ensures we can offer these services to everyone in need. Mon, 03 Nov 2025 11:42:12 GMT http://thedenverhospice.org/events/2519/Going-Through-Grief-Group