Archive for October, 2011

Celebrate Hospice Month

Houston Hospice Volunteer Pam Poole

 The month of November has many different observances. From Native American Heritage to Pancreatic Cancer Awareness, the ways to honor  November are endless. We are choosing this month to honor Hospice and those who dedicate and provide others with exceptional hospice care.   

  Each November, the National Association for Home Care & Hospice (NAHC)celebrates National Home Care Month, National Hospice Month and Home Care Aide Week to honor health care administrators, nurses, clinicians, therapists, aides, homemakers, chore workers and companions who make a remarkable difference in the lives of patients and their families.[1] This year’s theme for hospice month is, “Loving Care at Home When You Need It Most.” This theme will focus on caregivers who take on the responsibility and stress in assuring their loved one is comfortable.

One way to honor Hospice Month is to honor a caretaker. Being a caregiver is one of the most difficult tasks a person will ever have to face. Caretaking can last as short as weeks and as long as many years. Caretakers must re-organize their priorities in order to give their loved one the best care they can. The added stress can lead to neglecting their spouse, children, job and even themselves. Caretakers never have a moment of peace because if something happens to their loved one off their watch, then they feel guilty.

If you know someone who is a caretaker be sure to take this month to honor them in a special way. It doesn’t have to be something extraordinary, but something little. A card encouraging them to keep up the good work can mean wonders to a stressed out caretaker. Offering a set of ears for listening or a shoulder to cry on can show support and provide comfort to caretakers.

Another way to honor Hospice Month is to volunteer at a local hospice. Most hospices need help with a variety of tasks from visiting with patients to helping out with administrative work. At Houston Hospice we have volunteers who provide our patients with musical and pet therapy as well as volunteers who water our plants. Remember, even the smallest gesture can make the biggest difference.

And finally, one of the greatest ways to participate in Hospice Month is to spread the word and educate others about hospice care. This can be done by talking to friends and families about how hospice affects you. Spreading knowledge and sharing insight of your own hospice views and experiences can change a life unexpectedly. 

Whether it’s a day, a week, or the whole month, remember to acknowledge that one of the many observances of November is hospice care. Showing support and pride will not cost you a thing. If you are proud November honors hospice, wear a burgundy ribbon to represent all who dedicate their services to hospice and caretaking.

[1] National Association for Home Care and Hospice

Share this:
Share this page via Email Share this page via Stumble Upon Share this page via Digg this Share this page via Facebook Share this page via Twitter