Unsung Heroes of Hospice Care
Hospice care brings profound changes to the lives of patients and families. For family caregivers, it can be a time of worry and work. It’s a labor most caregivers willingly choose as a gift to their loved ones. Thankfully, family caregivers don’t have to labor alone. Hospice aides are hands-on support to help with the tasks of daily living.Hospice aides help with practical needs, including medications, medical equipment, light housekeeping and feeding. They’re also available for emotional support. Sometimes sitting with patients and listening to stories can be enough.
Hospice aides are the eyes, ears, and hands of the hospice care team. Because they have significant personal contact with patients, they document and report physical and emotional needs to the team. That team including a doctor, nurses, social worker, chaplain, bereavement coordinator and volunteers.
Aides work under the direct supervision of the registered nurse case manager. The team follows a plan of care that is continually updated to meet the changing needs of patients and caregivers.
