Hospice Care

Access to hospice care has significantly changed and improved in our community since Mama's cancer illness 23 years ago. Back then, the closest hospice agency was 90 miles away in Macon or Savannah, but an office in Macon took her case and helped us by contracting some in-home services with local nursing agencies, and hospice staff visited our home by commuting from either Macon or Dublin. They were dedicated and effective. Mama spent her final two months at home in peaceful dignity where she wanted to be.

By late 2017, our family realized Dad needed hospice help too, but now, our community has multiple agencies, including an in-patient facility for families who need or prefer that level of care. As Dad became less functional and needed more oversight and help for everything, I began to have doubts that he could stay and finish his life at home, but that changed when he developed a problem hernia. After trips to the ER, and consultations with his primary care doctor and a surgeon, Dad was not a candidate for surgery, and in-home hospice care would help us meet his needs and keep him comfortable.

Dad's doctor made the referral to Solace Hospice. And immediately, they contacted us and began the process to admit Dad into their care. We received in-home visits from the administrator, RN, case worker, and chaplain. Hospice met Dad's and our needs. The RN began on a twice weekly schedule, but when Dad suddenly declined and began his sleep week, the RN attended to him once or twice daily and was on-call and willing to visit for whatever we needed. When Dad left us, Dad's nurse arrived within 30 minutes after my late-evening call to help us take the next step to arrange funeral services.

All of this allowed Dad to finish at home, where he wanted to be, and to finish well and with dignity. Some families may prefer or need the in-patient facility to best serve their needs, and that is fine. But at-home care is possible too.

For me, hospice care was a breath of fresh air. We averted the nursing home, and I know Dad wanted that more than anything. But we did need professional help for Dad's bathing, medical check-ups, and managing his hernia/pain situation. When we needed a wheel chair, a bed, medicine, or basic supplies, all of it was provided immediately.

Whatever your family situation, hospice is not a death sentence. It enhances end-of-life care and promotes the dignity of human life. I encourage you to take advantage of the potential benefits to your loved one and your family.