RESOURCES FOR AGING WELL
SeniorsBlueBook.com
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and family unable to cope. Continuous care is typically reserved for end of life or other crises that requires a constant presence by a nurse or care team. 24/7 ADMISSIONS – If a patient qualifies for hospice care, they should be admitted as early as the family requests. Many agencies admit patients to hospice,24/7, evenings weekends, and holidays. AROMATHERAPY – Uses plant materials and aromatic plant oils, including essential oils, and other aromatic compounds for the purpose of altering one’s mood, cognitive, psychological or physical well-being. This is not reimbursed by Medicare. GRIEF SUPPORT GROUPS – Grief is the normal and universal reaction humans have to the loss of those they love. When your loved one passes, you may go through a period of bereavement and experience grief. Many provide Grief Groups that meet and address issues of grief in a supportive group setting. INDIGENT PATIENTS – Does the hospice accept non funded or indigent patients? This is usually on a case by case basis and at the determination of the hospice company. Many have a non-profit organization that can help support the care of non-covered patients.
IN-PATIENT CARE – These hospices offer full hospice services in their on-campus unit or building. The patient moves into the inpatient care facility to receive their hospice services rather than in the patients’ home setting.
HOSPICE CARE
Hospice Care Definitions
LICENSED MASSAGE THERAPY – Used as a method for relaxation to alleviate stress, anxiety and pain with a light hands-on approach, as well as providing an alternative to those who can’t take medication or prefer not to, massage therapy has become essential in hospice care. This is not reimbursed by Medicare. MUSIC THERAPY – Music Therapy is an established healthcare profession that uses music to address physical, emotional, cognitive, and social needs of individuals”. A music therapist creates goals and objectives for their patients and uses music activities and music experiences (listening, composition, improvisation, or playing/singing a familiar song) in order to achieve those goals. This is not reimbursed by Medicare. PAIN PUMPS AVAILABLE – Many patients have their symptoms controlled through oral medications. Some situations require a pain pump where medications are administered through an IV pump. If this is the situation, inquire with the hospice RN Continued on page 126 Indicates website link on seniorsbluebook.com 125
