Source: SeriousIllness.org

We usually associate the word “vaccine” with children. But vaccines play an important role in disease prevention for seniors, too. Because aging weakens the immune system, even common infections can cause serious problems for those over age 65.
The annual flu shot

The flu takes a heavy toll on aging bodies. Hospitalization rates for seniors surge during flu season. Really, what we call “the flu” is a constantly changing virus. Because there’s a new type circulating each winter, an annual shot is essential. That is true for your aging relative, but also recommended for any adult caring for a frail elder. For greatest effect, get the shot sometime in the October to December time frame.

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For more information about Hospice & Palliative CareCenter, visit http://www.hospicecarecenter.org!

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Time off from caregiving is precious. But after a break, many family caregivers find they don’t feel as refreshed as they hoped they would.

New research provides insights about how to get the most from a respite break.

Common respite mistakes

- Unplanned time. It may sound good to “have no plans.” But that can backfire if you end up simply watching TV. You may feel you “wasted” your time.

- Routine tasks. Doubtless, there are chores and tasks to be done. If completing a task will genuinely feel satisfying, great. But you may feel cheated if you use your respite to do “more of the same.”

- Obligations. Watch out for self-imposed “shoulds.” Such as, “I should go see my niece in that play.” If theater is not your thing, you’ll end up frustrated instead of rejuvenated.

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For more information about Hospice & Palliative CareCenter, visit http://www.hospicecarecenter.org!

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When you are caring for a relative, it seems obvious that health care providers would readily answer your questions. But health professionals and health plans are not permitted to freely give information. This can interfere with your ability to help your loved one follow doctor’s orders or figure out insurance billing.

Rules about confidentiality

You’ve probably heard the term “HIPAA.”

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For more information about Hospice & Palliative CareCenter, visit http://www.hospicecarecenter.org!

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In some communities, nearly 60% of all patients and families facing the challenges of end-of-life receive loving support and compassionate care from a hospice organization. In our community, approximately 40% of patients and families are receiving our care.

Our goal is to help as many patients and families as possible. We know we can do more. With your voice, we can spread the word. By addressing commonly asked questions, we can raise awareness. Advocating together, we can reach more people.

There are many ways you can help Hospice & Palliative CareCenter, but simply spreading the word is one of the most valuable. You could help someone have a life-enriching experience because of the knowledge you share.

In whatever way you help, whether it’s volunteering, participating in a hospice event, or making a gift, simply telling a friend could be the most valuable way you can support us and, more importantly, make a life-changing difference for a friend in need.

No one should face end of life alone. Together we can do more. When people understand the benefits of our Programs and Services, we will reach 60% in our community.

With Hope and Appreciation,

Your Friends at Hospice & Palliative CareCenter

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Source: Journalnow.com
By PAUL GARBER

Start with a blank piece of paper and a pencil.

Now think of the kind of health-care system you’d like to have. Design it from scratch assuming you don’t know what kind of family you’d be born into — rich or poor, black or white, rural or urban.

What would it look like? Probably nothing like the system we currently have, said Diane Meier, an internationally known expert on palliative care.

Meier said the health-care system in the United States is broken and needs to be fixed from the bottom up. She urged people to work together and raise their voices to demand change.

“The public is very powerful, and it’s a sleeping giant,” she said. “Create a movement that would create change.”

Meier said from what she’s heard from her patients and during her travels, people want a health-care system in which doctors have more time to spend with their patients, in which they will listen better to their patients’ concerns, and if they get sick will come to their homes rather than having them shuttle between hospitals and doctors offices.

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For more information about Hospice & Palliative CareCenter, contact Ann Gauthreaux, public relations director, at 336-768-3972, or see Hospice’s website at http://www.hospicecarecenter.org!

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What is Palliative Care?

Palliative care is medical care focused on relief of pain, symptoms, and stress of serious illness – whatever the diagnosis. Palliative care is provided simultaneously with all other medical treatments.

How can the Palliative Care team help me and my family?

When you are on the front lines of an illness, you need answers, relief, expertise, and support. Our team of board-certified physicians, nurse practitioners, and licensed counselors makes sure that all your concerns are addressed.

For more, Visit us at: http://hospicecarecenter.org!

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