Services Offered by Hospice Care in Thousand Oaks, California

Posted by Gale Freeman on May 28th, 2023

Hospice care is a form of palliative care available only to terminally ill patients who have chosen to forgo additional curative treatments. This form of care involves receiving support from a comprehensive team of end-of-life caregivers, including doctors, nurses, health aides, social workers, and even members of the clergy. Read on to find out what types of services are available through Hospice Care in Thousand Oaks, California.

Nursing Services

Each hospice patient is assigned an individual case manager. These nurses visit one to three times per week, but patients and caregivers also have access to a 24/7 on-call nursing team to help provide for their needs.

Physician Care

In most cases, the hospice patient's regular physician continues to provide care. This medical professional works directly with the hospice nurse case manager, medical director, and other professionals to ensure that the patient's palliative needs are met.

Medical Social Services

Each hospice patient is also assigned a social worker. This person helps to ensure that the patient's emotional and social needs are being met throughout their time in the program.

Counseling Services

Counseling services are available to both patients and their loved ones and come in many forms. Some patients and their loved ones need dietary counseling, while others want spiritual support. Bereavement counseling is also available for caregivers and other loved ones after the patient's death.

Home-Health Aides

Home health aides are usually available to visit two to three times per week. They help patients with non-medical personal care and the activities of daily living such as bathing and dressing.

Medication and Medical Equipment Provision

Patients in hospice care don't usually have to worry about paying for medications related to their diagnoses or those required to control symptoms such as pain. Hospice provides not just the medications but also essential medical equipment required to provide a safe and comfortable environment at home. Examples of medical equipment could include large items like hospital beds and wheelchairs or supplies such as adult diapers, latex gloves, or bandages.

Respite Care

Respite care is a form of short-term assistance that can help family caregivers avoid burnout. Professional aides usually provide respite care.

Therapist Services

In some cases, hospice can provide physical, occupational, and speech or language therapy. These services can help a patient maintain their dignity and quality of life.

Additional Assistance

Organizations such as Generation Hospice Care sometimes work with other volunteer or charity programs to offer additional assistance, as well. The exact services offered will vary depending on the patient's needs.

Is It Time to Start Hospice Care?

Before searching for hospice care near me, patients should visit their primary care physicians and request information about the program and whether they are eligible. Hospice care is only available to terminally ill patients with six months or less to live, and only the patient's doctor can make the final call about eligibility.