When you or your loved one enters hospice, it’s completely natural to feel several different emotions all at once. Some days may feel like you’re on an emotional rollercoaster, but that’s okay. Your hospice care team will be on your side the entire time, providing physical, emotional, and spiritual support when needed for you and your loved one. 

In this blog, we’re discussing some tips on how to cope with common emotions you and your loved one may feel through the various stages of hospice care. 

Create meaningful moments with your loved one when you’re experiencing sadness

Feelings of sadness, grief, or even isolation may arise while your loved one is receiving hospice care, especially during special occasions. Spending meaningful time with your loved one doing activities they love or reminiscing about fond memories can help you stay connected during this difficult time. 

You might watch a favorite movie together, read a meaningful book, or enjoy any activity that brings them joy. Follow their lead and let them choose whatever activities help them feel connected. Sometimes even your presence is enough to help them feel less alone. Spending time together can bring you and your loved one comfort and peace as you navigate this journey together. 

Visit with friends or family when you’re feeling isolated

Hospice can definitely feel isolating at times, so finding ways for your loved one to stay connected with others is crucial. If they’re feeling up to it, you can always schedule visits with friends and family. Even a short phone call or video chat can help your loved one socialize and spend meaningful time with the people they love. 

As a caregiver, it’s also essential that you find ways to socialize, as it’s easy to get caught up in the daily demands of caring for someone. Your hospice team can connect you with bereavement support groups, so you can talk with someone who’s on a similar journey. 

Finding small ways to stay connected with others can help you feel less alone during this difficult time. 

Lean on the hospice care team for support when you’re feeling overwhelmed 

If you’re ever feeling overwhelmed, you can look to your hospice team to provide support and guidance. When you’re responsible for providing full-time care to someone you love, it takes an emotional toll. The entire team, including nurses, chaplains, and social workers, can share valuable resources with you. For example, if you need help with some tasks, you can ask about volunteer programs or respite care.

Don’t be afraid to reach out to the care team for help because they care about you and your family. They’re there to explain symptoms, walk you through any changes, and make sure you never feel like you’re facing this process alone. 

Ask for clarification when you’re feeling fear or uncertainty 

If you’re ever feeling fear or uncertainty, turn to the care team for assistance. Your nurses and providers can answer any questions about your loved one’s care, talk through the care plan, and ease any concerns you may have.

If your loved one’s fears stem from spiritually related uncertainties, their hospice team can arrange for a meeting with the chaplain or any clergy members from your loved one’s faith. Hospice offers spiritual support regardless of beliefs and values, so you have someone to turn to during this challenging journey. 

Acknowledging your fears can be difficult, but reaching out for help and reassurance is what the team is here for. 

Northern Illinois Hospice is here to provide compassionate end-of-life care

At Northern Illinois Hospice, we understand that every hospice journey is unique, which is why each care plan is tailored to the person’s goals and wishes. We take that information and create a team of individuals that can provide compassionate end-of-life care for your loved one. 

As the first hospice provider in the region, Northern Illinois Hospice has been helping people transition to hospice care for more than 45 years. Our team provides compassionate end-of-life care to individuals with life-limiting illnesses.

We honor patients and their wishes by providing specialized care that treats the person, not the disease. We offer a wide range of palliative and hospice care to improve your loved one’s quality of life in their final months.

Our experienced team of healthcare professionals, social workers, and volunteers is here to ensure your loved one’s comfort and support.

Get even more support with The Reading Room

Because hospice care offers so many services and benefits to patients, families, and providers, it can sometimes feel overwhelming to navigate. That’s why we created The Reading Room.

The Reading Room is a special place where people can learn and grow in their understanding of hospice and palliative care, anytime and anywhere. It’s like having a whole library in the palm of your hand or with a click of your mouse. With dozens of articles and helpful how-to videos in both English and Spanish, The Reading Room can serve as a helpful guide. 

To learn more about our palliative or hospice services or how we can help you navigate end-of-life care for your loved ones, call us today at (815) 398-0500.