A common question about Hospice care is, “Where can I receive Hospice services?” The answer is simple. Anywhere. Hospice services can be delivered in your home, in the home of your loved one, in a nursing home, in a personal care home, in the hospital, and even in a camper. As a general rule, we meet the patient where they are. Wherever they live, whatever their situation we do our best to provide care to them in that place.
If you’re wondering what the “best” option is, there is no right answer. However, most Hospice staff would say that besides being at home the next best thing is a Hospice Center. These independently owned and operated centers are a true blessing to those who are able to secure a bed. They’re usually small and consist of only a few beds, allowing each patient to receive 1:1 attention. The facility is typically staffed 24/7 with nurses seeing patients daily to administer medications and make necessary adjustments. Typically, family is welcome to visit or stay as little or as often as they’d like and be as involved in the care of their loved one in whatever way they prefer. These options make for a customizable experience that is topped off with staff who aim to fulfill last wishes and provide an experience that is memorable for all involved.
Unfortunately, there are too few of these wonderful centers and so most families don’t ever have the opportunity to experience their care. For this reason, the Hospice community celebrates every opening knowing that more and more families will be helped.
In January of 2023, A Hospice center in Portland, Oregon re-opened its doors after financial difficulties forced its closure 3 years ago. The facility is completely upgraded with beautiful spaces throughout and will provide a home-like experience with 24/7 care. If you’d like to read more about the beautiful new facility, check out the Friends of Hopewell House page, created by those who raised millions of dollars in order to bring it back to the community.
It is my hope that with each opening, communities will be inspired and more and more independent facilities will be able to open their doors throughout the country, giving access to this priceless service to all those who need it.