When we hear the term “hospice,” we often feel fear and discomfort. Many individuals find themselves hesitant to seek hospice care, even when they could benefit from additional support. This is where programs like Transitions come into play. Transition care provides crucial assistance for individuals who may not be ready for hospice but still require support and resources to manage their health conditions effectively.
Transitions Isn’t Hospice
It’s important to understand that Transitions is different from hospice care. While hospice is designed for those in need of comfort care at the end of life, Transitions aims to offer support for those individuals with life-limiting illnesses who continue to seek curative care or who have a prognosis of greater than six months.
“The services offered through Hospice of Redmond are not one-size-fits-all, and there are other options available for those who may not be ready for hospice,” said Paul, a CNA and one of Hospice of Redmond’s Transitions Coordinators. “But when medical care is needed, we can add it through our palliative care program.”
However, due to the misconception that “Transitions” is synonymous with hospice, many individuals delay accessing the valuable support and resources that the program offers for free.
One of Transitions’ primary aspects is helping individuals navigate the complexities of their health conditions while maximizing the benefits available to them. This includes providing non-medical assistance, such as acquiring necessary medical equipment and navigating insurance coverage, to ensure that individuals utilize all the benefits they are entitled to receive.
“Many veterans are unaware of how many resources and benefits are available to them,” said Angela, CNA and another of Hospice of Redmond’s Transitions Coordinators. “We help bridge this gap by providing vital support and information so they can receive the care and support needed to maximize their quality of life.”
Living Better
Another benefit of accessing Transitions care early is improving quality of life.
“Starting Transitions early can help improve a person’s quality of life,” said Angela. “This is because when a client gets the support they need, many of the stressors and hardships they’ve been experiencing go away.”
Activities of Daily Living
Basic needs often go unmet or are minimalized when support is scarce. Food is a big concern for many people with life-limiting illnesses.
“Often due to their illness, people stop being able to prepare food for themselves and go without,” said Paul. “Transitions can link them to support to ensure they get wholesome food daily.”
Another significant issue many people with life-limiting illnesses face is called activities of daily living, which include general hygiene. While many healthy people take the transformational power of a shower for granted, for those with a terminal illness, it can be a day changer.
“If, during the admission process, we find that someone is only showering once a week or can’t clip their toenails, caregiving can be a wonderful option to make them feel better,” said Angela.
Financial Resources are Available Through Transitions
Financial constraints are a common concern for many people, especially when seeking specialized care. Resources available through the Transitions program help identify and access various forms of financial assistance, such as Oregon Project Independence and other local support programs the average person is unaware of. By leveraging these resources, individuals can alleviate financial burdens and focus on receiving the care they require.
Hospice of Redmond’s Transitions program is a lifeline for individuals facing life-limiting illnesses, offering much-needed support, comfort, and practical assistance.
The overarching message is clear: The Transitions program is not something to fear; it’s about providing essential support and care for those who need it the most so they can enjoy a better quality of life.
Paul says best: “We really just want to help people.”