End of Life
Ideally we would all want to end our lives at home, without pain or discomfort surrounded by our loved ones. Unfortunately, that is not always possible, sometimes the level of care and support needed cannot be delivered at home.
When this happens we need to be in a hospice, Residential Care Home or Care Home with Nursing. These specialist places provide dignified care that is full of compassion, love and support. Which is exactly what the resident and their families and friends need during this difficult time.
What you need to consider for End of Life Care
How you feel about the care home
Many care organisations will provide End of Life Care but like much else in care, it is all about how you feel. When looking for End of Life Care ensure you visit at least three care homes. Try and get a sense of how happy and caring the staff are and how relaxed the other residents are. Speak to the manager and get an understanding of what they consider dignified palliative care to be.
Links with the local GPs and District Nurses
Make sure the home has strong links with the local GPs, District Nurses and other support groups. Ensure they have an understanding and experience of supporting people with late-stage dementia or a terminal illness and have the appropriate skills with respect to syringe drivers or other end-of-life medication.
How will the care home support the family
Just as importantly, ensure that they will support the family and loved ones of the resident through this journey. As people near the end of their lives this often becomes as important to them as their own personal comfort.
Find a Greensleeves Care home
If you would like some help or advice on what would be the most appropriate place for your loved one, simply search for your closest Greensleeves Care home, give them a call and ask to speak to the Manager. Who will give you impartial advice and guidance about the End of Life Care they provide.
Remember we are a charity, so we do not worry about making a profit but we do worry about making a difference. So you can rely on us to do our best to help.
