Hospice Care at Home: Tips for Preparing Your Living Space
July 02, 2023
When a loved one is nearing the end of their life, hospice care at home can be a comforting and compassionate option. However, preparing your living space for this type of care can be a daunting task.
Here are some tips to help you create a peaceful and supportive environment for hospice care at home.
1. Create a Calming Atmosphere
One of the most important aspects of hospice care at home is creating a calming atmosphere. This can be accomplished through simple touches such as soft lighting, soothing music, and comfortable furniture. Consider adding a diffuser with essential oils to create a peaceful scent in the room. Be sure to keep the temperature comfortable and adjust it as needed to meet the needs of your loved one.
2. Make Room for Medical Equipment
Hospice care often involves the use of medical equipment such as a hospital bed, oxygen tank, or wheelchair. It’s important to make room for this equipment by rearranging furniture and clearing clutter.
You may also need to install ramps or handrails to make it easier to move around the house. Be sure to consult with your hospice care provider to ensure that the space is adequate for the equipment needed.
3. Ensure Safety and Accessibility
Safety and accessibility are key when it comes to hospice care at home. You may need to make modifications to your home to ensure that it is safe and accessible for your loved one. This may include installing grab bars in the bathroom, removing tripping hazards such as loose rugs, and making sure that doorways are wide enough to accommodate a wheelchair. You may also need to install a stairlift or ramp to make it easier to navigate stairs.
4. Set Up a Comfortable Sleeping Area
A comfortable sleeping area is essential for hospice care at home. This may involve setting up a hospital bed in a quiet area of the house, with soft bedding and pillows. You may also want to add a bedside table for easy access to medications and other necessities. Be sure to adjust the lighting and temperature to meet your loved one’s needs.
5. Create a Relaxing Space for Family and Friends
Hospice care at home can be emotionally taxing for the patient and their loved ones. Creating a relaxing space for family and friends can help to alleviate some of the stress. Consider setting up a comfortable seating area with soft lighting and soothing music. You may also want to provide books or other forms of entertainment to help pass the time.
6. Stock Up on Supplies
It’s important to have all the necessary supplies on hand when providing hospice care at home. This may include medications, wound care supplies, and other medical equipment. You may also want to stock up on basic household items such as toilet paper, tissues, and cleaning supplies. Be sure to keep a list of needed supplies and restock them as needed.
7. Seek Support from Hospice Care Providers
Finally, it’s important to seek support from hospice care providers. They can offer guidance and support when it comes to preparing your living space for hospice care at home. They may also be able to provide resources such as home health aides or volunteers to help with daily tasks.
Let Inspire Hospice Be Your Partners for Home Hospice Care
Hospice care at home can be a comforting and compassionate option for those nearing the end of their life. By creating a calming atmosphere, making room for medical equipment, ensuring safety and accessibility, setting up a comfortable sleeping area, creating a relaxing space for family and friends, stocking up on supplies, and seeking support from hospice care providers, you can help to create a peaceful and supportive environment for your loved one.
For the best home hospice services, don’t hesitate to contact us at Inspire Hospice. Our personalized care plans are tailored to each patient’s needs, preferences, and goals. We also provide emotional support, spiritual guidance, and education to patients and their families. Call us today for more inforamtion!
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A Registered Nurse is available to answer your questions about hospice and palliative care services:
- Discuss your unique situation to determine how Inspire services can be tailored to care for you and your family
- Discuss insurance, Medicare and answer other concerns about eligibility, benefits, and other care options
- Answer any questions you have about comfort care