The Best 5 Daily Practices for Those on Hospice Care

When a loved one has a terminal illness and you’ve exhausted all other treatment methods, hospice care in NJ may be an option. Hospice care is not giving up – it’s comforting care for people who are nearing the end of life. The goal of hospice is to reduce pain and discomfort as well as address psychological, social, spiritual and physical needs. This comprehensive care even extends to the family by providing counseling, respite care and bereavement support. 

No matter how comforting hospice care is, this is still an uneasy time for families and their loved ones. Here are five of the best daily practices to do each day to make this transition as easy as possible. 

1. Practice Gratitude 

When you’re living your last days on Earth, you develop a different perspective on life. Things that once seemed big and important might not be anymore. Now is a good time to practice gratitude with your loved one. Focus on your blessings or help them write in a gratitude journal. Doing so increases dopamine and serotonin in the brain, which can boost the mood and improve sleep. 

2. Listen to Music 

Studies show that people who listen to music in hospice or palliative care in NJ feel better emotionally and physically. Patients report lower levels of pain, anxiety and depression. 

With so many different styles and types of music, it should be easy to find something that your loved one enjoys. 

3. Engage in Spirituality 

Spiritual support is a large part of hospice care. However, spirituality is not the same as religion, so people from all belief systems and backgrounds can practice being spiritual. The purpose of offering spiritual support in hospice is to help patients become self-aware and have a deeper understanding of relationships, forgiveness and life’s greater meaning. 

4. Reminiscence 

Reminiscence therapy is a wonderful distraction for a terminally ill person. It prevents boredom, re-establishes life meaning and preservers stories for future generations. You may even notice that your loved one comes alive when they recall certain events. Those in hospice should reminisce as much as possible, whether it’s looking at old photographs or sharing stories with a hospice nurse. 

5. Aromatherapy 

Essential oils promote well-being and ease discomfort for people in hospice care in NJ. Plus, they do not give unwanted side effects or create new problems. The most effective essential oils for relieving nausea, insomnia and anxiety are peppermint, lavender and orange. 

These five daily practices can help make hospice care an easier transition for your loved one. To learn more about your options for hospice care, contact VNA Health Group.

09.9.2019

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