Hospice of the Valleys defined palliative care for end of life.
Director of Community Relations Kristi Necochea explained that Hospice of the Valleys is a non-profit helping families and patients through end of life. She had experienced hospice when she lost her mom. Her mom, who had been singing Moon River the day before, suddenly required intubation. Director Necochea’s brothers and sisters came from all over the country to support Dad in making decisions.Then, hospice came into the picture, connected with her family and walked her family through the process For the first time, she realized the importance of hospice’s role. Being on hospice changed the modality of care from treating disease to treating symptoms. Hospice further changed the focus to a pain-free time and the ability to create beautiful memories. This process can occur at home, in a nursing home or assisted living facility. Hospice provides palliative care, meaning care that relieves pain, symptoms and stress caused by serious illnesses. Hospice is a type of palliative care during a person's last days.
According to Director Necochea, Hospice of the Valley focuses on mind, body and soul with a team. There are two staff doctors who work with the Care Manager Registered Nurse (RN) to develop a care plan. A Home Health Aide handles bathing, bandaging and light cleaning. A Social Worker ensures that everything is available including a well-written letter to a commanding officers so a young solider can come home. Medically trained chaplains work with the patient to handle bolster a patient’s faith and handle any unresolved issues. Amazingly, a son will pass on a Chaplain and indicate no pain medicines for a tough Dad. The dying Dad actually wants all the meds and first communion. Volunteers, who have special interests, stay on-hand to entertain with model airplanes or veteran stories.
For those interested in preparing for those final moments, she provided Five Wishes, a living will for the end of life. The Hospice of the Valleys has a website with more information.
Hospice of the Valleys' Kristi Necochea (right) and Resource Provider Cari Rath stand with President Don Weeks after they discuss their hospice organization.