Steps for Family Hospice Caregivers

Create an atmosphere that encourages and supports the patient's feelings
The best time to talk about important or sensitive subjects is in a calm and conducive environment and not in moments of crisis. Try to have everyone in a calm setting where everyone has the patient's full attention. Think about important talks in the past and try to recreate that.

Constantly communicate and be truthful
Patients want to share many things, but they may not want to share them with just one person. Let the patient talk about whatever he or she wants with whomever he or she wants. If the patient isn’t telling you everything, this is fine as long as he or she is telling somebody the rest. Also, keep in mind that communication varies between men and women.

Dealing with anxiety or depression
Patients in need of hospice may become anxious because of worries about medical procedures, their sickness, or the future. Medication may play a role in their anxiety. Seek ways to communicate with the patients and establish a calm setting so the patient releases their stress and anxiety.

Choosing the right form of communication from the wrong
Save both time and energy by skipping the minor conflicts and using your positive communication on topics that really count.

Allowing the patient to make as many decisions as possible
Try and listen to the patient and what he or she really wants. The adult children may want the patient to be in the hands of a nursing facility, but the patient may want to be at home. Writing patient needs can solve conflicts.

Spirituality
For those people whose faith offers comfort, your support of that faith will be both helpful and appreciated. For those who are troubled by uncertainty, help the patient by offering your own questions and uncertainties. If you can admit to the possibility, it may be helpful to say that not all spiritual questions can be answered.

Working with health professionals
Be as detailed as possible about what you want. Make lists of questions and concerns, and have them in front of you when you talk with health professionals. Ask health professionals over the phone about what they would like from you before you meet with them. It is good to keep your questions and answers together in a file or drawer where you can see and review them.

Working with family and friends
Family members, friends, clergy, and people who belong to community organizations can all help. Some can help with planning, and others can help with offering support. People who live in the same household or are going to be very involved in carrying out a plan should help in executing it, and make sure they understand the guidelines. Once a plan is constructed, then everyone can work as a team to treat the patient.

Checking on results
Every week or so, take the time to think about how you are doing as a caregiver. Look through this plan, and ask yourself how closely you are matching the “successful caregiver” that is described.