What is hospice?

Many people wonder: “What is hospice, anyway?”

By definition, hospice is end-of-life care. To us, it’s far more than that. It’s living in faith, finding peace and making precious memories. Hospice is being informed, understood and respected. It’s spending what time is left on your own terms, where and how you choose — comfortable and with confidence and dignity. It’s a gentle, loving and experienced care team that joins your family for the entire journey, never more than a phone call away. And when grief and loss set in, hospice is still there to help loved ones begin the healing process.

“Your staff did an awesome job of following in Jesus’ footsteps through their empathy, concern, compassion and prayers. They were a real source of relief and comfort to ME, no doubt even more so for my father! I will never forget the love of God they shared with our family. Thank you for giving us peace at the end of his life.”

Daughter/caregiver

You can receive hospice services in your own home or wherever you live (with a family member or in a nursing home or assisted living facility). Where and how you choose to live during this time is entirely up to you.

Benefits of hospice care:

  • Reduced pain and discomfort
  • Better quality of life
  • Assistance with personal care, such as hygiene and grooming
  • Coordinated clinical oversight
  • Greater control over your care and personal affairs
  • More confidence and less stress
  • Understanding what to expect
  • Security in knowing that a hospice nurse is available every day 24/7
  • Emotional and spiritual support for you and your family

To learn more about how hospice can help you and your family, give us a call at 800-789-0586. We are available 24/7, every single day, to support you through this difficult time.

 

“Your help and knowledge was invaluable to us in this time of uncertainty. Regardless of how many “episodes” Mom experienced, each one was scary for our family. Having Gentle Shepherd to call upon was so very reassuring. We can’t thank you enough for always being there with comfort and excellent advice.”

Kathy G.
Roanoke, VA

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