End-of-life care in one’s own home
When the time comes, the majority of Quebec residents would prefer to die at home. With the COVID-19 pandemic, the fear of dying alone, isolated from our loved ones, has become very real. Even if, for now, few deaths have taken place at home, the decision to die in familiar surroundings is occupying our thoughts more than ever.
In recent years, the government has made in-home senior care one of its top priorities. In this sense, the question of dying at home has become unavoidable, not only because the future of our society will be marked by an aging population but also because of an increase in deaths linked to cancer, cardiovascular disease and lung disease. In-home palliative care is currently on the rise, which only reinforces the notion that end-of-life care at home is an approach that’s humane, comforting and reassuring.
In-home end-of-life care: between privacy and solace
Those who are preparing to undergo palliative care frequently express their desire to make the most of their final days. One thing’s certain: going through this difficult, heart-wrenching phase in the welcoming atmosphere of one’s own home, surrounded by loved ones, is of immeasurable value. In general, both those providing care and those receiving it can attest to more intimacy, better communication and a sort of natural communion that isn’t necessarily possible in a hospital environment. This proximity in a familiar setting is essential in order for loved ones to face the imminent period of mourning with as much serenity as possible.
Understandably, a decision of this nature requires making arrangements, ensuring sufficient availability of family members and accepting the difficulties that come with in-home care. This is why it’s so important to perform a precise evaluation of one’s needs: material, psychological support, respite services for the family, intervention protocols in the event of an emergency, etc. The local community service center (CLSC), community organizations and in-home support services work in concert in order to hone their expertise and offer patients and their loved ones comprehensive guidance and invaluable relief.
Once the process is underway, the availability, personalization and quality of the care provided, as well as the attentiveness of the professionals, is readily apparent.
Available services for providing your loved one with end-of-life car
The services for those facing their final days focus on three important areas: day-to-day life, medical care and companionship. Housekeeping, meal preparation, managing medications and appointments and running errands are some of the tasks that will guarantee peace of mind and a space that’s clean and tranquil.
Since this stage of life can be very demanding, specific types of assistance are also available. Personal hygiene, transportation, changing positions and proper nutrition are just some of the things that can prove to be difficult both physically and emotionally, according to the pathology of the patient.
Care and support for the person facing the end of life and for his or her loved ones is another important aspect to consider. Conversation, interaction, games, entertainment and keeping faraway friends and family apprised of the situation are among the other services that are regularly implemented. Whether for moral support or a different perspective, these services offer the patient a temporary distraction from his or her illness by providing solutions for intellectual, physical and spiritual stimulation.
One of the most important factors to consider when making the decision to die at home is, without a doubt, ensuring the support that’s necessary to provide high-quality care. This is why the staff at Elite Comfort never fails to implement custom solutions to make this final phase of life as comfortable as possible.
Sources :
- Soins palliatifs. Passer les derniers jours de sa vie chez soi, au milieu des siens [Spending one’s final days at home with loved ones]. 2020.
- La Presse. Mourir à la maison [Dying at home]. 2016.