Pulmonary Disease
Understanding and Supporting Loved Ones with COPD
We recognize the complexities and challenges of living with advanced Chronic Obstructive Pulmonary Disease (COPD). Our hospice care program is dedicated to supporting patients and their families through this journey, offering comfort, dignity, and understanding.
COPD: A Comprehensive Overview for Families
The Nature of COPD: Chronic Obstructive Pulmonary Disease, commonly known as COPD, is a progressive lung disease characterized by increasing breathlessness. It encompasses conditions like emphysema and chronic bronchitis and often results from long-term exposure to irritating gases or particulate matter, most often from cigarette smoke.
Symptoms and Progression: COPD symptoms include persistent cough, wheezing, and shortness of breath. As the disease progresses, these symptoms can become more severe, significantly impacting daily activities and quality of life. Advanced COPD may lead to complications like frequent lung infections, high blood pressure in lung arteries, and heart problems.
Understanding End-Stage COPD: In its advanced stages, COPD requires comprehensive care. Patients may experience more frequent exacerbations or flare-ups, where symptoms become worse and more debilitating. It’s during these stages that hospice care becomes a vital resource for managing symptoms and providing comfort.
Hospice Care for COPD Patients
Personalized Care Plans: Recognizing the unique needs of each individual with COPD, we create personalized care plans. These plans focus on alleviating symptoms and enhancing comfort, tailored to the specific stage and symptoms of the disease.
Expert Medical Care: Our experienced medical team provides specialized care, including managing medications, administering oxygen therapy, and monitoring overall lung and heart health.
Breathlessness Management: A core focus is managing the distressing symptom of breathlessness, utilizing techniques like positioning, breathing exercises, and, if necessary, appropriate medication.
Emotional and Spiritual Support: COPD can be an emotionally taxing journey. Our counselors and spiritual care advisors are here to support both patients and their families, helping navigate the emotional challenges and uncertainties.
Supporting Families Through the COPD Journey
Educational Resources: We provide families with comprehensive resources to understand COPD, its progression, and how best to support their loved ones.
Respite Care: Caring for a loved one with COPD can be demanding. We offer respite care services to give family caregivers time to rest and recharge.
Bereavement Support: Our support extends beyond the patient's life, providing grief counseling and bereavement services to families coping with loss.