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by Heather Larson, LSW, CT Holidays are typically a joyful time filled with celebrations, gatherings and merriment, but it can be a stressful and emotional time when a family member or someone close to you is dealing with an illness. My family and I were in this situation in 2017 when my beloved grandpa was…
As a professional caregiver, you may spend more time with the people you care for than your own family. Sometimes the people you care for can become like family to you or you may feel like family to them, especially if the person does not have family of their own. It can be difficult when…
Dignity is a basic human need; it’s our sense of self-worth, respect and esteem. Preserving dignity in another person means respecting their whole self and caregiving in a way that respects their preferences and individuality. One of the most rewarding aspects of being a caregiver is to know you’ve provided dignified care. So, how do we know…
When someone is dying, it can be an emotional and trying time for everyone involved. Many people shy away from the person who is dying because they don’t know how to deal with the emotions involved or they are afraid of what’s to come. The most important thing to remember is this is about the…
by Jennifer Messelt, LMSW, LGSW In my 14 years as grief specialist at HIA Hospice, I’ve sat across from many grieving spouses. It’s been a privilege and honor to journey alongside them during their first year of grief. Through these interactions, I have learned about the grief reactions bereaved spouses have experienced. I’ve also learned the types…
Have you ever had someone say something to you during a difficult situation that you know was said with good intent but came across as hurtful or uncomfortable? How something is said can make all the difference. Knowing what to say when someone is ill can be challenging. Below are tips on what to say and…
by Vickie Haverkamp, Dr. Div., M.Div., RN When I think of presence, I think of my grandfather. He always made me feel like the most important person in the world because he gave me his undivided attention, genuinely engaging in our conversations and free time together. I knew he listened and was not concerned about what he…
by Jennifer Messelt, LMSW, LGSW After a loved one has died, you may feel like you are consumed by your grief—and often loneliness—especially if you had a close relationship with the person who died. Even though you may be surrounded by others, the physical and emotional void left by the person’s death may be accompanied by…
Special thanks to Samaritan Healthcare & Hospice, Marlton, NJ, for allowing HIA Hospice, formerly Hospice of the Red River Valley, to share the following article. When someone dear is terminally ill, you want to give them love and support. But you may also wish to give them something to show you care and enhance their comfort.…
HIA Hospice uses a piece of technology called the Macy Catheter. This specific catheter provides quick symptom management for severe symptoms while avoiding some of the challenges of administering oral/buccal medications at the end of life. A number of educational and instructional resources for The Macy Catheter are available: