National Home Health and Hospice Month: “Courageous Conversations”

National Home Health, Hospice and Palliative Care Month: “Courageous Conversations” – Pemi-Baker Hospice & Home Health Advocates for Open Dialogue.

November is National Home Health, Hospice and Palliative Care Month, and Pemi-Baker Hospice & Home Health is joining the nationwide effort to raise awareness and promote “Courageous Conversations” about end-of-life care. This year’s theme emphasizes the importance of initiating open dialogues within your inner circle of friends, family, and care providers about your healthcare preferences and choices. These conversations can be a powerful way to ensure that your wishes are respected and honored.

In a world that often shies away from discussing topics related to mortality and end-of-life decisions, “Courageous Conversations” encourage individuals to break the silence and engage in meaningful discussions. Pemi-Baker Hospice & Home Health believes that starting these conversations is an act of love and compassion, benefiting both you and your loved ones in the long run.

Initiating such discussions can be daunting, but it is an essential step toward ensuring that your values and preferences are understood and respected. Here are some suggestions for starting “Courageous Conversations”:

1. “I know this isn’t a concern for us now, but I was thinking…” – This gentle approach allows you to express your thoughts without making it an immediate issue, giving your loved ones time to process and respond.
2. “Remember when our (name of friend or family member) was sick/in the hospital? I’m wondering what you would have wanted if it were you.” – Relating your question to a shared experience can help open the conversation and make it feel less intimidating.
3. Review and Update Advance Directives – Ensure your healthcare directives accurately reflect your current wishes and values. It’s crucial to keep these documents up-to-date, especially if there have been changes in your life circumstances or health status.
4. The 5 D’s: Recognize that certain life events, such as Divorce, Death, Diagnosis, Decline, or Decade (significant milestone birthdays), can trigger the need to revisit your healthcare decisions. Use these events as reminders to update your preferences and inform your loved ones.

Having clarity about what is important to you in terms of your medical care can significantly ease the burden on those who may need to make decisions on your behalf. It provides them with the reassurance that they are acting in accordance with your wishes.

Pemi-Baker Hospice & Home Health offers support and guidance for those who want to initiate “Courageous Conversations” with their loved ones. Our team of healthcare professionals is available to provide information, resources, and advice on advance care planning and end-of-life decisions.

This National Home Health, Hospice and Palliative Care Month, we encourage everyone to take the first step in having “Courageous Conversations” about their healthcare preferences. By doing so, we can ensure that each individual’s dignity and choices are respected, providing peace of mind for both patients and their families.

For questions about advance directives or hospice call 603-536-2232 or visit us at one of our Ask A Pemi-Baker Nurse drop in days at your local senior center. For days and times please check our website calendar.

Pemi-Baker Hospice & Home Health is a trusted, nonprofit agency proudly serving 32 towns in central and northern NH since 1967. Expert services include at-home healthcare and physical therapies (VNA), hospice and palliative care, and community programs including: American Red Cross CPR/AED/FA, Caregiver and Bereavement Support Groups and Ask A Pemi-Baker Nurse days at your local senior centers. Providing compassionate care with experienced staff who are trained, certified professionals and also your neighbors.  In your time of need, we’re right where you need us.