Caregiver Support

Caring for someone at the end of their life can be a privilege, a blessing and an honor. This is a selfless time, and caregiving is a gift that rewards both the caregiver and patient.

There is a sense of intimacy when serving your loved one at their most vulnerable time. These experiences, although difficult at times, can be meaningful in unexpected ways. The caregiving role may be something you’ve done most of your life or it may be a new experience. Regardless of your experience, caring for a loved one with an incurable illness brings responsibilities and demands that may seem overwhelming at times.

Remember, you are not alone. Your Hospice Care Team is here to support you in your role as caregiver. We are here to help you learn how to care for your loved one, support you with information and resources and help you work through any caregiving challenges.

Each person’s journey through the dying process is unique. However, there are some common signs that usually appear to prepare the body for this transition. This process can take days to weeks unless death comes suddenly from an event such as heart attack or stroke. Your Hospice Care Team will review what may be expected to happen. It is important to call us at 407-379-0311 with any questions and report any changes in the patient’s condition.

• Caregivers receive a comprehensive guide to use as a resource, education tool and handbook for patient care as well as self-care for the caregiver.
• Registered Nurses are available by phone 24/7 to answer questions, with staff members on-call to assist when needed. 407-379-0311
• Hundreds of trained volunteers assist Hospice Care Teams by helping caregivers with errands, household chores and more. Plus, volunteers can also sit with a patient to give caregivers a short break from their duties.

A Registered Nurse is available 24/7 for Hospice of the Comforter patients
Patient Services Line: 407-379-0311

Please call Hospice of the Comforter at any time:

1. If the patient’s pain is not controlled.
2. When the patient’s condition changes that causes concern.
3. If you have a question about medication, or need it reordered.
4. Before calling 911 or going to the hospital. (Or, if you have already called or gone.)
5. When the patient needs medical tests or procedure ordered by a physician.
6. If the patient dies.
7. If patient leaves our service area, or has a change of address.
8. You have any questions or concerns.

When calling, be ready to tell the nurse:

• patient’s name,
• the Hospice Care Team color,
• your name, and
• your phone number.

If you leave a message and do not receive a call back within 15 minutes, please call 407-379-0311 again.