Aroostook Health Center to host
hospice presentation Nov. 27
MARS HILL — For many individuals the word “hospice” can be a bit frightening and is surrounded by myths. The Aroostook Health Center (AHC) in Mars Hill, a division of The Aroostook Medical Center, is inviting community members to take part in a presentation to learn more about hospice services offered locally in The County.
The free presentation will take place at the AHC facility at 15 Highland Ave. in Mars Hill Tuesday, Nov. 27 from 3-4 p.m. in the Grant Building. It will be led by representatives from Hospice of Aroostook and Visiting Nurses of Aroostook.
Hospice is a health care plan in which the patient resides in the comfort of their home while receiving basic medical care. At Hospice of Aroostook and Visiting Nurses of Aroostook, a nurse is accessible 24 hours a day, seven days a week. The goal is to provide pain relief, emotional support, and comfort for those patients who are suffering with an incurable illness.
“This is an informational session we are offering for our residents’ families and local community members to learn what the benefits of hospice entail. Hospice has a focus on comfort and dignity, not on curing,” said Kelly Lundeen, AHC administrator. “We want to help community members gain a better understanding of what hospice has to offer and how they might benefit from this program.”
According to a recently posted article on WebMD, there are many myths that surround the word “hospice.” Some of the myths include that all hope is lost once the patient receives hospice care, the program is irreversible, it is just for the patient, and that hospice is expensive. The reality of the situation is that hospice doesn’t allow the patient to lose hope but to redirect that hope toward inner peace.
At any time during the hospice program the patient can return to treatment if they experience progress with their illness and can return back to their hospice plan whenever necessary. Health professionals at Hospice of Aroostook and Visiting Nurses of Aroostook include the family members or caregivers in this process by giving advice on medical care, emotional support, and knowledge about the grieving process.
“A team of professionals and caregivers look after the physical, emotional, social and spiritual needs of the patients and their family members,” said Deb Jacques, community relations manager for Hospice of Aroostook. Jacques and Jessica Thompson-Parady, team supervisor for the program, will lead the Nov. 27 presentation.
“Many believe that hospice care is expensive. The reality is that the program is paid through the patient’s Medicare benefit, if they are eligible for Medicare,” Jacques said. “Individuals can use hospice’s services even if they are in a long-term care facility such as a nursing home.”
Individuals planning to attend the session are encouraged to contact Lundeen by phone at 768-4914 or by e-mail klundeen@tamc.org.
