Hospice of the Western Reserve Provides Care in Your Home

When family members are diagnosed with a limited life expectancy, they want to spend their precious remaining time with those they love, in the comfort of home. Comfort, touch and togetherness are among the key elements made possible by the Hospice of the Western Reserve.

Despite the challenges of these unprecedented times, Hospice of the Western Reserve’s compassionate teams continue to provide holistic end-of-life care and support in the home setting during the pandemic. In fact, more than 97% of the non-profit agency’s care is still provided in the home or community setting.

Safety protocol, process modifications and technology have been put into place to protect patients, families and hospice staff. In-person visits are still conducted by the nurse during the admissions process and whenever they are needed to manage uncontrolled symptoms. Hospice nursing assistants (HNAs) visit the home to help with personal care and the tasks of daily living. During visits to the home, the nurse and HNA follow Centers for Disease Control (CDC) guidelines, wearing a mask, gown and gloves.

Telehealth capabilities allow the nurse, social worker and spiritual care coordinator to conduct videobased visits and maintain regular weekly contact while maintaining social distancing protocols. Services such as social work, spiritual care, art and music therapy can be offered remotely through video visits or telephone check-ins.

Hospice support staff - available 24 hours a day through a help line - are skilled at managing calls and providing appropriate care. If an emergent situation arises such as a new uncontrolled symptom, the hospice team will assess how to manage the circumstances, which may involve a visit to the home.

Virtual tools allow Hospice of the Western Reserve team members to stay connected to coordinate care when nursing homes, extended care facilities and hospitals must limit the number of visitors in their buildings because of the COVID-19 pandemic. Regular telehealth contact enables the hospice home care team to provide family caregiver guidance on medication and symptom control as well as spiritual and emotional support during this incredibly difficult time.

If you need help, please do not hesitate to call us. We are here for you! An inperson visit can be scheduled the same day it is needed. Contact us seven days a week, 24 hours a day at 216.383.3700 or 800.707.8921 or visit hospicewr.org.