“And when the Chief Shepherd appears, you will receive the crown of glory that will never fade away.” - 1 Peter 5:4

Summer Heat & Senior Safety

Palliative Care in Bloomington

Seniors & Heat Most people see heat as a nuisance. But significant and prolonged summer heat is potentially deadly, especially to seniors. Nearly 400 deaths each year are attributed to heat waves in America. And most of those are seniors. This is a staggering thought. But it’s particularly disconcerting for seniors and those who care … Read more

What Jesus Said About Happiness Part 2

Bloomington Palliative Care

Last month we began a series on happiness with a special approach. We’re looking at the sermon on the mount, and specifically the beatitudes. The beatitudes are several statements Jesus made in which He clearly defines what true happiness looks like. In most translations of the Bible, each beatitude begins with the word “blessed.” That word, … Read more

Hospice Care: Sooner is Better

Home Health in Victoria

Sooner is better “I only wish I had contacted hospice care for my loved one sooner.” -Hospice patient family member This is a common feeling expressed by family members. Over our years of caring for patients with terminal and life-limiting illnesses, we’ve heard it many times. And it’s not just a feeling. The truth is … Read more

What Jesus Said About Happiness

Victoria Home Health

Focus on Happiness Several months ago we began a series on happiness. The response was so positive that we’ve chosen to continue that topic in the first blog of each month. We’ve looked at what experts say about happiness and lots of practical suggestions. The Ultimate Source But as a Christian organization, we believe that … Read more

Happiness Part 3: 5 (More) Mood-boosting Activities

Victoria End of Life Care

Focus on happiness Over the last few months, our first blog of each month has focused on happiness. Studies show that happy people have fewer aches and pains. Happy people have better relationships. Happy people are healthier and live longer in general. What many people might fail to recognize is that a terminal diagnosis does … Read more

3 Ways to Avoid Caregiver Burnout

Palliative Care in Victoria

Caregivers are heroes If you’re a caregiver for a hospice patient, Alzheimer’s patient, or anyone with long-term needs, you are a true hero. You sacrifice in ways many others do not understand. Yes, it’s rewarding, but it can also be very taxing emotionally as well as physically. It’s important to watch for signs of burnout. … Read more

Your Grief is Unique

Victoria Hospice

Griefing is a part of life. One of the primary tenets of hospice care is to value death as a natural part of life. In the same way that we acknowledge the beginning of life, we acknowledge and respect its end. And a part of that acknowledgment is grief. Everyone experiences grief, just as everyone … Read more

Happiness Part 2: 3 Systems to Sustain Happiness

Palliative Care in Victoria

Starting With Happiness Last month we started a series on happiness. We’ll do this at the beginning of each month for a while. Why? Hospice and Palliative care patients, understandably, often suffer from temporary or clinical depression. Families and friends often do not know how to help. So we’re starting each month spending time looking … Read more

Are You Storm-Ready?

Victoria Palliative Care

Spring is Here! Spring is here! That means different things to different people. For kids it means more hours playing outside. For families it may mean planning a vacation. But for all of us, it means getting ready for storms! Spring storms can present problems for anyone, but if you’re a senior, it can be … Read more

Ready For Spring? Top 10 Outdoor Activities for Seniors

Palliative Care in Victoria

Some hospice patients are able to continue doing many of the things they love for quite some time. However, for many, that is not possible. Many factors related to life-limiting or terminal conditions can change what we’re able to do. But activity, as much as is possible, is healthy and recommended for most patients. So … Read more

The Caregiver-Friendly Car

Victoria Hospice Care

If you’re a caregiver for a family member or loved one, chances are your car is an important part of that role. And if your car is not well-suited, it can make your job a lot more difficult. What makes a caregiver-friendly car? If you’re making a change, ask these questions before choosing your next … Read more

President Trump Supports Veterans’ Mental Health

Victoria Palliative Care

President Signs Transitional Mental Health Care Order. Last Month, President Trump showed his support for veterans by signing his “Supporting Our Veterans During Their Transition from Uniformed Service to Civilian Life” executive order. This allows the 60% of recently separated vets who used to be ineligible, to now be eligible for the VA benefit. Beginning in March, … Read more