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

Giving is Living–7 Ways Helping Others Helps You

Hospice Care in Bloomington

“It is more blessed to give than receive” is one of the most repeated Biblical quotes in our language. This is most likely due to the fact that so many people have recognized it’s powerful truth. Even people who don’t necessarily believe the Bible have experienced the blessing of giving to and serving others. Science … Read more

5 Steps to Prepare for End-of-Life Care

Hospice in Bloomington

The Day That Changes Everything. No one is prepared for it, ever. It’s the day that changes everything. It turns your emotions, your outlook, your whole life completely upside down. It’s the day you or a loved one get a terminal diagnosis. Nothing can prepare you for the news that your life will most likely not … 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

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

Happiness Part 1: 5 Activities to Increase Your Happiness

Victoria Hospice

Happiness Part 1: 5 Activities to Increase Your Happiness What is happiness? Most of us have an idea. You might say feeling satisfied with your life. I might say feeling loved. Scientists describe happiness as a general sense of well-being. I think most of us would agree with that. What doesn’t promote happiness? Though it’s … 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

Only 1/3 of Adults Have Advance Care Planning

Palliative Care in Victoria

Advance Care Planning Many of us have imagined what we would do in the event that we could no longer care for ourselves. Maybe you’ve even begun to make preparations for that eventuality. But what if you can no longer speak for yourself? According to a recent study published by Healthaffairs.org, only 37 percent of adults … Read more

5 Ways to Avoid Falls for Seniors

Victoria End of Life Care

According to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, the number one cause of injury-related deaths among elderly Americans is falling. In winter, we often think of falling on snow and ice, and that’s very important to watch out for. However, most injury-causing falls happen to seniors inside their own homes, so here are 5 … Read more

5 More Hospice Myths Answered

End of Life Care in Victoria

Hospice is an often misunderstood branch of medical care, and as a result, many who may benefit from hospice or palliative care simply fail to seek it out. In our last entry, we answered 5 of the most common myths about hospice care. Below are 5 more all-too-common misunderstandings about hospice care answered. 1. Hospice … Read more