Supporting Caregivers: The Vital Role of Palliative Care

In the healthcare landscape, it is crucial to acknowledge the support that palliative care can provide for both patients and caregivers. Palliative care is a holistic service provided for patients who are living with a serious or advanced illness.  At Hospice of the Western Reserve, we deliver this service through Western Reserve Navigator by providing pain and symptom management along with caregiver support and education. To receive non-hospice palliative care, patients may choose to receive palliative care while continuing to pursue curative treatment and further diagnostic tests.  Throughout that time, we offer support to your family and friends, so those who help care for you have someone taking care of them.

Within one business day, our Navigator team will make contact to ask questions to help understand the needs of the patient and get initial information. This information can regard insurance, advance directives, and what kind of care the patient wishes to receive. We then schedule a clinician visit to conduct a comprehensive assessment of the patient and identify what the needs are of both the patient and their caregiver. 

Through open communication and tailored interventions, our team offers practical assistance from coordinating community resources to helping with daily tasks. We aim to alleviate the logistical burden on caregivers, allowing them to focus on providing meaningful care to their loved ones. Education is also a fundamental component of our caregiver support. We provide resources and guidance to equip caregivers with the knowledge and skills necessary to navigate the unique challenges they may encounter. Whether it is understanding the intricacies of a medical condition or exploring what to do when the illness progresses, we stand by caregivers every step of the way.

At Hospice of the Western Reserve, we understand that caregiving extends beyond medical tasks. It involves navigating emotional complexities, making challenging decisions, and maintaining a delicate balance between providing care and preserving one's well-being. Our palliative care services are designed to address these intricacies. Our Navigator Team will take time to educate you, answer questions, and take as much time as is needed for you to feel confident in the care your loved one is receiving. Illnesses advance and care needs change throughout a person's life. As we interact with you and your family, our team will monitor the patient and caregiver’s condition during every visit and phone call. We want you to receive the right level of care and support when you need it and walk alongside you during your journey.