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Hospice: A Holistic Approach to Care

With the prognosis of terminal illness comes the weight of decision-making shrouded with a thick fog of emotions—fear, grief, disbelief, anger, depression, uncertainty—not only for the one receiving the news, but also for friends and family members, loved ones affected by the pronouncement of six months or less.

Some question their faith; others cling more tightly to it. Some discover spirituality; others remain neutral. Some experience anxiety; others are numb. Not all people react the same, but all people do react.

Physical manifestations can also surface from the stress and shock of facing difficulty: digestive disorders, headaches, muscle tension and stiffness, irregular heartbeat, lethargy, hyperactivity with irritability. These symptoms are unpleasant, yet common.

In this pivotal time, it is imperative to understand what is happening to everyone involved. It is equally important to address these concerns with the help and guidance of professionals who specialize in the effects of terminal illness on the hospice patient and on all associated with them.

Gifted Hearts Hospice in Seguine, Texas, uses a holistic approach to care by focusing on the physical, emotional, spiritual, and intellectual aspects of the human experience. From the moment a patient is received to a year beyond their passing, the staff attend to the needs of the group through education, medical care, counselling, social administration, and bereavement support.

EDUCATION: Having truthful information about what is going on helps to dispel the fear of the unknown. It helps them prepare for what is coming without confusion.

MEDICAL CARE: Instruction on how to care for the patient instills confidence in the group and raises morale since loved ones can be involved in physical therapy and other daily activities.

COUNSELLING: Emotional guidance encourages healthy communication to create a safe environment for expressing honest concerns.

CHAPLAINCY: Prayer and spiritual support strengthen those whose trust and faith are in their God.

SOCIAL ADMINISTRATION: Direction for end of life planning and assistance in funeral arrangements keep the bereaved focused and peaceful knowing the details are taken care of.

BEREAVEMENT SUPPORT: Access to counselling for a full year after the death of their loved one assures those left behind that they are not alone.

Terminal illness and end of life reality challenge all aspects of a human being. Gifted Hearts Hospice and Palliative Care in Seguine, Texas, addresses these aspects with a holistic approach to make the transition from life to death natural and graceful for all involved.

Gifted Hearts Hospice and Palliative Care in Seguin, TX, is a fully staffed facility available to patients who call South Central Texas their home.  It is nestled in the beautiful New Braunfels area as the best hospice near San Antonio, Texas.  It offers palliative care for patients of any age in any stage of illness.  It also offers all four levels of hospice care and maintains its motto: “Live until you Leave.”