Hospice Care
Explore the essence of hospice care in New Zealand. Discover how NZ offers a compassionate approach to life’s final journey
What is Hospice Care? Hospice care in New Zealand goes beyond the walls of a facility. It’s a holistic approach to caring for those nearing the end of life. Rather than simply “giving up”, palliative care offered by hospices is active, aiming to improve quality of life. It focuses on both physical pain management and emotional, cultural, and spiritual needs. Moreover, families are given support during and after their loved one’s journey.
When is Hospice Care Offered? While hospice care is primarily for those with terminal illnesses, it’s not limited to the final stages. Some might access hospice while still undergoing treatments like pain managed radiotherapy. If you’re considering hospice, talk to your health provider. Many who’ve used hospice services often express wishing they’d engaged sooner.
How to Access Hospice Support? You can be referred by your GP, hospital team, aged care facility, or even self-refer. Reach out to your local hospice to understand how to start the process.
What’s the Cost? Hospice care is entirely free for those using the services. While the Central Government funds most of the hospice services, community support through fundraising is vital. Every year, New Zealand’s hospices need to raise a significant amount from the community to maintain their services.
Remember, opting for hospice isn’t about ceasing all treatments or giving up. It’s about seeking the best quality of life possible. Engage with hospice teams; they’re there to guide and support not just the patient, but their family as well.
Hospice care at home
In New Zealand, the concept of ‘home’ holds immense significance. It’s not just a physical space but a realm imbued with memories, comforts, and a sense of belonging. Recognising this intrinsic bond, many hospices across the country have expanded their services to offer home care, allowing patients to receive specialised attention in the comfort of their own homes.
The availability of home care through hospices has several notable benefits:
- Familiar Surroundings: Being in a familiar environment can be comforting for patients, potentially aiding in their emotional well-being and making the end-of-life journey more peaceful.
- Personalised Care: Home care allows for a more personalised approach to each patient’s needs, preferences, and routines, resulting in tailored care plans that align closely with the patient’s and their family’s wishes.
- Family Involvement: Home care promotes active involvement of the family and whānau in the care process. It allows them to be hands-on in supporting their loved one, strengthening family bonds during a challenging time.
- Cost-Efficiency: In some cases, providing care at home can be more cost-effective than inpatient care, making it a viable option for many.
- Cultural Sensitivity: For many in New Zealand, especially the Māori community, home and land carry significant cultural and ancestral weight. Being able to remain on one’s own land and amongst family during the end-of-life phase can be profoundly meaningful.
The option for home care has been made available by a good number of hospices across New Zealand, reflecting the evolving understanding of what holistic end-of-life care can look like. However, it is essential to note that while home care can be a preferred choice for many, it may not be suitable for everyone, depending on the medical needs and circumstances of the patient.
For those considering hospice care, it’s advisable to discuss the feasibility and benefits of home care with healthcare providers and hospice teams. They can provide insights into the availability of this service in specific regions and help families make informed decisions that resonate best with their unique situations.