NATIONAL
2015
CALL (970) 352-8487 FOR MORE INFORMATION OR VISIT WWW.HOSPICEOFNORTHERNCOLORADO.ORG
Rehabilitation • Assisted Living Memory Care • Long Term Skilled Care
G R A C E
To Our Hospice Friends When I take the time to reflect upon National Hospice Month, I notice the changing of the landscape from summer to fall which makes me quickly realize that nothing ever stands still, that nothing ever maintains its current state, identity or shape for very long. In fact, all of nature cycles through seasons of change and transformation, effortlessly and naturally just like humans transition through psychological and physical states of transformation throughout our lives. Although I am appreciative that change, whether in life, health, home or work allows for renewal, challenge and an opportunity to grow or reflect, I find my focus centers on the changing landscape of hospice care. The change Hospice of Northern Colorado is realizing is hospice care is being provided for a shorter amount of time to those who really need the care. We see some of our patients receiving care in the final weeks or days of their lives, instead of their final months. There are many theories as to the “why” and continued dialogue about hospice eligible patients receiving the right care, at the right time is crucial. Hospice continues to provide significant cost savings to Medicare through a reduction in hospitalizations and heroic end-oflife procedures. It is specialized medical work that continues to be crucial to the sustainability of our lives and our healthcare system. This publication is one way Hospice of Northern Colorado, your local communitybased non-profit hospice provider, can showcase the lives we touch and the work we do while promoting education about the hospice industry to our community. We ask you to help us keep the conversation alive about understanding hospice and end-of-life care. If we can support you or someone you know, please call (970) 352 8487. Sincerely, Cynthia Werner Executive Director 2
P O I N T E
November is National Hospice/Palliative Care Month
Grace Pointe Thanks Hospice for All They Do!
Our Mission is to Serve Others.Serving is our Highest Calling. 1919 68th Avenue, Greeley
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970.304.1919
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gracepointegreeley.com
National Hospice Month | November 2015
Don’t Wait to Talk About Hospice It’s an all too common situation. A family is at the bedside of a loved one who is seriously ill and nearing the end-of-life. Each member of the family has a different idea of what should be done and what the patient would want. Far too many people wait until they are in the midst of a healthcare crisis before thinking about what options are available or what care they or their loved ones would have wanted. Often, by waiting too long to learn about possible options, like hospice care, people end up spending difficult days in the hospital or the emergency room and opportunities to be with loved ones at home are lost. When a family is coping with a serious illness and a cure is no longer possible, hospice provides the type of care most people say they want at the end of life: comfort and dignity. Considered to be the model for high-quality, compassionate care for people with a life-limiting illness, Hospice of Northern Colorado provides expert medical care, pain management, and emotional and spiritual support. Care is provided by an inter-disciplinary team of
professionals and trained volunteers. The wishes of the patient and family are always at the center of our care. Most hospice care is provided in the home – where the majority of Americans have said they would want to be as they near the end-of-life. Care is also provided in nursing homes, assisted living facilities and at our Inpatient Care Center on the 5th floor of NCMC. Care is paid for by Medicare, Medicaid and most private insurance plans and HMOs. In addition, Hospice of Northern Colorado is the only local not-for-profit 501(c)3 hospice in Weld County and we will not deny an eligible hospice patient care due to lack of ability to pay for services. Hospice of Northern Colorado can provide families with information about care options and choices that help to ensure patients live as fully as possible throughout their entire life. One of the best ways to make sure you and your loved ones benefit fully from hospice, should you ever need this care, is to talk about it before it becomes an issue.
For more information, contact Hospice of Northern Colorado at (970) 352-8487 or visit us online at www.HospiceofNorthernColorado.org.
Jack’s Place
A comfortable home away from home to accommodate visiting families of Hospice Patients, hospitalized loved ones or those attending funeral services. There is no charge for the use of Jack’s Place.
We have appreciated being partners with Hospice of Northern Colorado to support the use of Jack’s Place over the past 8 years.
A family company since 1886.
702 13th St. Greeley - 970-352-3366 - www.allnutt.com
National Hospice Month | November 2015
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Hospice of Northern Colorado Community Therapy Memorial Garden
Remembering Those We Loved and Lost
For naming opportunities please call Hospice of Northern Colorado at (970) 352-8487
Thank you Hospice of Northern Colorado for your continued dedication and support to the people and communities you serve.
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National Hospice Month | November 2015
Support Hospice of Northern Colorado on Colorado Gives Day “Give Where You Live” on December 8 Tuesday, December 8 will mark the 6th year for Colorado Gives Day. Colorado Gives Day is an initiative to increase philanthropy in Colorado through online giving. In addition to fundraising, Colorado Gives Day raises awareness of the state’s nonprofit sector. For a 24-hour period, on Tuesday, December 8, Coloradoans can donate to their favorite nonprofit organizations online through the Community First Foundation. Thanks to Community First Foundation and First Bank, Colorado Gives Day 2015 features a $1 Million Incentive Fund, one of the largest gives-day incentive funds in the country. Every nonprofit receiving a donation on Colorado Gives Day receives a portion of the incentive fund, which increases the value of every dollar donated. For example, if Hospice of Northern Colorado receives 10 percent of the total donations made on Colorado Gives Day, Hospice of Northern Colorado also receives 10 percent of the $1 Million Incentive Fund.
On December 8 we encourage you to “Give Where you Live” and donate to your favorite Weld County based organization. Please remember Hospice of Northern Colorado when choosing the recipient of your gift. Hospice of Northern Colorado is the oldest nonprofit hospice in northern Colorado. Established in 1978, we have served the communities of Weld, Morgan and Larimer counties for 37 years. We have touched the lives of more than 23,000 individuals in our community. We do not turn away a qualified hospice patient due to lack of ability to pay. In the last 5 years alone, Hospice of Northern Colorado has provided more than $1 million in uncompensated care to your friends, family members and neighbors.
We appreciate your support! On December 8 visit: www.ColoradoGives.org/HospiceNorthernColorado to donate!
taking care of each other is what community is all about. We’re dedicated to serving the friends and families of our community with personal, compassionate care.
Proudly supporting Hospice of Northern Colorado.
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16 YEARS of Dedication If you call Hospice of Northern Colorado on Wednesdays you will more than likely be greeted by the compassionate voice of one of our most dedicated volunteers, Barb Ericson. Every Wednesday, Barb dedicates her time to helping our administrative staff with anything from answering the phones, to stuffing envelopes. The Hospice of Northern Colorado staff looks forward to her arrival, not only for her uplifting spirit, but she always comes equipped with a large tin full of chocolate. She has been a volunteer with Hospice of Northern Colorado for 16 years. Her passion for hospice care began in 1995, when Barb’s parents were Through a Bereavement group, you their patients and families, its inspiring.” has done everything from setting up diagnosed with stage 4 cancer within get a chance to talk about how you’re Barb said. tables & tents, loading peaches into 6 months of one another. Her dad feeling and start to heal.” Barb said. Since 1999, Barb has evolved as a peoples cars, to putting lights on the died 2 short weeks after his diagnosis Barb started her hospice volunteer volunteer within Hospice of Northern trees outside the administrative office and, unfortunately, did not receive career answering phones at the front Colorado. Barb currently sits on the to memorialize lost loved ones during the comforting care through hospice desk and helping out the Bereavement Community Development Committee the holiday season. There has yet to be he deserved. “It was scary and sad. Department as her way of saying thank who helps with the fundraising efforts a hospice event you don’t see one or We had no idea what to do or who to you for all the support they had given her. of the agency, the Northern Colorado all of the Ericson family at. As a family, contact.” Barb said. “I knew there had “It’s so hard losing someone you love. Committee who supports the hospice they believe in giving of their time to to be a better way.” After her father’s When I get the opportunity to interact efforts in the northern Colorado region an organization that they feel has given passing, she was determined not to so much to a community they have her mother pass under love. the same circumstance. They When asked what she wants “I think if people understood all of the wonderful things hospice does, they got in touch with Hospice of the community to know wouldn’t be so fearful of it. My hope is that people will take the time to learn Northern Colorado and Barb about Hospice of Northern about hospice, know the value of having a non-profit hospice in our community felt that her mother’s endColorado, Barb said, “I think of-life experience was full of and see what it does for people. Hospice of Northern Colorado is there to lift if people understood all of the comfort and compassion – a people up and support them during one of the most difficult times in life.” wonderful things hospice does, much different experience they wouldn’t be so fearful of than her father's. it. My hope is that people will After her mother passed in 1998, Barb with the families who have worked with and she has been a member of the take the time to learn about hospice, utilized the support of the Hospice Hospice of Northern Colorado, and Board of Directors since 2011. In her know the value of having a non-profit of Northern Colorado bereavement I hear how much it means to them, it years of service, Barb has contributed hospice in our community and see what counselors. “The bereavement support touches me.” Barb said. When asked more than $30,000 worth of volunteer it does for people. Hospice of Northern hospice gave me was huge. Most people what keeps her coming back 16 years time to Hospice of Northern Colorado Colorado is there to lift people up and don’t want to talk about death and later, she confidently says “the staff.” support them during one of the most and her dedication doesn’t stop there. are overwhelmed by their grief. The “I see dedicated nurses, chaplains, Her husband Don Ericson, owner difficult times in life.” information hospice gave me was not social workers, CNAs and administrative of Aztech Software in Greeley, sat on From everyone here at Hospice of only helpful, but comforting. Through staff who have a passion for what they do the Board of Directors for Hospice of Northern Colorado, we would like to the grief group I learned not only how and care about the people they serve. Northern Colorado for 6 years. Barb thank Barb and the entire Ericson family to get through the grief, but how to do I know how lonely and scary it can be and Don are the parents of three boys for their dedication and commitment to it in my own way. You don’t want to be when you are losing someone you love. Brendon, Steve and Sean who have been our staff, patients and families. a burden to your family and friends so When I see how much the Hospice of volunteering at Hospice of Northern you tend to keep a lot locked inside. Northern Colorado staff cares about Colorado events since 1999. The family
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National Hospice Month | November 2015
Grief During the Holidays The winter holidays are generally perceived as “the most wonderful time of the year.” But for those who are facing grief after the death of a loved one, the holidays may instead be a time filled with pain and sadness. Even those for whom grief is not as fresh, the holidays may serve as an annual reminder of the loss—not only of that person, but of tradition and celebration. Our bereavement professionals at Hospice of Northern Colorado understand how difficult this season can be. They support families, children to adults, coping with loss all year long. Our bereavement counselors stress the importance of making decisions that feel right to the grieving person and giving oneself permission to make new or different choices at the holidays.
EXPERTS IN GRIEF OFFER SOME TIPS: Be Willing to Change Traditions. Holidays often center on certain traditions and rituals. For some, continuing these traditions without a loved one may be an important way to continue sharing their memory. For others, it may be more comforting to develop new rituals to help lessen the pain and immediacy of the loss. Help Reduce Stress. While the holidays can be filled with meaning, they can also be filled with pressure and stress because of additional tasks such as shopping, baking and decorating. Grieving people should be encouraged to prioritize what needs to be done, and focus on those projects that may bring them pleasure. Perhaps the National Hospice Month | November 2015
gift list can be pared down, cards need not be sent out, or another family member can cook the family dinner this year. Remember Those Who Have Died. The holidays can bring opportunities to remember the person who has died in a way that is personally meaningful. Some families choose to participate in holiday events at a local hospice. Others may choose to share special family stories over a meal. Some may find that making a donation to a special charity or volunteering time to help others in need may be a comforting way to honor their loved one.
National Hospice Month Open House
Wednesday, November 18th 3:30 to 5:00pm
Here at Hospice of Northern Colorado, we know of the importance of providing emotional and spiritual support to those who are grieving but most importantly, we want to remind you that a person grieving should do what’s most comfortable for him or her during this time of year. Hospice of Northern Colorado provides grief and bereavement support through individual or group therapies to all hospice patient families for up to 13 months after the death of a loved one, at no cost to the family. We provided grief and bereavement services to anyone in the community, children to adults, who are in need of support based on a sliding fee scale.
To learn more about our grief and loss programs, contact our Grief Counselors at Hospice of Northern Colorado at (970) 352-8487 or visit us at www.HospiceofNorthernColorado.org.
at Hospice of Northern Colorado Administrative Office 2726 W 11th Street Road, Greeley. ALL ARE WELCOME. 7
PAYING FOR End-of-Life Care
How to pay for the rising costs of health care is a concern shared by not only by elected officials but by almost every family across the country. Many baby boomers are providing care for their aging parents just as they are facing their own health care issues. Yet, for almost 30 years, the Medicare Hospice Benefit has provided a model for financing end-of-life care that can bring great relief and support to families during one of life’s most difficult times. This benefit covers virtually all aspects of hospice care with little out-of-pocket expense for the patient or family. As a result, some of the financial burdens often associated with caring for a terminally-ill patient are lifted. Hospice care also offers support to the loved ones of the patient; this brings an added level of relief to the dying person, knowing their loved ones are being cared for as well. Hospice is paid for through the Medicare Hospice Benefit, Medicaid Hospice Benefit, and most private insurers. In addition, most private health plans and Medicaid in 47 States and the District of Columbia cover hospice services. If a person does not have coverage through Medicare, Medicaid or a private insurance company, Hospice of Northern Colorado, as your local not-for-profit hospice, will provide the
care needed as it relates to the patients hospice diagnosis, at no charge to the patient or family. Medicare will still pay for covered benefits for any health problems that aren’t related to a terminal illness. Hospice and palliative care involves a team-oriented approach to expert medical care, pain management, and emotional and spiritual support expressly tailored to the patient's needs and wishes. Families making end-oflife decisions for a loved one need compassion and support, not financial worries. The Medicare Hospice Benefit helps alleviate these concerns.
Medicare Covers These Hospice Services: • • • • • • • • • • • •
Doctor services Nursing care Medical equipment (like wheelchairs or walkers) Medical supplies (like bandages and catheters) Drugs for symptom control and pain relief Short-term care in the hospital, including respite and inpatient for pain and symptom management Home health aide and homemaker services Physical and occupational therapy Speech therapy Social work services Dietary counseling Grief support
To learn more, contact Hospice of Northern Colorado at (970) 352-8487 or visit us at www.HospiceofNorthernColorado.org 8
National Hospice Month | November 2015
Thank You Hospice of Northern Colorado for your dedication and care to people in our community r
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Fairacres Manor
Empowered Elders
Continue Life’s Journey at Fairacres Manor
Fariacres Manor thanks Hospice for their dedication, compassion, and generosity.
Nursing and rehabilitation doesn’t mean helplessness, loneliness or boredom at Fairacres Manor where elders retain autonomy and independence. Free from restrictive routines and monotonous care, elders’ lives continue to grow in an environment that fosters the spontaneity of life. An elder-centered community focuses on loving companionship, medical partnership, and fulfilling activity.
A residence that honors the health, wisdom, and experiences of Fairacre elders preserves and celebrates their past while cultivating new and valued relationships. Personalized accommodations, individualized dining, committed staff that care like family, and amenities like a fireside lounge, garden, bistro, barber and beauty shop provide the comfort and passion of daily life. • Private Suites
• Occupational Therapy
• Physical Therapy
• Speech Therapy
• Wound Care
Certified Nurses
Family-owned and locally operated since 1964, call 970-353-3370 or visit www.fairacresmanor.com. 1700 18th Avenue | Greeley, Colorado 80631 | 970-353-3370 | fairacres@vivage.com | fairacresmanor.com
Short Term Rehabilitation with Physical Therapy, Occupational Therapy, and Speech Therapy.
1700 18th Avenue | Greeley, Colorado 80631 970-353-3370 | fairacresmanor.com National Hospice Month | November 2015
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It’sThankNever too Late to a Veteran, Even at the End-of-Life HHH
Americans across the country celebrate Veterans Day on November 11, a special day to salute the men and women who have bravely served our country in the military. These fellow Americans have made profound sacrifices in defense of freedom and they deserve our heartfelt thanks and appreciation. Honoring our nation’s Veterans includes supporting them throughout their entire lives, especially at the end. It surprises many Americans to learn that every day, 1,800 Veterans die. That’s more than 680,000 Veterans every year – or 25 percent of all the people who die in this country annually. As our nation marks Veterans Day, Hospice of Northern Colorado deepens our commitment to increase Veterans’ access to the compassionate, high quality end-oflife care. One of the ways we’re making this happen is through our active involvement with the We Honor Veterans program, an
HHH
innovative program of the National Hospice and Palliative Care Organization that was created in collaboration with the Department of Veterans Affairs. Hospice of Northern Colorado launched the We Honor Veterans Program in the beginning of 2015 and has had the privilege to thank more than 52 veterans by offering them our sincere thanks and appreciation through a pinning ceremony. The pinning ceremony is coordinated to enable the family and staff to be present for the ceremony. Veterans are invited to share some of their stories, if they wish, which gives our staff insight as to the importance of each Veteran’s military service. Hospice of Northern Colorado staff will then thank the Veteran for the sacrifices they have made and gift them with a Veteran pin they can wear to remind them of our sincere appreciation.
To all our nation’s Veterans, THANK YOU. We hope this program will inspire not only our staff, but everyone to say “thank you” to our country’s Veterans. Not just on November 11, but all year long.
Thank you Hospice of Northern Colorado for your service to Weld County!
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National Hospice Month | November 2015
Ten Facts About Hospice Care
You May Not Know Some people have the wrong idea about hospice care. They think that hospice is only about dying and that hospice is the place you go when there’s nothing more to be done. Nothing could be further from the truth. Hospice helps people with a life-limiting illness focus on living as fully as possible for as long as possible.
Please Join Us On Thursday, December 3, 2015 6 p.m. (program begins at 6:30 p.m.)
Hospice of Northern Colorado Administrative Office 2726 W 11th St Rd, Greeley, CO 80631
A Holiday Memorial Event Remembering Lost Loved Ones
(970) 352-8487 - www.HospiceofNorthernColorado.org
1. Hospice is not a place—it’s high-quality care that focuses on comfort and quality of life. 2.
Hospice is paid for by Medicare, Medicaid, and most insurance plans. Fear of costs should never prevent a person from accessing hospice care.
Sponsored By: All proceeds benefit Hospice of Northern Colorado’s programs.
3. Hospice serves anyone with a life-limiting illness, regardless of age or type of illness. 4. Hospice provides expert medical care as well as spiritual and emotional support to patients and families. 5.
Research has shown that the majority of Americans would prefer to be at home at the end of life—hospice makes this possible for most people.
6. Hospice serves people living in nursing homes and assisted living facilities. 7. Hospice patients and families can receive care for six months or longer. 8. A person may keep his or her referring physician involved while receiving hospice care.
There is no better time to say THANK YOU for your 37 years of support!
9. Hospice offers grief and bereavement services to family members to help them adjust to the loss in their lives. 10. Research has shown people receiving hospice care can live longer than similar patients who do not opt for hospice.
Source: National Hospice and Palliative Care Organization
National Hospice Month | November 2015
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HAND IN HAND, together WE CAN MAKE A DIFFERENCE. Iâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;m proud to support Hospice of Northern Colorado. I believe in the power of good.
Sue Helfrich 970-353-8572 1120 38th Ave., Ste. 2 Greeley, CO suehelfrich@allstate.com
Š 2015 Allstate Insurance Co.
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Giving back to your community is good for everyone.
National Hospice Month | November 2015