Providing Terminal Illness Support In Austin TX

By Linda Graham


Today, more people are diagnosed with incurable illnesses like Cancer unlike in the past. These diseases not only lower the quality of life of the patients but also pose economic, social and mental challenges for their families. The journey is indisputably hard, but through care from trained caregivers and other people, it becomes less strenuous. Providing terminal illness support in Austin TX is made possible when the tips explored below are applied.

The initial step is to recognize and accept that the patient has been diagnosed with a terminal disease instead of pretending that nothing is happening. For most people, showing care is hard because they may not be sure what to discuss with the patient. There is nothing wrong with not knowing what to tell the affected person. However, one must be empathetic.

Being physically and emotionally present for the sick person is the most significant way of offering care. Presence does not mean that one must always be at their bedside. Neither does it imply always finding something to talk about with the patient. It entails the patient being confident that they have a shoulder on lean on. Sometimes, being physically there, even while quiet, is the best form of support. Whenever there are discussions, the content must not be invasive of the patients private space.

Listening to the patient is another great form of care. Patients have fears and plans, some of which concern death. Open space should be provided for them to express their feelings and opinions. It is important to avoid asking them leading questions. Instead, help them access the professionals they need, for example, attorneys and spiritual leaders.

Patients suffering from long-term chronic conditions often have a poor prognosis. They are in the process of understanding and accepting that they have limited time remaining on earth. For this reason, one must avoid dishing out overly positive statements. Statements that allude to complete healing, for example, may be unreasonable and induce negative emotions in the patient.

One must always be polite and courteous when dealing with a terminally ill patient. At this point, most patients have reconnected with their spirituality and religion. This must always be respected regardless of the differences in the choice of religion and beliefs. When they ask for something that is reasonably attainable, such as the services of an attorney or religious leader, it is prudent to provide it. When asked to leave, the best option is to politely exit from the premises.

It is necessary to affirm the patient. Diseases bring feelings of helplessness and hopelessness. The patient needs to know that their family and friends treasure them. This can be done by taking time to recall the good old days. They should also be reminded of their greatest achievements. Doing this triggers joy and happiness as well as a feeling of satisfaction that one has not wasted their lives.

In most cases, being diagnosed with an incurable disease means that death is fast approaching. During the last months of such a patient, their caregivers, family and circle must offer comfort and care. For most people, this is hard because they do not know how to approach the situation. With the tips explored above, being supportive becomes easier.




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