Aromatherapy and pet therapy are non-pharmacological “alternative therapies” used in hospice to nurture emotional well-being and provide sensory comfort when a cure is no longer possible.
Aromatherapy helps patients in the following ways:
- Promotes Relaxation: It uses calming scents, such as lavender or chamomile, to create a peaceful environment.
- Eases Restlessness: A few drops of lavender oil in a diffuser can help gently soothe patients experiencing anxiety or agitation.
Pet Therapy supports patients through:
- Unconditional Companionship: Trained therapy animals visit patients at the bedside to provide comfort and friendship.
- Emotional Uplift: These visits are designed to lift spirits and reduce feelings of isolation.
These therapies are delivered by trained volunteers or therapists under the guidance of the hospice care team. They work alongside medical treatments to address the emotional and spiritual dimensions of care, helping to manage anxiety and create moments of joy for the patient.
Related FAQs
-
What are Practical Ways to Assist with a Loved One’s Daily Comfort while They are in Hospice?
Read More »: What are Practical Ways to Assist with a Loved One’s Daily Comfort while They are in Hospice?Assisting with a loved one’s daily comfort involves a combination of environmental safety, physical support, and emotional presence. We believe that care always matters, and even small adjustments can significantly increase the wellbeing of someone near to you. To help…
-
What Documents and Information should I have Ready for the First Hospice Home Visit?
Read More »: What Documents and Information should I have Ready for the First Hospice Home Visit?To ensure your first visit is as productive and focused as possible, we recommend gathering several key documents and pieces of information ahead of time. Having these ready allows our interdisciplinary team to confirm eligibility and immediately begin focusing on…
-
How can I Set up a Comfortable and Safe Environment in the Home for a Hospice Patient?
Read More »: How can I Set up a Comfortable and Safe Environment in the Home for a Hospice Patient?Creating a supportive environment is a vital step in ensuring your loved one remains safe and dignified at home. We treat your family like our own, and we recommend the following steps to prepare your living space: If you have…
-
What Va Burial and Funeral Benefits are Available for a Veteran Who Dies at Home?
Read More »: What Va Burial and Funeral Benefits are Available for a Veteran Who Dies at Home?For a veteran who passes away at home, we understand how important it is to secure the support they earned through their service. The U.S. Department of Veterans Affairs provides several key benefits to assist your family with final arrangements:…
-
Does the Va Cover the Costs of a Funeral or Cremation for a Veteran?
Read More »: Does the Va Cover the Costs of a Funeral or Cremation for a Veteran?Yes, the VA provides a burial allowance designed to reimburse out-of-pocket funeral or cremation costs. This benefit covers various arrangements, including traditional burial, cremation, burial at sea, and donation to medical schools, provided that no other government funds were used…