This week is Skilled Nursing Week, and we want to say a big THANK YOU to our friends in long-term care.
As a hospice agency, we have a unique perspective on the compassionate and caring people who work in long-term care. In extended-care facilities (ECFs), nurses are the steady presence and around-the-clock care that residents and families rely on every day. These skilled professionals not only provide medical care but also offer emotional support to people facing the challenges of aging and illness. They are quick to notice changes in a resident’s condition and speak up to ensure that each person gets the care they need. They know each resident’s history, preferences, and daily routines, and will advocate on their behalf. This insight helps hospice staff offer more personalized care. These nurses also serve as a bridge between the hospice team and the nursing home, helping everyone stay connected and informed. This close collaboration leads to better care and greater peace of mind for residents and families alike. Families also depend on these nurses for guidance and reassurance during difficult times.
For residents nearing the end-of-life, the partnership between Hospice and extended-care facilities allows for more holistic care. Hospice brings expertise in comfort-focused care, while the nursing home staff bring deep knowledge of the residents they care for. Together, they form a team that meets not only physical needs but also emotional, spiritual, and social ones. This teamwork helps make the final stage of life more peaceful for residents and less overwhelming for families. I often say: we cannot make this journey easy; it never will be. But with solid teamwork, we can make the journey less bumpy. We are so thankful for our ECF partners who provide invaluable insight and care to the residents they serve and make working as a team rewarding for all involved.