الأحد، 20 يناير 2019

Tips For Offering Terminal Illness Support In Austin TX

By Linda Graham


Being diagnosed with an incurable disease is hard on both the patient and their families. It is mentally, physically and economically exhausting. However, the burden can be made more comfortable for the patient through several measures. Supporting the patient not only improves their quality of life but also reduces the likelihood of further complications. Here is how everyone can provide terminal illness support in Austin TX.

Recognizing and accepting that the sickness is real is the first step. For most people, it is easier to live in denial and to handle the patient as if nothing has happened. The patient needs gentle care, so it is necessary to find out more about the condition they are dealing with and to seek help on how to approach the situation when clueless. Empathy must always be applied.

The presence of family and friends often enhances the quality of life for patients. It involves making the patient understand that they have people to talk to and to walk the arduous journey with. Presence does not imply always engaging the patient. Sometimes, presence is felt even in silence. The knowledge that there is still someone to lean on is very assuring for most patients.

Supporting a patient means listening to them. They may have extreme feelings and emotions as they face the motion of their sickness. They may express feelings of anger and fear and may seek to divulge the details of their will. A safe and open space should be provided for the patient to talk about anything. Where there is need, suitable professionals should be contacted and availed to handle the technical aspects of their wishes. A good listener must not ask leading questions.

Supporting a person with a chronic condition means avoiding being excessively optimistic. The prognosis for incurable diseases is often not good. Most patients in this state have a limited time on earth. Pushing for overly positive discussions often prompt feelings of anger, fear, and may make one doubt their faith.

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.

Long-term chronic diseases make life difficult and painful. The hardship can be lessened by providing adequate care and support to the patient. Keeping them aware and involved is always better than secluding them. The patient must be respected, listened to, loved and affirmed.




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