Unique Hospice provides comprehensive and individualized nutrition support for patients and families dealing with a terminal illnesses. Our team of licensed dietitians works closely with the patient’s physician and hospice care team to develop a personalized plan that takes into account the specific needs and goals of each patient.
Why is Nutrition in Hospice Care Important?
Healthy nutrition is important for everyone, but it is especially important for people who are dealing with a terminal illness. Proper nutrition can help patients maintain their strength and energy, increase energy levels, improve their mood and quality of life, and help prolong their life.
Changes in Diet During End-of-Life
Patients with terminal illnesses may have trouble eating for a variety of reasons, and loss of appetite is normal with age. They may have difficulty chewing or swallowing, may be less mobile and unable to cook for themselves, or may have dental problems that make eating painful. Many elders take medications that can decrease appetite or cause nausea or other gastrointestinal side effects. All of these factors can lead to weight loss and malnutrition, and a hospice dietitian can help combat these struggles.
End-of-Life Nutrition Care Plans
As a hospice or palliative care patient, you will have nutrition needs that must be taken into account as part of your overall care plan. Hospice dietitians are specially trained to assess each patient’s individual nutritional needs. This may include changes to diet, supplements, or even intravenous (IV) nutrition, and this plan may be revised as the condition changes.
Our hospice nutrition care plans include:
- A comprehensive assessment of the patient’s nutritional needs
- Development of a personalized nutrition plan
- Education and counseling for patients and families on nutrition and end-of-life care
- Management of symptoms related to poor appetite, malnutrition, and dehydration
- Monitoring of the patient’s response to the nutrition plan
Palliative and Hospice Nutrition Counseling Services
In addition to developing tailored care plans, our hospice dietitians also provide palliative and hospice nutrition counseling services to patients and families dealing with terminal illnesses. We understand that this is a difficult time and we are here to support you in any way possible.
We can provide information and resources on a variety of topics, including:
- Dealing with changes in appetite
- Managing nausea and vomiting
- Addressing diarrhea or constipation
- Coping with taste changes
- Getting adequate nutrition while minimizing pain and discomfort
We can also provide guidance on how to best communicate your nutritional needs to your care team. Our goal is to make sure that you are as comfortable and well-nourished as possible.
Home Care Nutrition Services at Unique Hospice
Unique Hospice can provide you with the nutrition care and counseling you or your loved one needs to maintain quality of life. We understand that managing a serious illness can be difficult, and we are here to support you and your family. Contact us today at 626-335-7077 for a consultation or to learn more about our home care nutrition services.