Initial Consultations
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Initial Consultations 〰️
Elder Care Consultation
A free 30 minute consultation will identify needs and goals for your elder years plan. From there we book packaged sessions determined during the initial consult. Are you, or is a family member, already in the throws of needing daily support? Or perhaps a higher level of care is suddenly needed? A consult can be expedited and I can walk hand in hand with you, helping to navigate the web of end-of-life planning that can suddenly present itself. Whether you know exactly what you need, or you’re not quite sure, we can work together to figure it out. Schedule a consultation through the “contact” page, or by emailing me directly, and I’ll be in touch soon.
Doula Support Consultation
During the initial consultation goals will be identified and a plan will be formulated. The difference between elder care support, and end-of-life doula support, is that elder care packages are designed to prepare you ahead of time and doula support walks you through it when there. Elder care packages are provided per session, whereas doula support is provided with an ongoing, regular basis. If interested in a free doula support consultation, reach out to me through the “contact” page, or by emailing me directly, and I’ll be in touch soon.
Elder Care Packaged Sessions
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Elder Care Packaged Sessions 〰️
Understanding Hospice
Learn what to expect from hospice, the roles of the care team members, how it is paid for, and when it might be time for a referral. With new hospice companies popping up nearly everywhere we look, it is important to know what questions to ask when searching for the right fit; as well as understanding how to advocate for your loved one once they are admitted to hospice service. This is a 90 minute session aimed at providing the crucial support needed when someone is approaching the end their life.
Planning Your Care
A 90 minute conversation focused on your needs and goals as it pertains to caregiving. Whether this is for you, or if you are assisting a loved one, we will identify options and resources available at a time when support with daily activities becomes needed. We will discuss level of care options, including the option to stay at home and what that might look like. I will provide you with a detailed summary and next step options after the completion of this session.
Final Arrangement Education and Planning
By far, the overall number one stressor I have heard from loved ones in my experience as a hospice social worker. Do not leave this for your family to decide if at all possible. What do you want done with your remains when you transition from this human experience? Options reach far beyond traditional cremation and burial. Learn about what is available in your area, as well as potential costs involved. How are remains transported long distances? What is available for veterans? What if there are no finances to cover the expense? Learn the important questions to ask when deciding and make arrangements ahead of time. A detailed summary and plan will be provided to you upon completion of this session.
Safety Planning for Aging in Place
What safety interventions should be considered when planning to remain at home as long as possible? Options can include simple home modifications, safety devices, and referrals for community resources. In this 90 minute conversation we will discuss how to help you stay at home both safely and comfortably.
Important Documents 101
This 90 minute conversation will provide education on important end of life forms and documents. To be considered include an Advance Directive for Healthcare, Living Will, POLST, Power of Attorney, Trust, Will, and potential forms related to your financial institutions. In order to increase the effectiveness of these documents in honoring your wishes, we will cover important details that are often overlooked.
Financial Considerations
What financial considerations should be taken into account when planning for our elder years? What might the care expenses look like and what resources are available to help with this cost? How can we make sure our chosen person is able to access resources if an unexpected event were to occur? What questions are wise to ask financial institutions, financial advisors, and attorneys that might get overlooked? What might final arrangement costs look like? What resources are available for veterans? This package can also provide education around the “spend down” process for Medicaid and how it can assist with the cost of care needs.
End of Life Signs and Symptoms
What is commonly experienced in the months, weeks, days, and hours leading to the conclusion of the human experience? What can we expect for ourselves and our loved ones? In this 60 minute session, learn what is normal, what are red flags, and how to advocate when needed. If you are with a good hospice then the care team will be a phenomenal support, however they cannot be bedside 24/7, often not even on a daily basis. For those supporting someone in their final chapter, this is an incredibly valuable learning opportunity. Come with questions, a notebook, and a pen. This session can be repeated as often as needed during this tender and delicate time.
Utilizing Death with Dignity
This one hour conversation will provide education on the death with dignity option available in some states. Also known as medical aid in dying, this choice allows people meeting specific criteria, along with medical support, to choose the time of their human exit. Learn about the available resources in your state, and how to move forward if you are considering this option.