Military service is commendable and noble. But, it’s also highly demanding and can take a lifelong toll on a veteran’s physical, mental, and emotional health. The good news is that hospice care is available for our nation’s veterans to help them increase their quality of life and mitigate the symptoms and pain associated with medical conditions, including PTSD, chronic pain, TBIs, and much more.
What’s Hospice Care for Veterans All About?
Hospice care is a multi-faceted approach that delivers medical, emotional, and spiritual support as well as the coordination of care among a team of physicians, nurses, case managers, and therapists. Hospice aims to create a comprehensive treatment plan that enhances comfort for the patient and their loved ones.
Our nation’s veterans deserve a higher degree of care that should be reflected in hospice care. VA benefits cover hospice care to help veterans address the physical, mental, and emotional trauma many experienced during and after their service.
Some of the most common issues that hospice care assists with at the end of a veteran’s life include:
- Chronic pain.
- Presumptive diseases — according to the VA, these diseases are associated with exposure to chemicals, such as Agent Orange and herbicides.
- Cancer.
- Traumatic brain injury.
- Post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD).
- Depression.
- Survivor’s guilt.
To treat the broad range of physical and emotional conditions that arise from military service, hospice care can offer a vast array of services, including pain management, physical therapy, and other forms of therapy, including music and animal therapy. Mental and emotional issues are treated with counseling and family support. Hospice care also provides spiritual support to veterans and their families as they grapple with impending death and the grief that comes with it.
Colorado Palliative & Hospice Care Can Help
Hospice care is focused on providing comprehensive care for veterans and their loved ones as they enter this new chapter of life. Contact us today if you are interested in learning more about how hospice care can help veterans live a comfortable and peaceful end of life.