Collin County Living Well Magazine May/June 2017 | Page 23

KATHERINE KRAUSE Katherine is a leading voice in healthcare and senior services and the President & CEO of VNA Texas. Dear Katherine, How will I know when it is the right time for hospice care? My 88 year-old mother has cancer and is very weak. She doesn’t want radiation or chemo. ~Oldest Daughter Dear Daughter, The needs and wishes of the patient should always be the first priority. The right time for hospice is when the patient, family, and doctor agree that the treatment goal has changed from a medical cure to making the end of life as comfortable and meaningful as possible. Hospice teams of nurses, social workers, doctors, chaplains, and volunteers surround the patient and family with support, dignity, and compassion. I’m sorry you are going through such a difficult time. Dear Katherine, I’m a widow and my 3 children live far away. I’m about to be released from the hospital after foot surgery and I won’t be able to drive or do much for the next few months. I hate to bother my friends for help and I’m wondering if private care would be right for me? ~Need a Helper Dear Need a Helper, If you need help with light housekeeping, someone to drive you to a doctor’s appointment, assistance with grooming, or even someone to run some errands for you, private care is a great choice. For many it allows them to recuperate at home. With a little help from your friends at VNA, you can be completely independent! N I J H 2016 Readers’ Choice ACCREDITED VNA Hospice Care VNA Private Care VNA Hospice Care focuses on living life to its fullest and treating you with the dignity and respect you deserve. As a nonprofit, our bottom line is patient support and care provided by our highly qualified staff. VNA Private Care empowers you to age where you are most comfortable – at home. Through our personal care services, VNA Private Care is an affordable alternative to nursing homes and extended hospital stays. To schedule your free in-home informational visit [phone] | [email protected] | vnatexas.org