Denton County Living Well Magazine January/February 2017 | Page 18

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 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
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 ( 940 ) 349-5900 | gethelp @ vnatexas . org | vnatexas . org