(Photo courtesy of Partners in Care)
One of the most common challenges when a loved one suffers a sudden, serious event or their medical condition becomes fragile with multiple hospitalizations, is finding the right resources to help support him – and the caregiver – once they are back home.
Serious illness can bring confusing change and lots of questions. For the patient, it can be scary to think about maintaining your own independence while also learning to rely on others. Family members will certainly wonder how it will change their lifestyle, or what they can anticipate down the road. Finally, it can be overwhelming to try to locate and navigate community resources that might be able to help.
There is help – and it is available at no cost. Transitions services from Partners In Care is a true lifeline. The program helps patients with life-limiting illnesses who might be overwhelmed and don’t know where to turn for information and resources. Transitions support comes from volunteers who are trained to provide relief and emotional support for the caregiver. They understand the situation, the details and the options that are available in the community. And, a fresh perspective can often make things a little less overwhelming!
Because of the generous volunteer program and donations from the community, transitions services from Partners In Care are offered free for the support of patients and families with life-limiting illnesses.
How to know if you or a loved one qualifies for Transitions services?
If someone you know is dealing with a medically fragile condition and struggles with any of these issues, Partners In Care can help:
• Need help finding programs, services or resources
• Need information to help make decisions or plan advanced care
• Feel isolated or lonely
For more information or for those interested in becoming a Partners In Care Transition volunteer, there will be a Summer Volunteer Training session at Partners In Care on Saturday, June 27 and Saturday, July 25. Call 541-382-5882 and ask for our Transitions community resources. To learn more, visit the Partners In Care website at partnersbend.org. Please share this information with your loved ones and friends.
Lorie Weber is the Outreach Director at Partners In Care, Central Oregon’s only independent, non-hospital based, not-for-profit hospice, home health and palliative care organization. For more information, visit partnersbend.org
