Caregiver Education Fair
A friend multiplies joy and divides sorrows.
Caring for the Caregiver Education Fair
On Friday, November 12, 2010, the HOSPICE&PALLIATIVE/CARING FOR THE CAREGIVER Education Fair was held in the Health Science Library conference room. 75+ VA staff attended the event which focused on care giving and the needs of Hospice/Palliative Care Veterans. A continuous flow of dedicated staff and volunteers viewed the many posters depicting Hospice/Palliative Care and Bereavement Information as well as Caregiver education on ways to relieve stress; Caring for the Caregiver and balancing Care giving, Family and Work.
“Palliative care benefits both Veterans and their families,” said Jolene Renda, VISN 12 Palliative Care Coordinator. “It is not limited to Hospice care, palliative care can be provided at the same time as curative treatment.”
Palliative care (pronounced pal-lee-uh-tiv) is the medical specialty focused on improving overall quality of life for patients and families facing serious illness. Emphasis is placed on intensive communication, pain and symptom management, and coordination of care. Hospice is a model of care that focuses on relieving symptoms and supporting patients with a life expectancy of six months or less. Hospice involves an interdisciplinary approach to provide medical care, pain management and emotional and spiritual support. The emphasis is on comfort, not curing.
A 2010 Leadership Development project “The Many Faces of the Caregiver” book was available for those participating in the event. Artwork was on display featuring artist Deidre Scherer, who addresses the issues of aging and mortality by building a series of images based on elders and mentors in a fabric and thread medium. Many of the complimentary therapies that are utilized for inpatient veterans include:
· Labyrinths
· Aroma- Therapy
· Healing Touch
· Music Therapy, Massage
· Guided Imagery.
The library of guided imagery CDs was available for listening. A review of the recently modified Honor All Veterans policy was also displayed for staff to review. Nursing Assistants attending received partial education credit for end- of- life care curriculum requirements.
For a free copy of “The Many Faces of the Caregiver”, contact James Theres, VA public affairs officer at (608) 372-7759 or via email james.theres@va.gov.
