Resources for Caregivers and Families
Hospice and palliative care resources to help you provide the best care for your loved one.
Caring for Someone You Love
When someone you love is facing a serious illness, caregiving can be one of the most meaningful experiences of your life. But it can also be physically, emotionally, and mentally exhausting.
We understand the questions, worries, and responsibilities that come with caring for a loved one. You do not have to navigate this journey alone. Our skilled and compassionate team is here to support not only the patient, but the entire family, every step of the way.
Whether you need education, emotional support, practical assistance, or simply someone to listen, our team is here for you.
Understanding Your Loved One's Needs
Caregiver Education
The more you understand what your loved one is experiencing, the more confident and prepared you can feel as a caregiver.
Our team provides education and guidance about:
- Managing symptoms and medications
- Understanding changes that may occur during illness
- Personal care and comfort measures
- Nutrition and hydration concerns
- Equipment and supplies available in the home
- What to expect throughout the hospice journey
Our nurses, social workers, aides, chaplains, and therapists are always available to answer questions and provide support.
Healthcare Decisions and Planning
Harbor social workers provide emotional support and practical guidance for patients and families. They can assist with:
- Advance care planning
- Medical power of attorney and healthcare decisions
- Community resources
- Financial concerns and insurance questions
- Family communication and care planning
It is important that conversations regarding medical care and wishes are held as early as possible. Documents such as Advance Directives, Power of Attorney, and Do Not Resuscitate Forms serve a vital role in assuring that a patient’s wish and care that is provided are in alignment.
Volunteers: Extra Support When You Need It
Our volunteers offer companionship and practical support for patients and caregivers alike.
Volunteers may:
- Sit with patients while caregivers take a break
- Read, play games, or listen to music
- Assist with errands
- Provide companionship and conversation
- Offer emotional support and a caring presence
Sometimes, even a short break can make a meaningful difference.
The Circle of Care
Our Circle of Care program offers complimentary therapies to support comfort and quality of life beyond traditional medical care.
These therapies may include:
- Massage Therapy
- Music Therapy
- Art Therapy
- Reiki Therapy
- Virtual Reality
These services can reduce pain, anxiety, stress, and emotional distress while bringing moments of peace, connection, and comfort to patients and families.
Caring for Yourself Matters Too
Caregivers often place their own needs last, but your well-being is important.
Simple acts of self-care can help sustain you throughout the caregiving journey:
- Accept help when it is offered
- Rest when you can
- Eat nourishing meals
- Stay connected with family and friends
- Take short breaks when needed
- Reach out for emotional support
Caring for yourself allows you to continue caring for the person you love.
Grief Support Before and After Loss
Grief support is available free of charge to anyone in our community who has experienced a loss.
Through the Bob and Merle Scolnik Healing Center, we offer:
- Individual grief counseling
- Family support
- Grief support groups
- Educational resources
- Special remembrance events
Because support should continue long after a loss occurs.
Support at Any Time - 24/7
Questions and concerns don’t always happen during business hours – A nurses is available 24 hours a day, 7 days a week, to provide guidance, answer questions, and respond to urgent needs.
No matter the time of day, you are never alone.