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When you’ve heard a terminal diagnosis, or this is happening to someone you love, it’s a highly emotional time. We understand, and we see it as a privilege to support you and your family on this journey.
We offer this support with an attitude of respect, kindness, compassion and empathy.
People should be able to choose where they stay at this stage of life, and who they want to have nearby. We’re committed to providing the best possible care so you can remain in the comfort and familiar surroundings of your own home, with the people who matter most to you. This is a choice everyone should have and we strive to make it possible.
It’s reassuring to know that your live-in carer (we call them Personal Assistants) is trained in the principles of palliative care, on the practical as well as the emotional side. Your Personal Assistant knows how to keep you comfortable and they can help with personal care, taking medications, getting around and generally keeping well.
They are also supported by our team of doctors and nurses at all times, day or night.
Live-in care can help you stay together in the same home with your partner.
Choosing live-in palliative care
We fit in with you, and not the other way around. Have visitors when you want to, choose your own meals, and set your own schedule.
Staying in your home means staying close to your family when you want to, and having privacy.
It’s also a great comfort to keep your pet and know they are settled happily at home, too.
And if you wish, your Personal Assistant can help with jobs around the house, such as cooking, laundry and cleaning.
Sometimes you just need someone to share past-times that you enjoy, or to chat with. You’ll find your Personal Assistant gets it just right, offering companionship and a listening ear when you’re in the mood for company, and giving you space when that’s what you want.
Private GP and co-ordinated care
In addition to everyday help at home, excellent medical and nursing care is essential.
Everyone nearing the end of life should have a care plan that reflects their wishes, preserves their dignity and keeps them comfortable. You should also have a team of different professionals who work together. And they need to be available any time of the day or night.
With Vitality live-in care, a private GP service is always included at no extra cost. Your private GP will listen to you and draw up a care plan with you, or review your current one. They are always available to help you, your family and your care team.
In addition, our qualified nurses are on hand to advise you and your family, support your Personal Assistant and provide care in your home when needed.
Your Vitality live-in care team is available 24/7, giving you and your family complete peace of mind.
We will always work with your usual GP, your palliative care team, and the hospice. We are all there to support your family through this time, too.
We’ve invested in smart technology that helps all of the professionals involved in your care stay up to date on your situation, your needs and your wishes. You can also access this information and share it with your partner or family if you wish. That way you don’t have to keep repeating your story, and everyone is always on the same page.
We can also use this smart technology to exchange information with your NHS GP, so that we’re all working together and giving you our very best.
The little things matter
The small details are important, too. Having your favourite flowers, gentle lights, familiar smells and your own warm, comfy duvet gives comfort and reassurance. So does the gentle murmur of familiar voices. Whatever makes you feel safe and comfortable, we will aim to do.
Eating and drinking should be a pleasure not a problem, so we‘ll prepare nourishing meals and snacks that appeal to your individual tastes.
Your Personal Assistant is also there to support your close family and friends, in a gentle, open and honest way. We feel this support is invaluable, and it often helps with the grieving process.
If you would like more information on dealing with a terminal diagnosis visit the Sue Ryder website.