Navigating End-of-Life Care: Understanding Hospice Services

Host: Mindy McCulley, MS Extension Specialist for Instructional Support, Family and Consumer Sciences Extension, University of Kentucky  Guests: Brittany Thompson, Provider Liaison, Bluegrass Care Navigators and Amy Kostelic, PhD Associate Extension Professor for Adult Development and Aging Season 7, Episode 20 In this insightful episode of Talking FACS Brittany Thompson, Bluegrass Care Navigators Provider Liaison, and Dr. Amy Kostelic, Associate Extension Professor for Adult Development and Aging, discuss the critical role of hospice care in enhancing quality of life during one's final months. The episode explores the comprehensive services offered by hospice, emphasizing its team-based approach that includes medical, emotional, and spiritual support. Brittany clarifies common misconceptions about hospice, highlighting it as a service rather than a place, and explains how it aims to provide comfort and fulfill the wishes of patients and their families. Listeners will learn about the eligibility criteria for hospice care, the importance of early planning, and the ways hospice supports families even after the passing of a loved one. The conversation also addresses societal challenges in discussing end-of-life transitions and underscores the value of hospice in improving caregiver well-being and reducing depression among the bereaved. This episode is a valuable resource for anyone seeking to understand end-of-life care options and the profound impact of hospice services. Tune in to gain a deeper understanding of how hospice care can provide comfort and support during life's most challenging transitions. For more information about Bluegrass Care Navigators: Bluegrass Care Navigators For more information about palliative care resources, listen to Cancer Conversations Understanding Palliative and Supportive Care Connect with FCS Extension through any of the links below for more information about any of the topics discussed on Talking FACS. Kentucky Extension Offices UK FCS Extension           Website           Facebook           Instagram           FCS Learning Channel