Helping Hands Blog

Hospice. An intimidating word to hear at first, and one that leads to a new chapter life. If you research where the word “hospice originates from and has different meanings, you will be able to understand why this journey is not something to fear. It is also not a journey you have to experience alone.

The word hospice comes from the Latin word “hospis” meaning host and guest. In 1842, the term hospice was used to identify a place where the chronically ill would receive care. Now, the term hospice is defined as “care designed to give supportive care to people in the final phase of a terminal illness and focus on comfort and quality of life, rather than cure” (www.medicinenet.com). No matter which definition you look up, you will always find one underlying factor that is connected back to this service – Support.

When it comes to choosing the right kind of care for yourself or a loved one, it’s important to know what options are available, and which option provides the kind of care you need. While some care benefits and services are similar and can sometimes overlap, there are still important differences to understand.

Compassion. It is a word that we use in our vocabulary every day and something that the majority of us strive to have. The team at Gulfside is no different. From nurses to doctors and social workers, the goal is to be compassionate and towards every patient or family we see. After all, that is part of the Gulfside's values and mission statement. So, the Gulfside team always makes sure they take the time to listen and provide compassionate care for each patient. What is truly remarkable is when a stranger decides to give up their time to help us and demonstrates compassion by becoming a Gulfside Hospice Patient Care Volunteer.

Gone are the days where fashion or antiques have to be expensive. For nearly 30 years, Gulfside Hospice Thrift Shoppes have been providing affordable clothing, furniture, and collectible items. Residents of Pasco County and thrift shop lovers alike can visit one of the five locations located throughout Pasco County and find a great deal without breaking the bank. Not only do our thrift shops have a wide variety of items at an affordable price, but also every week there are “thriftastic” daily deals.

Comfort and care should always go hand in hand when thinking about the future. As times continue to rapidly change, so does the desire and need for the safety of our loved ones. Gone are the days where the only options to receive the benefits of long term care were to be in a hospital, nursing home, or care facility. At Gulfside, we know that nothing compares to the real comfort of home.

Grilling, fishing, and late summer nights. June kicks off the beginning of warmer weather and outside adventure. Stores have been preparing for Father’s Day by setting out cards and balloons to remind customers that the holiday is quickly approaching.

While some are planning out the perfect gift to get the special man in their life, who was not just a role model, but a protector, others may be mourning the loss of their father figure around this time of year, making June less about adventure and more about remembering a loved one who has passed.

Caregiving is a lot like taking a trip on an airplane. As you prepare to take off and head towards your destination, there are several different things you have to check off. You try to be as prepared as possible, but throughout the hustle and bustle, something slips through the cracks.

Suddenly, you remember that before you help anybody else, you should help yourself first. As humans we are bound to make mistakes, and that’s okay. When it feels as though things are getting bumpy, remind yourself that you are just one person.

For us, shopping is much more than keeping up with the latest trends or finding a new treasure to show to our loved ones. At Gulfside Hospice Thrift Shoppes, shopping makes a big difference. Our five thrift store locations have a collection of unique, boutique, and everyday items for a reasonable price. However, what is truly priceless, is what these locations give to our community and patients. By deciding to shop at one of our hospice thrift stores, the average shopper becomes an everyday hero.

“Goodbyes are only for those who love with their eyes. Because for those who love with heart and soul, there is no separation”-Rumi

Decorations. caroling, shopping. After November has come and gone, the majority of people are preparing for the holiday season. It can be easy to get caught up in all of the hustle and bustle, but it is important to remember that the holidays can be difficult. For those coping with grief and loss, December doesn’t just mark a month of cheer, but for some it marks of a month of remembrance and grief.

Fall brings colder weather and shorter days. Before we know it Thanksgiving will be here and we will be preparing for the busiest time of the year. These changes may be exciting to some, but for others, fall can be a difficult time. For individuals suffering from Alzheimer's or dementia, a change in the environment can be confusing, and frustrating.

The Alzheimer’s Association (AA) has reported approximately 5.8 million Americans are currently living with Alzheimer's disease. By 2050, this number could increase to nearly 14 million individuals. With these high numbers, it is important to stay informed about the best ways to care for individuals and loved ones who are living with this disease.

As we get older it isn't unusual for our hobbies, interests, and habits to change. After all, if we continued to like and do the same thing our whole lives it would become less interesting. These types of changes in our behavior can be fun, and connect us with others. When it comes to the behavioral changes associated with Sundowners Syndrome, we can find our loved ones isolating themselves and becoming more irritable than usual.