Daughter says at-home care a ‘godsend’ for Lemont parents with dementia
Nicole Hartley, lead nurse practitioner for Lightways’ serious illness care program, checks the vitals of Bob Jolly at his home on Wednesday March 6, 2024, in Lemont. (Gary Middendorf/[email protected])
The couple receives services from Lightways Hospice and Serious Illness Care in Joliet
By Denise M. Baran-Unland
A Lemont resident is considering changing careers one day, thanks to the wonderful care a Joliet hospice is giving her parents.
Kathy Jenner cares for her parents in her home – and both have dementia. Jenner said her dad, Robert Jolly, 87, entered the serious illness care program at Lightways Hospice and Serious Illness Care in Joliet two years ago.
Jenner said her mother, Carole Jolly, 84, entered the program several months ago.
Lightways Hospice and Serious Illness Care, formerly known as Joliet Area Community Hospice, offers serious illness care program for people experiencing advanced, chronic, or life-limiting illnesses, including dementia.
Services may include managing cancer-related pain, symptom management, understanding goals of care and medication choices and care coordination, said Lisa Heiy, director of Lightways’ serious illness care program.
“A lot of times his behavior was extremely concerning and distressing, even for him, let alone us living with him. And I think that, without that support, I would have gone to the ER at times.”
— Kathy Jenner of Lemont, whose father with dementia receives care from Lightways Hospice and Serious Illness Care in Joliet
Jenner said when a doctor recommended she seek either hospice or palliative care for her father, she researched her options and asked friends and colleagues — Jenner works in health care — for recommendations. Lightways was the top recommendation, so Jenner reached out.
The Healing Power of Integrative Therapies in Hospice Care
When a person enters hospice care, the focus shifts from curative treatment to comfort, dignity, and quality of life. At this stage, integrative therapies—such as aromatherapy, massage therapy, and music therapy—play a unique and vital role in supporting not only patients, but also their families and care teams.
Hospice and Palliative care Nutrition
A hospice dietitian plays a vital role in enhancing the quality of life for patients receiving care, whether at home or in a facility. Dietitians can assist in developing individualized nutrition plans tailored to the patient’s specific medical conditions, treatment goals, and personal preferences, particularly addressing symptoms like loss of appetite and nausea.
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Receiving a diagnosis of Amyotrophic Lateral Sclerosis (ALS) can be life-altering and deeply overwhelming. ALS is a progressive neurodegenerative disease that affects nerve cells in the brain and spinal cord, gradually impairing muscle control. While there is currently no cure, there is hope in the form of compassionate, supportive care. Serious Illness Care or Palliative Care offers an essential layer of support for individuals living with ALS and their families—starting from diagnosis and throughout the journey.