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/gmiddendorf@shawmedia.com)

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.

Read the full story at Shaw Local

Understanding Serious Illness Care (Palliative Care): A Compassionate Approach to Living Well

When faced with a serious illness, patients and their families often feel overwhelmed by the medical system, symptom burden, and emotional stress. In such moments, Serious Illness Care or palliative care can be a powerful, supportive ally—yet it remains one of the most misunderstood services in healthcare. This blog explores what palliative care truly is, its benefits, why early enrollment matters, and the common myths that surround it.

read more

Compassionate Care for Kids: Understanding Pediatric Hospice and Palliative Care Services

When a child is diagnosed with a life-limiting or complex medical condition, families face an emotionally overwhelming and uncertain path. In these moments, pediatric palliative and hospice care can offer comfort, guidance, and meaningful support. Yet, many families are unfamiliar with what these services are—or worse, fear them due to common misconceptions.

read more

Atención compasiva para niños: Comprensión de los servicios de cuidados paliativos y hospicio pediátricos

Cuando a un niño se le diagnostica una afección médica compleja o que limita su vida, las familias se enfrentan a un camino emocionalmente abrumador e incierto. En estos momentos, los cuidados paliativos pediátricos y los cuidados paliativos pueden ofrecer consuelo, orientación y apoyo significativo. Sin embargo, muchas familias no están familiarizadas con lo que son estos servicios o, lo que es peor, les temen debido a conceptos erróneos comunes.

read more