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.
Why an Interdisciplinary Team Matters in Hospice Care
When someone is facing a life limiting illness, their needs extend far beyond medical care alone. Hospice care honors this reality by bringing togethera team of professionalsand volunteers from many disciplines to care for the whole person. This model, known as an interdisciplinary team, is one of the reasons hospice care is so effective and meaningful for both patients and families.
Bringing Light to Life’s Tender Moments: How Our Joyful Moments Program Makes a Lasting Impact
At Lightways Hospice and Serious Illness Care, we believe that hospice and palliative care is not only about comfort and support, it is also about honoring each person’s life, passions, and unique story. Through our Joyful Moments Program, led by our Volunteer Services team, we create meaningful experiences that bring joy, connection, and dignity to our patients and their families.
Supporting with Compassion: Essential Tips for Caregivers of Loved Ones in Hospice Care
Caring for a loved one in hospice care is one of the most meaningful—and often most challenging—acts of love a person can undertake. Hospice care focuses on comfort, dignity, and quality of life for those nearing the end of life, but it also extends vital support to families and caregivers.