Light the Way Blog
At Lightways Hospice and Serious Illness Care, we understand that navigating end-of-life care can be challenging, both for patients and their families. That’s why we’ve created this blog series—to provide valuable information, guidance, and support for those on this difficult journey.
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In our Light The Way Blog Series, we’ll explore a range of topics designed to help you better understand the compassionate services we offer, and how they can improve quality of life during the final stages of an illness. Whether you’re seeking information on when to consider hospice, how palliative care can enhance comfort, or advice on how to cope with the emotional challenges that come with caregiving, our blog aims to inform and empower.
Stay tuned for regular updates, and know that no matter where you are on your care journey, we’re here to help you navigate it with dignity, respect, and care.
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.
Facing the Holidays During Grief – Help for the Holidays
As the holiday season approaches, many grievers will experience uncertainty about how to approach the holidays, and how to cope with the increased grief reactions they experience during this time.
The Heart of Compassion: The Role of Chaplains in Hospice and Palliative Care
When people hear the word chaplain, they often think of religion. But in hospice care, chaplains represent something broader and deeply human: spiritual care—the comfort, connection, and meaning that help patients and families navigate life’s most profound moments.
How Serious Illness (Palliative) Care Empowers Those Living with Breast Cancer
Every October, the world turns pink for Breast Cancer Awareness Month — a time to celebrate survivors, remember those we have lost, and renew our commitment to early detection and comprehensive care. Yet behind the ribbons and fundraising walks lies another essential part of the breast cancer journey — one that deserves more attention: Serious Illness Care, also known as palliative care.
The Heart of Hospice: How Volunteers Make the Difference
Volunteering with a nonprofit hospice organization is not just about giving your time—it’s about making a profound difference in someone’s life. At Lightways Hospice and Serious Illness Care, our volunteers are an essential part of the care team, bringing comfort, dignity, and connection to patients and families during one of life’s most tender chapters.
The Positive Benefits of Integrative Therapies in Hospice Care for Dementia and Alzheimer’s Patients
Caring for a loved one with dementia or Alzheimer’s disease can be an emotional journey filled with challenges, uncertainty, and moments of deep tenderness.
Finding Comfort and Support for your Veteran
When a beloved veteran in your family is facing a serious illness, it is natural to be overwhelmed with questions and concerns. You want the very best care, a team that understands their unique experiences, and guidance through what can be a challenging time. At Lightways Hospice as Serious Illness Care, we understand these apprehensions, and we want you to know that you are not alone. We are deeply committed to honoring our nation’s heroes, and that commitment extends to every member of their family.
Understanding Inpatient Hospice Services: A Look Inside Inpatient Hospice Unit and Levels of Care
When a loved one enters hospice care, families are often faced with a whirlwind of emotions and decisions. One of the key considerations is where hospice care will be delivered—and for some patients, a freestanding hospice unit becomes the best option. Lightways Hospice and Serious Illness Care has a dedicated facility in Joliet, Illinois, which provides specialized, around-the-clock care in a comfortable, homelike setting.
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.