News & Educational Resources

Do Hospice Patients Need Hospital Care: A Caregiver’s Guide

One of the most frequent questions caregivers ask is whether a person receiving hospice care can still go to the hospital. The short answer is yes, it depends on the situation and what your goals of care are. Understanding how hospice works, and how Medicare and Medicaid coverage apply, can help caregivers feel more confident and prepared when unexpected situations arise.

Wife hugging husband

Understanding Dementia Care: The Role of Palliative Care and When Hospice Is Needed

Dementia is a progressive, life-limiting condition that affects memory, thinking, communication, and eventually the body’s ability to function. As dementia advances, individuals often require increasing levels of support as the brain gradually loses its ability to coordinate everyday activities such as eating, walking, swallowing, and communicating.

The Grief Experience in the Beginning

The Grief Experience in the Beginning

After losing a loved one, many describe grief in similar ways: “My world stopped while everything else kept going,” or “It feels like the ground was pulled out from under me.” Some say it’s like losing a part of themselves. Grief affects every part of a person, emotional, mental, physical, and spiritual—often bringing intense feelings, racing thoughts, trouble concentrating, and changes in sleep or appetite. It can leave people feeling overwhelmed, disoriented, and exhausted.

The Heart of Hospice: How Volunteers Make the Difference

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.

read more
Finding Comfort and Support for your Veteran

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.

read more
Understanding Inpatient Hospice Services: A Look Inside Inpatient Hospice Unit and Levels of Care

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.

read more
Hospice and Palliative care Nutrition

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.

read more

Join our email list for news,
caregiver resources and upcoming events!