Day Hospice
Day care is one of the specialist services provided by St. Vincent's Hospice for patients living in the community.
The purpose of the Day Hospice is to support patients and their carers. When people are living with a life-limiting diagnosis many fears, anxieties, and questions arise, and life may seem to have been turned upside down. Coming to the Day Hospice provides companionship, and social support which helps reduce the send of social isolation. It gives the opportunity to get to know staff and become familiar with the Hospice. It can also give welcome respite to family and carers. The Day Hospice allows you time to talk about problems that are important to you in comfortable and safe surroundings, and with the support of a team of specially trained staff, helping to make life more bearable.
The multidisciplinary team is led by the Day Care sister Brona McGee and includes specially trained nurses, doctors, chaplains, family support workers, and other professionals, supported by volunteers.
When you are referred to the Day Care, you will be contact within two working days, and then visited at home by a member of the nursing team within seven days. The purpose of the visit is to assess your needs in order to plan your care effectively.
Attending the Day Hospice allows your medical and nursing needs to be closely monitored, and staff maintain close contact with your GP and community nurse. Please remember to bring an up to date note of all your medicines and any medication you need to take while at Day Care.
Day Care is open on Monday, Wednesday, Thursday and Friday, and has places for up to 10 patients each day between 10am and 3pm. Attendance will be discussed and planned with yourself and your family. Most patients attend one day per week, but attendance can be more frequent depending on individual needs. One our of volunteer drivers will pick you up at home and take you back at the end of the day.
What happens at Day Hospice ?
Day Care offers you the opportunity to talk with specialist nursing staff and other professionals. You will be able to see a doctor for advice and treatment of symptoms if necessary. There is also the chance to have complementary therapies including aromatherapy, massage, reflexology and acupuncture. You may choose to socialise, or visit the hairdresser, or have a manicure. Activities, such as group outings, visiting entertainment, or having time just chatting are important features of the Day Hospice. You should use whichever part of the service you wish. Attendance at day care is based on need and will be reviewed regularly.