Hospice care is for patients nearing the end of their lives and wanting to do so in a comfortable, safe environment. This comfort is incredibly important, as it is integral to supporting patients’ physical and emotional needs during this time of uncertainty. If you are designing a hospice facility, here is a guide to creating a comforting space. The features we discuss will enhance the quality of care and ease the emotional journey of patients and their loved ones.
Hire Empathetic Staff
Hiring empathetic individuals ensures that patients receive compassionate care and emotional support. Staff members should exhibit excellent communication skills, patience, and kindness. They must understand the significance of providing comfort and dignity to patients during their final stages.
Invest in Comfortable Equipment and Furniture
Quality equipment and furniture play a vital role in patient comfort. For instance, there’s a difference between hospital beds and long-term care beds, the latter needing to be much more comfortable and suitable for long periods of rest.
You should also provide recliners and chairs with ergonomic support to prevent discomfort for patients and their visitors. It’s equally important to select furniture with soft, calming fabrics.
Allow Lots of Natural Light
Natural light can really elevate mood and well-being. It promotes a sense of openness and positivity, combatting the heaviness that can be present in facilities facing the reality of death.
Installing large windows or skylights can invite the sun’s warmth into the space, creating a serene and uplifting atmosphere.
Emphasize Homey Interior Design
A homelike aesthetic can make your facility feel less clinical and more nurturing. Use soft, neutral colors and introduce artwork and plants to breathe life into the rooms. Additionally, lay down rugs, add comfortable sofas, and drape cozy blankets. Essentially, you want the facility to feel like a home and each room to feel like a bedroom. When patients feel at home, it can alleviate anxiety.
Accommodate Psychological and Spiritual Needs
Your facility should employ counselors and spiritual advisors who can offer support to patients wanting this type of care. Additionally, provide spaces for quiet reflection, meditation, or prayer to respect and accommodate diverse beliefs and practices.
Creating a comforting hospice facility is important to support the emotional and physical needs of patients nearing the end of their lives. Though a challenging concept to address, this guide offers a few simple ways your facility can prioritize comfort for this type of care.
