Life Unscripted: The Silent Struggles of Hospice Care During COVID-19
Episode Overview
Hospice Niagara faces unique challenges due to COVID-19 restrictions. Technology is used creatively to connect residents with loved ones. Stress and grief levels are heightened for hospice residents. Remote support is crucial for families caring for loved ones at home. Human connection remains vital despite physical barriers.
"How do you make your eyes give that compassionate hug?"
What makes a recovery story truly inspiring? In this episode of Life Unscripted, host Janice Arnoldi brings to light the often-overlooked emotional struggles faced by those in hospice care during the pandemic. The episode paints a vivid picture of the challenges at Hospice Niagara, where residents, already battling life-limiting illnesses, find themselves isolated due to COVID-19 restrictions. With staff clad in full PPE, the usual comforting human touch is replaced by barriers of plastic shields and masks.
Janice is joined by guests Carol Nagy, Jeff Shaw, and Shelley Wilson, who offer a compassionate glimpse into the world of hospice care. They discuss how the team has had to adapt, finding creative ways to maintain connections between residents and their families. From window visits to virtual calls, technology has become a lifeline for many, offering a semblance of togetherness in these isolating times.
Shelley shares her experiences as a social worker, detailing how the absence of physical interaction amplifies stress and grief for both residents and their families. Meanwhile, Jeff explains the shift in providing psychosocial support remotely, emphasising the increased emotional burden on families caring for loved ones at home. Through their stories, the episode highlights the resilience of both hospice staff and families as they navigate this unprecedented situation.
It's a heartfelt reminder of the power of human connection, even when physical presence is limited. How do you maintain connections when touch is no longer an option? Tune in to find out.