Aster Estates is expanding its services to include end-of-life care by collaborating with the three local and area hospice agencies.

Pam Lewis, owner of Aster Estates and registered nurse, said this new offering is available to anyone who lives at the home-plus residence, 155 NW 10th Ave., just north of the Great Bend city limits on North McKinley.

“This service allows them to stay in the comfort of their home with the support of hospice personnel who are experts in this type of specialized care,” Lewis said. “Our professional and compassionate staff collaborates with hospice agencies to offer the best end-of-life care possible.”

An important part of that care is for the patient to be able to count on familiar faces.

“Aster Estates and hospice agencies strive to ensure the same nurse and aide care for a resident,” Lewis explained. “Caregivers get to know patients’ likes and dislikes, which enhances their comfort level.

“The goal is for each person to maintain their quality of life with people they know and trust. Aster Estates offers continuity, comfort and security.”

Lewis noted that hospice patients can have family members visit Aster Estates at any time. “Even if someone wants to sleep over to be close to their loved one, we will make arrangements for that to happen,” said Lewis, who lives at the home-plus residence.

Hospice care is designed for people who have a life-limiting illness with a life expectancy of up to six months. The patient has chosen to focus on comfort instead of treatment.

Illnesses that sometimes lead to hospice care include heart disease, respiratory diseases, AIDS/HIV, Alzheimer’s/dementia, liver/renal failure, neurologic diseases, cancer and stroke.

Hospice agencies provide registered nurses; certified nurse’s aides; medical equipment; and social workers who help with finances, power of attorney and funeral arrangements. Chaplains also are available for the asking. An RN and case manager conduct an initial evaluation for the patient and family.

“Your family physician is also involved in hospice care,” Lewis noted. “We encourage every member of the hospice team to be engaged with your care and treatment.”

Once someone qualifies for hospice care, the services are available 24 hours a day, every day of the year.

“When we need a hospice representative to be here, all we have to do is call,” Lewis said. “I can serve as a liaison between the family and the hospice agency at any time.”

In most instances, an RN visits the patient at least twice a week but will come every day when circumstances call for it. Nurse’s aides are on a schedule to provide personal care and socialization.

“It is important to underscore that the hospice patient and/or family can call for assistance any time,” Lewis said. “They never have to worry about the justification for the call. Maybe you are scared and just need a hand to hold. If you think hospice can help for any reason whatsoever, we will contact them immediately.”