There is always something that physical, occupational and/or speech therapy can do to provide function or comfort to the patient who is terminally ill. Those patients who make the most of their remaining time usually experience the highest quality of life. Hospice is about improving the quality of life and providing comfort care, even if a “cure” for the disease cannot be made
- Maximizing functional ability and comfort to enhance quality of life
- Introducing adaptive methods to everyday activities to accommodate the patient’s specific needs
- Proper instruction in walking, transferring, and using the bathroom to ensure patient and caregiver safety
- Exercises to help reduce pain and maximize mobility
- Speech therapies for patients who have difficulty swallowing food, speaking or communicating in any way