Support for patients and families
We understand that this may be a difficult time for patients and families. There are many services, programs, and resources that can enhance quality and meaning to the last moments of life.
Common questions
Dealing with grief
Celebrating the upcoming holidays can be a very difficult time for people who have experienced the death of a loved one. Simin Beg, MD, gives some tips for coping with grief during the holidays.
Helpful resources
Spectrum Health does not control or endorse the information on these sites, nor do these sites endorse the information contained here.
Caring Connections: A service of the National Hospice and Palliative Care Organization. This site assists patients and families with end-of-life decision making.
Dying Well: Defining Wellness Through the End of Life Resources for people facing life-limiting illness, as well as for their families and caregivers. Includes articles and resources, Ira Byock's popular book and discussion guide, and a grief series.
Grand Rapids End of Life Coalition: The mission of the Greater Grand Rapids End of Life Coalition is to increase awareness and create opportunities for improving end of life care within the greater Grand Rapids community.
Hospice Foundation of America: Nonprofit organization offers books, videos, brochures, a newsletter about hospice and living with grief, and a Guide to Recalling and Telling Your Life Story.
Hospice Net: Offers comprehensive articles about many end-of-life issues. Provides information and support for patients, families and caregivers.
National Association for Home Care: Trade organization representing home care agencies, hospices and home care aide organizations. Offers information on how to choose a home care provider, hospice care, rights of patients and more.
National Hospice and Palliative Care Organization: Information about hospice, how to select a hospice care program, communicating end-of-life wishes, Medicare and more. Call the Helpline at 800.658.8898 or view the Web site to find a hospice program close to you. The Web site has full text of Consumer Guide to Selecting a Hospice Program, Hospice Care and the Medicare Hospice Benefit, and Communicating Your End of Life Wishes.
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