Talk About End of Life Wishes Now

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I am a Nurse Practitioner working for a PACE program in MA. Just about a year ago my 82 year old mother who was living alone had an IMI and spent nearly a month in the ICU. Post hospitalization it was clear that she could not continue to live alone. She moved in with my husband and I and was enrolled in the PACE program. It has been absolutely the right choice for her. She attends 1 day per week but is happy to know that she can see her provider whenever she has a problem. When she came home from the hospital we were unsure how long she would live and therefore had the difficult discussion about end of life care. From a caregiver perspective, I am happy to know what her wishes are and to be able to support them. Though I will be devistated when she passes away, I will take great comfort in knowing we did it "Her way"

Judith Lengieza of MA 11:48AM June 14, 2010

I have worked for a Pace program for the past five years in MA, these programs are unique, they help the patients and their families, from acute care, homecare, respite, social service, etc etc, I love my job. I will be moving to SW Florida in the fall, I will miss these dear patients and my job. If your elderly loved can qualify for a PACE program it may be the right choice for your family.

Cheryl Westerman of MA 6:06PM June 13, 2010