Advance Care Planning
Your wishes. Your voice. Your plan.
Planning ahead for your future care can bring peace of mind for you and the people you love. Advance Care Planning allows you to talk about what matters to you and make your wishes known before they’re needed.
The ultimate goal of Advance Care Planning is to help you capture your wishes regarding health care and dying, to ensure your wishes are respected. Hospice Muskoka uses tools such as Advance Care Planning (ACP), Goals of Care (GoC) and Person-Centered Decision Making (PCDM) to help you explore what matters most and guide decisions about your care. These essential tools should be considered before a life-limiting diagnosis, or at a minimum, when a diagnosis is received.
​
You don’t have to figure it out on your own. Hospice Muskoka offers information sessions and practical tools to help you start important conversations and create a care plan that reflects your wishes and values.
Accessing Advance Care Planning
If you're interested in learning more about Advance Care Planning or to book a group information session, email volunteercoordinator@hospicemuskoka.com.
​
To request individual services, call us at 705-204-2273 (CARE) or email intake@hospicemuskoka.com.
Palliative Options Available
End of Life Care
​
End-of-life care is provided to people who are nearing the end of their life or who have stopped treatment to cure or control their disease. It involves developing a treatment plan that addresses the physical, emotional, social, and spiritual support needs of patients and their families.
The goal of end-of-life care is to make individuals as comfortable as possible through quality care and effective pain management strategies, while honouring the end-of-life care choices they have made.
​
Hospice Muskoka abides by provincial regulations and logistics, and adheres to the standards of care defined by HPCO.
Medical Assistance in Dying (MAID)
​​
Death and dying can be difficult subjects to think and talk about. Making a decision about Medical Assistance in Dying (MAID) can be challenging and you may need help along the way. It’s important to talk to someone who can inform you of your options. Medical Assistance in Dying (MAID) is a federally approved procedure in which a patient is given medication to intentionally and safely end their life.
​
If you are considering MAID, you will need to speak with your doctor or nurse practitioner. If you are a clinician, patient, or caregiver looking for information on MAID, a care coordination service is available.
​
Hospice Muskoka abides by provincial regulations and logistics and adheres to the standards of care defined by HPCO.
Respite Care
​
Respite care is designed to give at-home caregivers an opportunity to rest and recover from the demands of providing daily care. It offers a break from the responsibilities of looking after your loved one so you can attend to everyday activities, visit when you choose, or just relax.
​
Andy’s House offers short-term stays for clients of up to 2 weeks, free of charge.
​
Respite clients receive the same care and support services as hospice residents—including a private room, meals, laundry, social activities, and medical attention.
Dispelling Myths
​
Here are some common misconceptions we hear when talking with clients and their families:
-
“Receiving hospice palliative care means you’ve given up hope.”
-
“Hospice care is only for seniors.”
-
“Hospice care is the same for everyone and is only available at the end of life.”
-
“Palliative care hastens death.”
-
“Pain is simply part of dying.”
-
“I’ve let my family member down because they didn’t die at home.”
​
The Truth
​
Hospice and palliative care can begin soon after a life-limiting or life-threatening diagnosis. The focus is on what matters most to you and your family, with support that can change as your needs and wishes change.
​
Palliative care goes beyond managing pain and symptoms. It can include help understanding treatment options, in-home support, caregiver respite, spiritual care, and grief and bereavement support. Together, we can create a plan that supports comfort, dignity and quality of life throughout your journey.
