Congestive Heart Failure (CHF) is a significant end-of-life condition that requires unique assistance and support. Through the Take Heart Program, Hospice of Holland provides patients and families with compassionate and expert care that addresses CHF symptoms. Hospice of Holland can also assist in managing symptoms such as sleeplessness, anxiety and depression that commonly develop as a result of Congestive Heart Failure (CHF).

Congestion Heart Failure is a term used to describe a condition in which the heart is “failing” to meet the body’s need for fresh, oxygen-rich blood. As the muscles of the heart weaken, blood tends to “back-up” either into the vessels of the lungs, or the vessels returning blood from the rest of the body. This causes congestion in the lungs, or swelling in the abdomen, or legs.

If you answer yes to more than one of the following questions, now may be the appropriate time for you to discuss with your physician a referral to Hospice of Holland.

Our team will coordinate appropriate medication management and can also determine which medical equipment may be needed. Most cardiac and symptom management medications related to your diagnosis, as well as assistive equipment, are covered under the Hospice Medicare Benefit and they will be delivered to your home. Hospice nurses consult with physicians and pharmacists who specialize in the types of medicine needed to ensure your quality of life is optimum.

Our nurses work with a team to customize your care according to your needs. The hospice aid can help with personal care when needed; our social workers and chaplains meet with you to provide supportive emotional and spiritual care for both the patient and the family.

Hospice of Holland also has volunteers who are part of this caring team who come together to give you and your family and improved quality of living. We currently have over 72 volunteers, and many of them come to us because they have had a loved one receive our services. These devoted people respond to special requests and look to see where they can be of most assistance.

In hospice care, much of the disease management will be similar to what has been done before. We will work with your doctor(s) and communicate with him/her about how you are doing. We are likely to continue most or all of your heart medicines as these are helping your heart function and thus keeping you more comfortable, which is our goal. We may also add medicines to increase your comfort.