Good day
I am wondering how I will cope when I become very poorly and/or incapable of looking after myself.
I know how much I looked after my late husband in the last weeks of his life. Because of the rapid onset of his metastatic disease we had no help at home from visiting nurses there was no time to put anything in place. It was all down to me to care for him until the end and even then district nurses and emergency doctor were in disagreement as to who should visit. Nobody did until after he passed.
That was 18 years ago. I am hoping things have improved?
Does the NHS provide nursing at home for those of us that live alone or is it the case we have to be hospitalised?
please let me know what I can expect?
thank you x
Hi Rosiee
Have you been encouraged to write a RESPECT form? This captures what is important to you, how you want to be helped ideally, etc.
I initially thought care at home was my preference but having had a stint in a local hospice for symptom control, I've now updated my wishes to say hospice is 1st choice and hospital last.
I found talking to my District Nurses and Palliative Care team really helpful to learn about what services are in my area, how to get referred into them and also honest information about which areas have restrictions, resourcing/funding issues etc so I could progress with balanced expectations.
I also found joining up with a different day service hospice also really helpful to meet more people that were in similar situations to me so we share tips and tricks, as well as look out for each other.
So I hope that helps reassure you that living alone without paid carers is possible.
