H ospice program provides peace, comfort at the end of life


who are in the final stages of life by providing quality healthcare services in a loving environment. Hospice is a special kind of care that


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addresses symptoms of disease, with an emphasis on helping control a patient’s pain and discomfort. It also focuses on the emotional, social and spiritual needs of the patient and the patient’s family. Hospice care can be implemented in a variety of settings, including a skilled care center like Good Samaritan Society – Osceola. With hospice, the client and his or


her family members are at the center of care. Services are provided by a team that includes physicians, nurses, certified nursing assistants, chaplains, dietitians, social workers, bereavement counselors and volunteers.


ospice care at Good Samaritan Society – Osceola supports people


The goal of hospice at Good Samaritan


Society – Osceola is to help patients live their final days in dignity while surrounded by family and other loved ones, says Pam Neujahr from the center. “Whether it’s supporting, guiding,


managing the disease process or simply holding a person’s hand in prayer, the center’s hospice team strives to ensure compassionate and professional care is provided,” she says. The Medicare Hospice Benefit covers


medication, supplies, equipment and other services related to a terminal diagnosis. Medicaid and most insurance plans also cover hospice services, although family members should check coverage with their health insurance provider or employer. For more information about hospice


services, please call Pam Neujahr at (402) 747-2691. ✞


C enter’s restorative program is more than therapy


for the whole person — body, mind and soul — while improving the quality of life and well-being of each resident. The restorative program at Good Samaritan Society – Osceola takes this philosophy to heart as staff members help residents maintain strength, restore loss of function and prevent further disability. Nearly all residents at the center use


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services from the restorative program. Three certified restorative nursing assistants work with residents on exer- cises that help maintain and increase their balance, strength and range of motion. Cognitive, speech, physical and occupational therapy services also are available. The Good Samaritan Society –


The Compassion Life Times


he Good Samaritan Society oper- ates under a philosophy of caring


Osceola restorative nurse works with other staff members and area physi- cians to help maximize each resident’s potential by attending to their personal abilities and limitations. To help residents of all abilities, the


center has a variety of rehabilitation and therapy equipment, including a NuStep recumbent cross trainer, Thera- Bands, an ultrasound machine and a Stand Aid mechanical lift. Some residents start the morning


with workouts in the therapy room with restorative aides leading their exercise programs. Others receive assis- tance with dressing, dining and daily tasks, while some residents meet with staff members on an as-needed basis. For more information about restor-


ative services, please call Adene Maronde at (402) 747-2691. ✞


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Keeping your emotions healthy


Seasonal affective disorder, also known as SAD or winter depression, is common during the next several months. When the sun sets earlier and more people are homebound, emotions can be affected. Common signs of seasonal depression are fatigue, mood changes, loss of energy, feelings of unhappiness, loss of appetite and difficulty concentrating. The following are helpful


suggestions to enhance emotional health during the winter months. Get regular exposure to


bright light. This is especially important in the morning, just after waking. Without access to sunlight, a fluorescent light can help. Go outside. This will make


you feel better even when the sky is cloudy; a small amount of natural light is better than none at all. Watch what you eat. Refined


carbohydrates can drop your body’s energy, but protein-rich foods give you a boost. Don’t forget vegetables, fruits and whole grains. Take vitamin supplements,


especially vitamin D. Sunlight is the body’s main source of vitamin D. Exercise. Working out can


release feel-good chemicals, boost self-esteem and get you outdoors. Keep your sleep routine.


Establish a regular sleep pattern and don’t stray from it. Try something new. A hobby


is fun and something to look forward to. Set limits. An overextended


schedule can increase your symptoms. Take regular breaks and look for things to cut from your week. ✞


December 2010 January 2008


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