When we're in good health, we control many of the things which affect our quality of life - where we live, where we work, who we consider our friends, what social activities we do, what hobbies and sports interest us and how, when and where we spend our money. We each define what our own quality of life looks like.
Health challenges diminish our ability to control many of those important factors. Health care appointments, changes in physical appearance and well-being, reduced income and increased expenses and social limits may impact our lives reducing our ability to enjoy normal life activities.
As active partners in our healthcare we can recover control by considering the following quality of life issues:
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What changes have occurred in my daily activities?
How am I getting along with family and friends?
Have I been feeling worried or sad?
Fact Box
When a 10-year-old was asked ''What is living?'' He replied ''Feeling good enough to do what I want, when I want.'' Hospice Chautauqua County is committed to helping people enjoy a great quality of life for as long as possible. To assist that vision, The Post-Journal will include a monthly healthcare column and invites your questions and comments to be sent to Hospice, 20 Fairmount Ave, Lakewood, NY 14750 or mdangelo@hospicechautco.org.
Have I been feeling sick or bedridden?
Which symptoms bother me the most?
Discuss these topics with family, friends, trusted advisors and the medical doctor. Working together we'll find the right balance between treatments and their benefit, long- and short-term, and doing the things we love and that bring true meaning to life.
Hospice Chautauqua County is dedicated to caring for patients and families facing terminal illness. Hospice offers a range of services through a team concept to meet the physical as well as the emotional needs of both the patient and the family. If you are interested in finding out more information on Hospice Chautauqua County, please visit our website at www.hospicechautco.org or call 338-0033.