
Health topics
Hospice
Hometown Health Blog

Is a do-not-resuscitate tattoo a valid advance directive?
Tattoos are a common method of expression or marking significant events. But can you use a tattoo to communicate healthcare wishes? Learn why picking up a pen, not a tattoo needle, is the better option.

Hospice team ensures veteran makes Freedom Honor Flight
Two years ago, Dick Cagle applied for a Freedom Honor Flight to D.C. that honors veterans. He wasn't on the list yet, but the Navy vet's hospice team made sure this was one flight he wouldn't miss.

Now is the right time for advance directives
The best time to make an advance care plan is now. Starting a conversation about advance health care planning can be challenging, but it’s important. Here's what you need to know to get started.

Don't leave your health decisions to chance
It’s easy to put off making important decisions in life, especially documenting your health care wishes. But doing so can bring peace of mind and lead to better future health outcomes.

Hospice care makes difference for family affected by lifelong illness
The care provided through hospice made a difference for Ashley Evenson and her family during Ashley’s lifelong illness. Ashley’s mom shares why an early referral to hospice can help everyone involved.

Hospice patient shared special ties with Mayo Clinic Health System
Aside from being a nurse, veteran and hospice patient, Rosemary Zemlo had a special connection to hospice services at Mayo Clinic Health System.

Palliative, hospice care ease transition for terminally ill man
Jim Moessner was diagnosed with multiple sclerosis. He managed it well, and lived a normal life for decades. But then everything changed.

Joan’s song: Music therapy brightens hospice patient’s days
Angela Joan Adkins has unspecified dementia. Her music therapist took a unique approach to bring back special memories by playing a song written by Joan's son, Guy, who passed away after a battle with cancer.

Hospice patient attends Green Bay Packers football game
Lon Putzer's hospice care team learned about his love for the Green Bay Packers and facilitated a trip to see the team play.

Art to heal the human heart
Time can be hard to measure. We often measure our lives in the tasks and accomplishments of everyday life — a pace of business, providing us with momentum and a feeling of control. In between the noise of the day, quiet moments remind us of those we love and what we have lost.

You are not alone: End-of-life care and beyond
It might take more than a catchphrase for you to plan. It's important to know all the options when end-of-life comfort for a loved one or yourself e comfort depends on it.

Music, memories and 'singing grandma home'
Nicole Thiess was skeptical about music therapy for her grandmother, Barbara, who was in hospice care. She soon realized how beneficial this service was for Barbara's tranquil transition to the end of life.