What Hospice Care Really Means: Comfort, Dignity, and Support When It Matters Most

Hospice care doesn’t have to be a lonely or even a sad experience. At our communities, we offer hospice care that feels meaningful, comfortable, and respectful, so residents are surrounded by loving family and a supportive care team as they make their unique journey.  

Our designated hospice care and end of life options are Olive Grove Hospice in Blaine, Minnesota and Relief Suites at Comforts of Home Advanced Assisted Living - The Willows in Hudson, Wisconsin. Just as we have for our assisted living and memory care communities, we’ve built these unique communities to provide the best possible care and service—in this case, for residents and families who are going through the most difficult time of their lives.   

Now, let’s explore what hospice care really means and how our hospice and end of life care centers can offer your loved one comfort, dignity, and support at the end of life.  

What is hospice care?  

Hospice care is a specialized type of end of life care that guides individuals through their final chapter. It often takes place in the weeks and days leading up to an individual’s passing and is usually considered for a person who has a terminal diagnosis and a life expectancy of six months or fewer and is no longer seeking treatments to cure their condition. 

Care tends to focus on enhancing the quality of life for patients with an emphasis on comfort and support for both the patient and their families, giving families more quality time together and relieving the stress of navigating the experience alone.  

Paying for hospice care  

When it comes to financing, hospice care can primarily be covered by private health insurance plans and Medicaid. Does Medicare cover hospice? Yes, Medicare Part A covers hospice care for people with a terminal illness, including the costs of palliative care, medical and nursing services, hospice drugs, and medical equipment.  

Is hospice care different from palliative and end of life care?  

Hospice care is unique in that it is a form of palliative care that provides relief from symptoms and stress of a serious illness to improve quality of life. The difference between hospice care vs. palliative care is that palliative care is often provided alongside curative treatments. Both fall under the umbrella of end of life care, a term that encompasses all care and support provided during the final phase of a terminal condition.   

Compassionate hospice care for your loved one 

At our hospice care centers, professional hospice care teams focus on helping individuals live each moment fully, while providing emotional, spiritual, and medical support that prioritizes quality of life, individualized care, and meaningful family time.  

Our hospice team is also fully integrated into our housing communities, allowing us to provide seamless care in a safe, peaceful home environment with 24/7 support. Our end of life and hospice care also prioritizes patient and family-directed care planning and collaborative and transparent communication, which makes for a truly person-centered approach. 

Services we offer  
At Olive Grove and Relief Suites, our hospice care services provide:  

• Help with personal care and activities of daily living (ADLs) like bathing, dressing, grooming,  

• Pain and symptom management for shortness of breath, anxiety, fatigue, and more.  

• A 13-month bereavement program for families that offers grief counseling, phone check-ins, and help finding local support groups.  

• Social workers to provide support in preparation for the end of life.   

• Spiritual care to help individuals find peace and meaning in their last days.   

• Ordering and delivery for all residents’ medication and medical supply needs.  

Olive Grove also specializes in end of life care for veterans, including care for service-related conditions, incorporating military history into care plans, and help coordinating burial benefits, chaplain services, and social worker support. To this end, Olive Grove partners with We Honor Veterans, a program of National Hospice and Palliative Care Organization and the VA) to provide the best possible veteran care.  

At Relief Suites, our teams focus on offering specialized medical services that include medication setup and administration, diabetic management, meal preparation and assistance with feeding, catheter care, and bathing assistance. Other services include two person transfers including mechanical lifts, incontinence management, routine safety checks, and Coumadin management.  
  

Navigating next steps  
If you’re beginning to explore hospice care for your parent or loved one, our team is here to answer your questions, listen to your concerns, and help you find the right support for your family. To learn more about our end of life care options as well as our assisted living and memory care communities in Minnesota and Wisconsin or schedule an in-person visit. We look forward to welcoming you to our community. 

How to Know if Your Loved One Qualifies for the VA Aid and Attendance Benefit

It might sound surprising, but many veterans are unaware of the range of benefits they are entitled to by the U.S. Department of Veterans Affairs once they return to civilian life. And for aging veterans, one of the most useful of these is the VA Aid and Attendance benefit, which can help pay the cost of assisted living and memory care for eligible veterans and their surviving spouses.  

At our communities, our move-in advisors are experienced at helping families and their loved ones navigate the VA benefits system, which is fairly complex and can be confusing. Read on to learn more about how VA benefits work and how our team can help your loved one determine their eligibility, apply for, and access the benefits they’ve earned. 

What is the VA Aid and Attendance Benefit? 
The VA Aid and Attendance Benefit was created to help wartime veterans and their surviving spouses pay monthly expenses related to long-term care, including assistance with daily activities. Among other care expenses, it can be used to pay the cost of memory care or the cost of assisted living.  

Beyond Aid & Attendance, housebound benefits are another option veterans should consider. Housebound benefits are open to veterans who receive a VA Pension and spend most of their time at home due to permanent disability. However, veterans cannot receive both types of benefits at the same time.  

Who is eligible? 
Veterans aged 65 and older who served during wartime and meet at least one of these conditions may be eligible for the Aid & Attendance Benefit, which can cover care for themselves or for their surviving spouse. Veterans or surviving spouses are eligible if: 

• They need another person to help them perform daily activities, like bathing, feeding, and dressing, or 

• They need to stay in bed for much of the day because of illness, or 

• Thet are a patient in a nursing home due to diminished mental or physical abilities related to a disability, or 

• Their eyesight is limited (according to the VA website, this means that “even with glasses or contact lenses they have only 5/200 or less in both eyes; or concentric contraction of the visual field to five degrees or less”) 

It’s important to note that there are specific income and assets limits to qualify for the VA Aid & Attendance Benefit. Eligibility is based on a maximum amount of annual income a veteran or surviving spouse can have, including earnings, pensions, and Social Security, and minus unreimbursed medical expenses (UMEs); this amount is also known as the maximum annual pension rate (MAPR).  The VA website has more about the MAPR as well as the VA’s pension-based calculations. 

How can my loved one or I apply for VA benefits? 
To apply for VA benefits, your first step is to complete VA Form 21-2680 and submit it to your local VA office or pension management center.  Be sure to include the following information with the form: 

• Any evidence, like a doctor’s report, that shows you need these benefits 

• Details about what you normally do during the day  

• Details that help show what kind of illness, injury, or mental or physical disability affects your ability to do complete daily activities, like taking a bath, on your own 

How our Comforts team can help 

Are you a veteran or veteran’s spouse exploring your senior living options and still wondering how to pay for assisted living or pay the cost of memory care? Don’t hesitate to reach out to our team.  We would be happy to assist you and your family as you navigate the VA system, from making that first call to accessing ongoing benefits. 

To learn more about Comforts of Home, White Pine, or Gracewood Senior Living assisted living and memory care communities in Minnesota and Wisconsin. We can’t wait to welcome you to our community.  

Top 10 Questions Families Ask About Men's Memory Care

There’s a lot that makes our network of communities unique. But we are especially proud that several of our communities offer men’s memory care. Our carefully designed program was created to support the unique needs and preferences of male residents while providing a comfortable, supportive atmosphere where all residents feel respected, protected, and valued.  

If you’re exploring memory care for your dad, husband, or another male loved one, here are 10 questions to ask about our men’s memory care program, along with answers for what to expect. 

1. How is men’s memory care different from non-gendered memory care? 

In our experience, men in memory care respond best to routines, activities, or therapies that feel familiar and purposeful, especially those that require skills they used routinely in their earlier lives and careers. That's why we offer programming such as hands-on crafting projects, outdoor activities and games, and small-group conversations on familiar topics. 

2. What dementia therapies do you use in your community? 

Our men’s memory care team uses evidence-based approaches like structured routines, sensory engagement, and calm spaces to support your loved one’s well-being and encourage communication. If required, we can also provide advanced services to help your loved one through the end of life. 

We integrate our L.I.F.E. (Loving, Individualized, Fulfilling, Empowering) program into men’s memory care, offering therapies such as music, pet visits, life skills activities, and aromatherapy to promote comfort and connection 

3. How do you handle challenging dementia-related behaviors? 

We ensure that your dad or loved one is supported in a way that preserves their dignity, using evidence-based dementia therapies like redirection and communication techniques designed to manage behavior. We are also a thoughtfully designed, secure environment, which helps tendencies to move about or explore. 

4. How do I know my dad will be safe? 

Your husband’s or dad’s safety is our top priority—but we believe safety should never come at the expense of comfort or dignity. That’s why our men’s memory care communities are thoughtfully designed to provide security in a way that still feels warm, familiar, and home-like. 

From secured entrances and discreet monitoring to purposefully arranged common areas, every detail helps prevent risks while encouraging independence. Hallways are well-lit and easy to navigate, and furniture is arranged to reduce fall hazards. We also maintain a low care team-to-resident ratio so someone is always nearby to offer support when needed. 

5. How do you involve families in care planning? 

We encourage families to participate in creating a care plan for their loved one and to visit whenever they would like. We also pride ourselves on maintaining open, transparent communication with residents’ families to keep them updated on their loved one’s care. 

6. How do you discourage social isolation? 

Meaningful social connection is key to our approach to men’s dementia care. We have found our residents tend to thrive in purpose-driven programs, whether it’s working in the garden, doing a puzzle, or building a birdhouse, so we try to make those social activities as well. 

7. What medical care is available and how do you handle medical emergencies? 

Our care team are available 24/7 to provide medical support. We also coordinate with outside medical providers for medications, therapy, and wellness checks to ensure your husband’s or dad’s physical and emotional health. 

8. Are your team members trained in dementia care? 

Our teams are trained in dementia care and are familiar with a range of dementia therapies. They also take the time to get to know your dad’s story, his preferences, and needs to help build a sense of trust and tailor care specifically to him. 

9. How do you ensure residents maintain dignity and independence? 

In our experience, male memory care residents tend to enjoy hands-on tasks and routines that bring a sense of purpose, so we try to include those elements in each day as well. It’s also important to us that every interaction we have with your loved one recognizes him as the wonderful person he still is. 

10. How do I know if it’s time for my dad to go into memory care? 

If your loved one is becoming more confused, needs help with daily tasks, or if you feel he isn’t safe living alone, memory care may be the best next step. We focus on making sure our residents enjoy a better quality of life, not just on managing symptoms.  

Exploring your dad’s next steps 

Our programming at Comforts men’s memory care communities is carefully designed to offer personalized dementia therapies, an experienced team trained in dementia care, purpose-driven programming and activities, and, most of all, an approach to memory care that honors each residents’ unique value.  

Our Minnesota communities in Mendota Heights, Blaine, and Inner Grove Heights and our Wisconsin communities in River Falls and St. Croix Falls all offer men’s memory care. To learn more about all our assisted living, memory care, and men’s memory care communities in Minnesota and Wisconsin, don’t hesitate to reach out to our team. We look forward to welcoming you to our community! 

Understanding the Importance of Socialization for Seniors

Staying socially connected in our senior years is just as important as it is at any other stage of life. And for older adults, simple socializing and chatting with friends isn't just an enjoyable activity: it’s also instrumental to seniors’ emotional well-being, mental acuity, and physical health.  

At our assisted living and memory care communities, we understand the importance of socialization for seniors, including how deeply a strong sense of belonging and community can impact quality of life. Let’s take a closer look at why supportive social environments and meaningful relationships matter as we age.  

The risks of loneliness in seniors 

Without regular opportunities for social connection, seniors’ emotional well-being, cognition, and physical wellness all may suffer. NIH research has shown that social isolation and loneliness in seniors can lead to: 

• Higher risks of depression and anxiety 

• Increased cognitive decline 

• Greater risk of heart disease and stroke 

• Loss of motivation or daily routine 
   

That’s why senior living communities provide a venue for consistent, meaningful social interaction, helping to protect against these risks and supporting seniors in staying active, engaged, and connected to the world around them. 

Why socialization helps seniors 

Just like proper nutrition and regular exercise, socialization plays a major role when it comes to seniors’ health. We create daily opportunities for you or your loved one to experience social connection, which can support: 

• Increased cognitive function: Staying socially engaged can help seniors maintain and even improve cognitive function, particularly through stimulating activities, games, and lively conversation. 

• Emotional support: A strong social network provides older adults with a support system that can offer encouragement, empathy, and advice. 

• Greater self-esteem: Social interactions can boost an older adult’s self-esteem by providing opportunities for positive feedback and recognition. 

• More of a sense of purpose: Regular socialization can help seniors maintain a sense of purpose and meaning, since spending time with others and contributing to community life can engender feelings of accomplishment and satisfaction. 

 
Creating a sense of belonging 

Healthy socialization doesn’t have to mean loud parties or packed calendars. For many seniors, it’s about meaningful, everyday connections. At our communities, we offer a warm, welcoming environment where connections happen naturally. 

Residents here enjoy ample opportunities to participate in clubs or groups with others who share their interests, whether it's a book club, fitness class, or hobby group. Mealtimes and social gatherings also provide informal opportunities to connect with neighbors, while art workshops, cooking demos, and dance classes provide the chance to interact with others while learning something new.  
 
Our communities also feature friendly, approachable team members who take the time to get to know each resident by name, offering personalized support for every personality, whether you or your loved one are more outgoing or on the introverted side. 
 

Let’s connect 

If you or your loved one are experiencing loneliness, depression, or social isolation, assisted living and memory care communities offer a warm, vibrant environment where you feel seen, heard, and cared for. Let’s talk about how we can help you or your loved one feel more connected! 

What To Do When Your Elderly Parent Can't Live Alone Anymore

As your elderly parents age, you naturally want to be there for them—just like they’ve always been there for you.  

That's why it can be especially stressful when you start to notice age-related changes like frequent falls, missed medications, confusion and memory loss, or difficulty with everyday household tasks. But before taking action to help, it’s important to first understand what kind of care and support your parents really need. 

At our senior living communities, we’ve walked hundreds of families through this same situation. Here, we’ll walk you through how to assess your parents’ needs and ensure they stay safe and supported, whether that’s with at-home support or a move to a senior living community. 

6 Signs your elderly parent shouldn’t live alone 

Everyday tasks can become challenging and even dangerous as we age. If your parent is showing signs like these, it may be time to explore additional support: 

• Missed medications or taking incorrect doses 

• Frequent falls or close calls, especially in the bathroom or kitchen 

• Unopened mail, unpaid bills, dirty dishes, and trash piling up 

• Changes in memory or mood such as forgetting appointments or becoming easily overwhelmed 

• Unintentional weight loss or signs of poor nutrition 

• Withdrawing from family and friends, or avoiding favorite activities 

Noticing these age-related changes means you’re paying attention, and that’s the first step toward developing a plan to help your elderly parents remain safe at home, or, if that’s not possible, find appropriate support and care elsewhere. 

How to start the conversation 

If you're concerned about your parents living alone, there are compassionate and practical ways you can begin the conversation and move forward: 

• Have a heart-to-heart conversation. Choose a quiet time to share what you’ve observed about their health and safety. Be sure to express your love and concern for them and let them know they’ll be included in any decisions about the future. 

• Get the full picture. A visit with your loved one’s primary care doctor can help evaluate your parents’ memory, mobility, and overall health, making it easier to determine what kind of support might be needed.  

• Understand your loved ones’ needs. Observing the areas where your parents are struggling, whether it’s mobility, memory, or medication management, can help you determine the right level of care. 

• Explore care options. If your parents need hands-on support, senior living communities like Comforts can provide supportive services like assisted living and memory care. Alternatively, at-home health care can offer a helping hand with many of the activities of daily living. 

• Use all available resources: Don’t hesitate to reach out to an elder care expert, social worker, or senior living advisor to guide you through this transition and navigate the next steps. 

Comforts: Here to help  

If you're beginning to see signs your parents shouldn’t live alone, a senior living community might be just the solution you’re looking for. Our warm, homelike communities offer compassionate care, a vibrant community setting, and a dependable team that puts your loved one first.  

Whether you’re just beginning to explore options or ready to visit a community in person, don’t hesitate to reach out. Our caring team is here to help, just as we’ve done for seniors living alone and their families for the past 22 years. 

To learn more about Comforts of Home, White Pine, or Gracewood Senior Living assisted living and memory care communities in Minnesota and Wisconsin. We can’t wait to welcome you to our community.