About Gardens and Hospice
Hospice is end-of-life care designed to ease the passing of patients that have six months or less to live. Hospice is not only about palliative care but is also a philosophy of care that not only eases patient’s pain and symptoms but attends to their emotional and spiritual needs as well as those of their loved ones. The whole idea is to maximize the patient’s quality of life while at the same time tending to and preparing the patient for their impending death.
What is a Hospice Garden?
The philosophy behind hospice care lends itself well to the blending of gardens for hospice facilities. There’s not any particular hospice garden idea or design but, generally speaking, a hospice garden will be simple, focusing on nature rather than elaborate designs. Patients often want to get outside one more time or, if they are confined to a bed, be able to see into a sea of greens, textures, and colors to observe the birds, bees, and squirrels frolicking. They want to feel that they can still interact with the outside world. Relatives may wish to take a walk and, yet, still be near enough to feel connected to their loved one, so simple garden paths are often integral. Benches or secluded nooks make for quiet areas of contemplation or prayer. Staff also benefit from a place to contemplate and rejuvenate.
How to Design a Hospice Garden
A hospice garden may be the work of a landscape designer, the loving work of volunteers, or even loved ones at the facility. It can be profoundly personal for family members and patients, when they are able, to add elements to the design of the hospice garden. This may mean a loving tribute to a family member who has passed or words of comfort etched into a stone step. It may mean seashells gathered during happier times become part of the landscape or a favorite lily is planted. The basics of a landscape garden should rely on the plant life but incorporating hospice garden ideas such as bird feeders and baths, rock features, and fountains that can be viewed from windows should be included as well. Anything that will allow even the sickest patients to interact with nature will work well in a hospice garden. Moving water is especially soothing whether it is a babbling brook, water fountain, or a small bubbler. Provide both shaded and sun-filled areas. Patients are often chilled and sitting in the sun can brighten both body and soul. Special care should be paid to accommodate patients in a hospice setting. All stones and fountains should have rounded edges, and paths should be wide enough to accommodate wheelchairs. Slopes should be gentle as well. As to the garden flora, fragrant plants should be incorporated but steer away from those that are thorny or prickly. Include familiar flowers such as lilacs, roses, and lilies that will titillate the senses and invite butterflies into the garden. The end goal of a hospice garden is to make it homey while offering comfort and making the garden available to everyone. Hospice care is often the next best thing to passing in one’s own home and, as such, the goal is to make it as relaxing and comforting as possible.
