Day Hospice Unit

Day Hospice provides ongoing respite care and activities for patients whose symptoms are controlled but who wish to avail of further medical, nursing and physiotherapy care. Physiotherapy is a crucial part of Hospice care, helping to improve mobility and strength, as well as controlling breathing difficulties and pain relief. The ongoing companionship and diverse therapies enable patients to live life to the full whilst providing a welcome break for their carers.
The Day Therapy Unit aims to provide support for patients with advanced illnesses such as Cancer, Multiple Sclerosis and Motor Neurone disease who are living at home, whilst providing respite for their full-time carers. General Practitioners, Hospice Doctors, District Nurses and Social Workers make referrals to the Day Hospice Unit.
The Day Therapy Unit is open Monday to Thursday from 10am - 3.30pm and is situated on the ground floor of Southern Area Hospice Services, adjacent to the newly landscaped gardens.

The Day Therapy Unit team
A dedicated team of staff and volunteers ensure that everyone gets the most out of their day.

The Day Therapy Care team is made up of:
• Sister in Charge
• Nursing Auxiliary
• Physiotherapist
• Reflexologist
• Social Worker
• Chaplaincy
• Voluntary Staff
• Activities Nurse

Aim of the Day Therapy Care team
The team aims to enhance the quality of life of patients by responding to physical, psychological, social and spiritual needs, thus enabling each person to live every day as fully as possible.
Activities include:
• Art therapy
• Reflexology
• Beauty therapy
• Aromatherapy
• Music and entertainment
• Craft work
• Manicures
• Group work with the Chaplaincy team
• Hairdressing (available by appointment)
• Red Cross therapeutic care
• Relaxation therapies

What happens?
On arrival at Day Therapy Unit, each patient will have a consultation with the Day Hospice Sister. If required, the patient's blood will be checked and any other necessary tests carried out. Medication changes, if applicable, will be suggested to the patient's GP. The outpatient will then be referred to appropriate members of the team. During the course of the day pre-lunch drinks will be offered and a light lunch is available.
A number of medical procedures, such as blood transfusions can be carried out whilst at the Day Therapy Unit. A Day Procedures Clinic is held on Monday mornings whereby patients can receive help and advice from the Hospice team whilst remaining under the medical care of their GP. After visiting the Day Therapy Unit the patient is given a letter for their GP.

For more information download PDF Leaflet “Your Hospice, Day Hospice”