Additional Helpful Resources
***NEW*** Spanish-Language Bereavement Resources for Colorado
Aging with Dignity - national not-for-profit organization that promotes human dignity as America ages, with emphasis on improved care for those near the end of life. Distributes Five Wishes, an easy to use advance directive that over 1 million American families have used to discuss how they want to be treated during times of serious illness.
Americans for Better Care of the Dying (ABCD) was founded in 1997 to reform end-of-life care and advocate for changes in professional practice and public policy to improve dying in America
Caring.com's mission is to help family caregivers by providing trusted information, access to eldercare experts, community support groups, and a directory of local caregiving services. In addition, Caring.com offers helpful information on end-of-life planning, resources, and tips for caring for someone in hospice care.
Caringinfo.org, a Web site designed for the general public offering in-depth resources for advance care planning, financial challenges, caregiving, coping with loss, and other end-of-life concerns.
Colorado Cancer Coalition, based at the Colorado Department of Public Health and Environment, comprises organizations and individuals dedicated to the control and prevention of cancer throughout the state. The site offers information on the coalition and its activities, including the Colorado Cancer Plan 2005-2010; information on helpful resources, publications, funding opportunities, and statewide activities focused on cancer prevention and treatment.
Domus Pacis Family Respite, a non-profit organization located in Summit County, Colorado that offers a week's escape to the mountains for families touched by cancer.
Hospice Foundation of America - promotes the hospice concept of care through education, including the annual national bereavement teleconference. Web site includes helpful resources on hospice and palliative care and caregiving.
Life Quality Institute offers clinical training and administrative assistance to developing palliative care programs, training and education for health care students, and community programs on caregiving and advance care planning.
National Hospice and Palliative Care Organization (NHPCO) represents hospice and palliative care professionals across the nation. This site offers a national database of hospice care providers, general information on end-of-life care and advance care planning, and links to partner organizations.
Publications
"Hospice and Palliative Care: Options for Care at the End of Life", 2008. By Jennifer Ballentine, MA, published in the Senior Law Handbook - 2008 Edition. This chapter addresses many common questions regarding hospice services and palliative care.
"Palliative Care - A New Approach to the Relief of Suffering", 2007. By Jennifer Ballentine, MA, published in the Senior Blue Book. This article addresses general information regarding palliative care.
"Hospice Care", 2006. By Jennifer Ballentine, MA, published in the Colorado Gerontological Society's Senior Resource Guide. This article addresses general information regarding hospice services.
"Planning for Your Discharge", A checklist for patients and families planning for discharge from the hospital, nursing home, or other health care setting. The checklist will help you plan for care needs, safety, and other supports required to care for a patient at home.
Other Web Links and Resources
- End of Life Insights - includes resources and information for professionals and the public on elder care, health care, and funeral services.
- GriefNet - system of resources related to death, dying, and bereavement.