Frequently Asked Questions
Transitions has been providing support to clients who do not qualify or are not ready for hospice care since 2001. Our clients may continue to seek curative treatment while receiving guidance and assistance during their advancing illness.
Our support does not interfere with treatments or procedures that clients choose. Our involvement is on your terms and helps during challenging times.
Transitions is designed to complement existing healthcare services by providing support in personal homes or wherever a client calls home, such as a nursing home or an assisted living facility. Community health care providers value the positive impact Transitions services bring, such as our close collaboration with a person’s entire health care team.
With the implementation of Transitions, clients are ensured dignity and reassurance during a time when life may feel chaotic or out of control. Our services will help identify client and family needs and offer assistance to fulfill those needs with referrals and links to community resources.
Questions:
What is Transitions?
Transitions is a professionally managed, volunteer-based support system provided in the comfort of your home, assisted living facility, or wherever you call home; designed to assist those challenged by an advancing illness with a prognosis of one year or less. Services are available to Marion County Residents at no charge thanks to funding through Hospice of Marion County and through the generosity of donors.
Who does Transitions serve?
Transitions is available for individuals who choose to pursue curative treatment or palliative care, and for those who don’t want or don’t qualify for hospice care.
What does it cost?
There is no charge for services provided by Transitions. The program is funded by donations.
What are your hours of service?
We are available 24/7 to take phone calls.
Why do we use volunteers?
Transitions recognizes that volunteerism is the cornerstone of its services to clients and families. A core group of volunteers is specially trained to assist in the most effective and skillful manner possible.
Transitions provides support assistance. The manager lends help by providing: a listening ear, information about area services, help understanding confusing events, options and choices, periodic visits, phone check-in calls, and a connection with a trained volunteer.
The Transitions volunteer may provide: companionship, emotional support, help doing errands, and respite for caregivers.
Why might I contact Transitions?
It can be confusing to know where to turn for help when coping with a serious illness and all the changes it brings. It is not unusual to feel hopeful one minute and discouraged the next. We realize that asking for help may be difficult for many people, so it may take some courage to do so. We often hear comments like these:
“When my husband’s health began to decline and he was no longer able to care for himself, my doctor told me about Transitions. After speaking with one of the caseworkers, I knew instantly that I had made the right decision to call and I felt a tremendous amount of relief. I couldn’t have imagined going through this alone. Your kindness, phone calls and support was truly a gift for me and my husband at a time when I needed help the most. Thank you so very much.”
“Since I have been on this new medication, the days seem so long. I am feeling lonely, but I don’t want to bother my daughter at work. I would very much like to talk with someone else.”
“My mother needs care 24 hours a day. It would be so helpful to have someone sit with her for a few hours so I could take a break. Then I can take better care of her.”
No one needs to feel alone. We’re here to help. Just call.
Other Resources from Hospice of Marion County
How would I know when to involve Transitions?
A helpful self-assessment tool is available for you to take online. Just click the button to begin the confidential Self-Assessment Quiz.