What distinguishes the VNA from other local home health agencies is our unique ability to deliver a continuum of care. One of our former patients, Joan Ward, illustrates this beautifully.
Joan’s journey with the VNA began in October 2022 when she had a stroke and ended up in the emergency room. Upon discharge from the hospital, her doctor prescribed home health care to help address some mobility issues due to the stroke; she chose the VNA.
At the time, Joan’s home wasn’t wheelchair-accessible, so she moved into a new home in Vero Beach where family members began taking turns staying with her, including her two daughters, Lynn Green and Dionne Glass, and her granddaughter, Hannah Glass. “It’s been a real team effort. Family members come to visit regularly. It’s been a real family commitment, and we’re fortunate to have such a loving, supportive family.”
Joan’s recovery focused on occupational and physical therapy, where she regained some movement, including her right arm, which doctors initially thought would never work again. But by spring 2023, her strength began to fade, and at the advice of one of their nurses, the family made the decision to switch Joan, who was 91 at the time, to hospice care with the VNA, a “seamless transition,” according to her granddaughter, Hannah Glass, who has been an unwavering presence by her side.
To date, Joan has been on hospice for nearly two years. “I think she’s one of the longest patients,” says Hannah. The VNA team provides a comprehensive level of care, with nurses visiting twice a week to check Joan’s blood pressure, update her medications, and offer emotional support. On alternate days, home health aides visit to assist with personal care.
“The nurses come on Tuesdays and Fridays,” Hannah explains. “They check her vitals, refill any supplies, and just talk with us. They’ve become like friends — they’re so friendly and helpful. And then on Mondays, Wednesdays, and Fridays, we have our home health aides who help with bathing. They’ve been amazing.”
One key figure in this journey has been Jessica, a home health aide who has been with the family since the beginning of Joan’s care. “She’s been with us for a while,” says Hannah. “She’s amazing. She helped Joan transition from showers to bed baths, and her support has been a real comfort.”
In addition to the nursing and home care, Joan’s hospice experience also includes something truly special: music therapy. “On Fridays we have the music therapist. She’s fantastic,” Hannah says. “She really goes above and beyond to make sure Joan gets something meaningful out of each session.”
The music therapy sessions have been a highlight for Joan. “It’s been a wonderful experience,” Hannah says. “They even organized a little dance to ‘Dancing Queen,’ Joan’s favorite song. It was such a sweet moment—Joan loved it.”
For Joan, music therapy isn’t just about listening to music. It’s a way to connect, reminisce, and enjoy life in a different way. It’s also something that the entire family looks forward to.
Another important part of the family’s experience with hospice care has been the Respite Care program. This allows caregivers like Hannah, her mother, Dionne, and her aunt, Lynn, to take much-needed breaks while knowing that their loved one is in good hands. “I was hesitant at first,” says Lynn. “Sending Joan to the VNA Hospice House for respite care felt a little selfish, like I was sending her away. But Christina, our social worker, was really encouraging. She helped us understand that we deserve a break and that it’s okay to take time for ourselves.”
The family says the program has been invaluable. “We couldn’t have managed without it,” Hannah admits. “It would have been much harder without the support from hospice care.”
Joan’s journey is one of resilience, love, and unwavering support. The hospice care team has become an extension of the family, offering not just medical care, but emotional comfort and peace of mind. For families facing similar challenges, Hannah has a simple message: take advantage of hospice care. “I tell everyone I know that if you’re in this situation, you need to take advantage of it,” she says. “It’s been such a blessing for us. We’ve learned so much, and we couldn’t have done it without the VNA.”
This information is for educational purposes. Please consult your physician regarding any medical issues. The Visiting Nurse Association of the Treasure Coast (VNA) is committed to bringing trusted and quality home health, private care and hospice to Indian River County patients. For more information about VNA services, call 772-567-5551 or visit www.vnatc.com.
