In keeping with Jewish customs, our palliative care service offers a warm, empathetic and reassuring environment that allows patients to maintain their dignity in an atmosphere of traditional values. Wolper’s palliative care staff are specially trained to provide counselling and support for both patients and their family members.
Our focus is primarily on pain relief, symptom control and enhancing quality of life. We also recognise the needs of family and friends, who are encouraged to take part in the care of their loved one.
Medical and palliative care patients have access to Wolper’s Sensory Room which was specifically developed and designed to provide a sanctuary away from the general hospital environment.
This is a unique space which provides a calming environment which can lead to reduced anxiety and fear, improved mood and other beneficial outcomes.
The Room is equipped with a massage chair which features a specialised Dreamwave setting that is not too strenuous for our palliative patients, a therapeutic spa bath which allows patients easy and safe entry and exit from the bath and a music sound system on which the patient can play any music that appeals.
Spirituality
Jewish law states that terminally ill people should remain active and productive members of society for as long as possible. Wolper provides patients with the opportunity to do this by celebrating all Jewish festivals and holidays, and providing places where patients can celebrate with family and friends while they are able.
Wolper welcomes everyone regardless of religion or creed. Rabbis from a number of different synagogues visit the Hospital regularly offering religious counsel, advice and assistance. Patients are able to request their own Rabbi or minister of any other religion visit them. Please speak to nursing staff about this.
Visitors
We encourage visits by family and friends as an important means of delivering reassurance and comfort. The presence of relatives and friends ensures that patients do not feel abandoned, and confirms the family’s love, devotion and commitment.
For our palliative care patients only, there is no limit on visiting hours and family members can stay overnight.
Pets dogs and assistance dogs are permitted to visit with prior permission from the nursing staff.
Bereavement Counselling
Wolper’s palliative care staff are specially trained to provide counselling and support during a family’s grieving process. Staff can also arrange assistance and support from professional bereavement counsellors for patients and their families if required.
