Respite Matters. Everyone needs a break.

We are urging the Government of Ontario to provide much-needed funding for 5 Respite Beds at Hospice Muskoka. 

Respite: A short period of rest and relief from something that is difficult or unpleasant.

Top 10 Reasons for Palliative Respite Beds in Muskoka:

• Allows family to be the loved ones while we look after care needs. Hospice Muskoka provides expert care from a multidisciplinary team 24 hours a day, 7 days a week. 
  
  
• Respite helps to prevent Caregiver Burnout. Caregiving is physically, emotionally and mentally exhausting, which is compounded by lack of resources and support in the community.
  
  
• Hospice Palliative Care represents choice. We provide care that honours the wishes of the person experiencing a life-limiting diagnosis.
  
  
• Muskoka has a population that is older than the Ontario average. The need for Palliative Respite Care is prevalent in Muskoka, yet there are no Respite Beds available.
  
  
• Palliative Respite Beds cost ⅓ of the cost of a hospital bed. Hospice palliative care is 100% paid for by OHIP coverage.
  
  
• Hospice Muskoka is currently only 45% funded by the Government of Ontario for the costs of offering 3 beds for End-of-Life Care. The balance of our costs (55%) are covered by grants and through your generous donations.
  
  
• The Palliative Approach to care is a specialty area of medicine. The physical, mental, social and spiritual needs of the person are combined to provide a holistic approach.
  
  
• Culturally sensitive care, inclusive and equitable access to Palliative Respite for all people living in Muskoka.
  
  
• 100% of Muskoka’s healthcare organizations recognize the importance and support the request by Hospice Muskoka for funding 5 Palliative Respite Beds immediately.
  
  
• Dying impacts 100% of the population. At some point and in some way, we all must face the end of life. Hospice helps you palliate and die with dignity.