On the latest episode of Health Futures: Taking Stock in You, host Bob Roth welcomed Dr. Ned Stolzberg, Medical Director at Hospice of the Valley. Dr. Stolzberg shared how hospice is not a place but a philosophy of care that brings hope, comfort, and control to families who want to spend more meaningful time at home.
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When Hospice Means Hope
Many families hear “hospice” and think final days. Dr. Stolzberg reframed it as hope for less pain, better comfort, and time together at home. Most care happens where people live, supported by a 24/7 safety net so urgent needs can be handled without reflex trips to the ER.
“One of the misconceptions is that hospice is a place you go,” Stolzberg explained. “Technically, it’s not. It’s a philosophy of care…we want to give you the best life that you can have, as often at home as we can, and let you call the shots in how you want your life to be.”
What Families Actually Receive
Hospice wraps a team around the family. That can include nurses, nurse aides, social workers, chaplains, physicians or nurse practitioners, and trained volunteers. Medications related to comfort are delivered to the home, and durable medical equipment like hospital beds, oxygen, walkers, and commodes is provided so families can focus on being together.
Taking Control, Not Giving Up
Hospice does not automatically stop all treatment. Dr. Stolzberg explained the goal is to keep what helps the person feel better and step back from what no longer offers benefit. It is a practical, person-first approach that often means fewer hospitalizations and clearer plans.
A Physician’s Perspective as a Son
Dr. Stolzberg shared the relief he felt when both of his parents enrolled in hospice. It allowed him to be their son rather than their doctor, knowing a responsive team was coordinating care, answering questions, and keeping them comfortable at home.
“It was such a relief when my folks enrolled,” he recalled. “I got just to be their son, and not their doctor. I knew everything was going to be handled, and there were folks who could answer their questions. That peace of mind was invaluable, for me and for my siblings who lived out of state.”
Dementia Care and Community Education
With more families facing Alzheimer’s and other dementias, Hospice of the Valley’s Dementia Care and Education Campus offers caregiver classes, an adult day program paired with a child day care for intergenerational activities, a small assisted living setting, and an inpatient unit for intensive needs. The organization also trains medical students, residents, and fellows so future clinicians are better prepared to support families at the end of life.
Light Up Your Life
Each year before Thanksgiving, Hospice of the Valley hosts Light Up Your Life, a community remembrance that offers families a way to honor loved ones together. Visit hov.org to learn more.
A Shared Commitment
At Cypress HomeCare Solutions, we know families navigating serious illness can feel overwhelmed. Stories like Dr. Stolzberg’s remind us that the right support, education, and coordination help people remain safe and comfortable at home.
đź“Ś Learn More
Explore caregiver resources: hov.org
Discover how Cypress supports families: CypressHomeCare.com or call (602) 755-9584
🎧 Catch the full episode of Health Futures: Taking Stock in You at CypressHomeCare.com/media/radio-show
đź“ť This content is intended for educational purposes only and should not be considered medical advice. Please consult professionals regarding your individual needs.
