Personalized care that puts quality of life first

With neatly polished nails, auburn hair and an embroidered blouse that reflects her spirit, 100-year-old Tita Mirabal shares that a typical day is taking it easy and talking to people. She also likes a good nap and an occasional word search puzzle.

A proud mom of seven, Tita has a complex medical history that includes several chronic conditions — aortic stenosis, atrial fibrillation, congestive heart failure, chronic respiratory failure and rheumatoid arthritis, to name a few — and was one of the first patients to join the Optum Palliative Care program in Albuquerque at age 97.

Life before palliative care was not easy for Tita. It involved frequent visits to the emergency room and at least three major hospitalizations. But since her enrollment, Tita has shown remarkable resilience and stability and has managed to stay out of the hospital.

Personalized, team-based support

Palliative care involves a team of doctors, nurses, social workers and other specialists — all of whom play an important role in Tita's well-being. Tita is carefully monitored and follows a comprehensive management plan and medication routine; by focusing on her quality of life and proactively managing her complex medical needs, the care team has greatly decreased the need for emergency medical interventions.

“Instead of jumping to the ER, our care team tries different approaches to manage the care at home, and it’s worked to prevent issues from escalating into much bigger issues,” explains nurse practitioner Lea Rotenberg-Koshkin, a trusted presence in Tita’s life.

“I love Lea,” Tita says warmly. “She is always here when I need her.”

“Tita is an extraordinary individual whose inner and outer beauty inspires us all,” said Randi Franco, BSN, RN, a member of the care team. “Through her graceful aging and uplifting sense of humor, she reminds us daily of the deeper meaning behind our work. As a cornerstone of our palliative care department, her presence is both grounding and motivating.”

The power of palliative care

Tita’s story is a powerful example of how personalized palliative care can enhance the quality of life for patients with serious illnesses.

“Celebrating her 100th birthday is not only a testament to her extraordinary life but also reflects the compassion and dedication that define our team,” says Randi.

Unlike hospice care, palliative care can be provided at any stage of an illness and can even occur alongside curative treatments. It emphasizes continuous monitoring, tailored support and compassionate care that prioritizes quality of life. Proactive, home-based interventions help keep patients comfortable and out of the hospital.

In Tita’s case, this approach has allowed her to thrive.