When your loved one faces a life-limiting illness, the path ahead can feel uncertain. Hospice care may be on your mind, but you might be unsure about the best approach or timing. The goal is to find support, comfort, and ease so you can make the most of your time together. Your loved one’s physician can be a key supporter during this time.
What is Hospice Care and When to Consider It?
Hospice provides specialized care for those with terminal illnesses, supplementing existing care with additional resources, comfort, and support. The focus is on enhancing quality of life by managing symptoms and addressing emotional, spiritual, and practical needs. If your loved one’s health is declining, they have received a timed prognosis, or they need increased assistance, it might be time to consider hospice care.
Your Doctor’s Role and How They Can Help
At any stage of a life-limiting illness, discuss treatment and care options, including hospice care, with your loved one’s physician. This reduces stress and empowers you, your family, and your loved one. Proactively planning with the doctor can make future choices easier. Ask about medical diagnoses, progression, symptom management, and quality of life expectations. Also, inquire about alternative treatment options and recommendations.
Initiating Hospice Care
The decision to start hospice care ultimately belongs to the patient, supported by their family. Your loved one’s physician can help decide when it’s time and identify providers in your area. Research and speak to multiple providers to find the best fit for your loved one and your family.
You can initiate conversations with hospice providers anytime. Once you decide to begin hospice care, your loved one’s physician will confirm its appropriateness and provide a referral order. A hospice care nurse will then assess which services will benefit your loved one and family, usually within hours or the same day, and care can typically begin the same day.
Clarify Values and Goals
Discussing values, goals, and needs with your loved one can be emotional but is essential for balancing comfort and care. Give yourselves grace and patience to process the journey. Once established, communicate these clearly with your doctor and healthcare team. This ensures that wishes are understood and carried out, providing greater peace of mind. Your team will always support you, ensuring you and your loved one never feel alone.
Early Engagement with Hospice
Don’t hesitate to start hospice care even if you think it’s early. Many families wish they had engaged with The Care Team sooner due to the positive, supportive environment we provide.
The Care Team is ready to support you, lightening your burden and allowing you to focus on moments of joy and peace, renewed relationships, and above all, care. We prioritize compassionate care during the final stages of life, ensuring comfort and dignity.
To discuss hospice care for yourself or a loved one, please contact us.
