Why should I consider Hospice care for my loved one?

Hospice was described early on as “a place of refuge for travelers on a difficult road or pass”. Compassionate hospice caregivers can make a difficult journey less so.

In a large medical study in 2004 involving thousands of Americans, people were asked if they had the choice, where and how they would die, and what were their greatest fears about dying. Most people still prefer to die at home surrounded by their loved ones. Hospice care can help families grant their family member’s wish to stay at home in his familiar surroundings. Modern hospice care has changed the way medical practitioners can treat their patients with life-limiting illnesses.

Although all hospices must provide basic core services: nurse, social worker, chaplain, volunteer, nursing assistant, medications and supplies related to the terminal diagnosis, patients and their loved ones need to be aware that a hospice agency can determine services it offers.

It is wise to inquire about what specific care and assistance will be given to your loved one. Interview several hospice providers before you make your decision because the relationship you establish with your hospice team is key to the overall good result you are seeking to help your loved one to remain at home. End of life care that includes palliative measures for pain relief is what will enhance, comfort, and improve the enjoyment of a person’s life. A caring hospice relationship permeates the entire home and family with a kind and caring environment.

The focus needs to be upon empowering the person to make the most of their remaining time with their family by providing comfort and relief from pain and other symptoms. Talk to your loved one’s doctor first. Be sure he or she agrees that hospice is something he will prescribe. Then, don’t be anxious about calling to talk with a hospice or several, for that matter. You will learn a great deal about making your loved one’s life more manageable and less stressful for everyone.