Among many questions when caring for your elderly loved one, “When is it time to consider hospice care?” has probably crossed your mind. This can be a difficult time for you and your family, and it’s important to know the right information for you to make the decision that’s best for your loved one.
Many caregivers believe that patients or their families should consider hospice care as soon as possible. This is because hospice care, while looked at by many as just an end-of-life solution, is also a resource for holistic care. Let’s dive in a little further.
What is Hospice Care?
To start, hospice is an end-of-life type of care that allows patients who are terminally ill to receive holistic treatment that will enhance their quality of life. Hospice consists of care on a physical, emotional, and spiritual level, helping patients to manage their symptoms and find ease in the last few months of life.
Hospice care is managed by a team of medical professionals who devise a plan, along with the patient’s family, to ensure the patient is receiving the highest quality of care. Hospice can be at a special facility, or in the comfort of the patient’s own home.
Who is Eligible for Hospice Care?
Now, let’s look at the eligibility criteria for hospice care. While we’re focused on senior hospice care, a patient of any age who has a life expectancy of six months or less can receive this type of care. Additionally, patients must not be receiving other forms of healing treatment for their disease or condition.
However, hospice care still manages the patient’s symptoms and provides an enhanced quality of life. Additionally, if the patient should begin to improve, he or she can certainly be moved from hospice to receive the necessary curative treatment options.
When Should You Consider Hospice Care for Your Loved One?
Typically, it’s time to consider hospice care when a patient has 6 months or less to live. It is used when treatment can no longer stabilize or cure a disease, and allows the patient to experience quality of life during a seemingly difficult time.
Hospice care provides services such as occupational and physical therapy, along with medical equipment, such as wheelchairs or walkers. Dietary counseling may also be provided, as well as grief counseling for you and your family.
Because hospice can be set up in the home, it can be a much easier transition than you might think. And if there’s ever a time when your loved one is in need of short-term inpatient care, he is she can be transported to a hospice residential facility or a nursing home.
Learn More About Hospice Care
If you’d like to learn more information about hospice care, our team members at WellSprings Home Care would love to help. Whether you’re curious about when it’s time to consider hospice care, or would just like information on senior home care, we’ll be happy to answer any questions or concerns.
Contact us today at (610) 463-0880!
