Hospice

Hospice care is a vital service that offers support to individuals who are terminally ill and their families. The main objective of hospice care is to enhance the quality of life of the person in the final stages of life by providing medical, spiritual, and psychological assistance.

The hospice care team typically consists of:

1. The person receiving care and their family.

2. A nurse and a hospice doctor, and in some cases, the primary healthcare provider is also included.

3. A social worker or case manager.

4. A religious or spiritual leader.

5. Specialists such as a dietitian, mental health counselor, physical and occupational therapists, and a bereavement coordinator.

6. Trained volunteers who can assist with caregiving.

Hospice services can vary depending on the organization, but generally include:

1. Measures to keep the individual comfortable, which can be provided either in their home or a home-like setting.

2. Pain and symptom relief with appropriate medications and equipment to ensure alertness and enjoyment of time with loved ones.

3. Assistance from loved ones in providing basic care to allow for greater family support and connection.

4. Visits and care from nurses and doctors, often with 24-hour on-call services.

5. Support from specialists such as counselors, massage therapists, nutrition therapists, art or music therapists, and spiritual care providers to address emotional, spiritual, and social needs.

6. Companionship and support during times of solitude.

7. Light housekeeping, meal preparation, and errand running by hospice staff to allow the family time to rest.

8. Short-term inpatient care if necessary.

9. Bereavement support for family members grieving the loss of their loved one.

The appropriate time to begin hospice care is when the person is estimated to have six months or less to live. Healthcare providers and family members can collaborate to decide when hospice services should commence. If the person lives longer than six months but their condition does not improve, continued hospice care may be approved. Conversely, if their condition improves, they can discontinue the program.

When selecting a hospice program, consider factors such as the available services, associated costs and insurance coverage, state licensing or certification, pain and symptom management, emotional and spiritual support, visitation policies for loved ones, flexibility in service settings, and the training and screening of the hospice care team.

Hospice programs are often run by nonprofit, independent organizations and can take place in various settings, including the person’s home, hospice centers, hospitals, or skilled nursing facilities.

For more information about hospice programs, you can contact your health care providers or refer to organizations such as the National Hospice and Palliative Care Organization, National Association for Home Care & Hospice, Hospice Foundation of America, American Cancer Society, and eHospice. Local agencies on aging, United Way chapters, and state departments of health or social services can also provide valuable information.

Remember, this information does not replace advice given by your health care provider, so it’s essential to discuss any questions or concerns with them directly.