Is Hospice Care Only for the Dying?

Hospice care is one of those topics many people don’t feel comfortable talking about.  The idea of something so close to death makes them avoid asking questions or understanding it further: but it’s vital that you get to know this service, especially if you have a loved one who may need it soon.

These are the top things to know about hospice care and whether or not it’s only for patients who are dying.

Are There Many Types of Hospice Care?

Hospice comes in four different levels that each offer different amounts of care, and different levels of involvement from the family.  These include routine home care, continuous home care, general inpatient care, and respite care.  Respite care is the only temporary care, which is in place to give family members and caretakers a break for a short time before they get back to caring for their loved one.

How Long Can You Be In Hospice Care?

The average patient is in hospice care for less than six months.  This is due to the nature of the care and what calls for it.  To be eligible for hospice, a doctor needs to certify that a patient may not live beyond six months.  Although this is a terrifying prospect to many families, it’s important to be realistic about the time left so you can make the best plans possible for the family and patient alike.

Has Anyone Left Hospice Care Alive?

Yes!  Although doctors may give someone a warning that their illness will end their life within the next six months, there are always the rare cases that patients pull through and end up okay on the other side.

These cases are few and far between, so although it may feel nice to hope your loved ones’ case can be one of these miracles, it’s healthier, to be honest with yourself about the situation.

Is This Care Better Than Being Home?

Although hospice can be carried out at home, many are taken to hospice care facilities that will take over 24.7 care of them.  This is better for many situations depending on the person and their family or caretakers.

We all intend to care for our relatives and want to do everything we can to support them and make them feel at home, but the action of doing so is a large weight on your back.  Respite care can help to some degree, but the person who’s being cared for may suffer if their caretaker doesn’t seek out much-needed help.

Sometimes the best way to care for your loved one, and show you want them to be as comfortable as possible in their final months, is to put them in the hands of trusted medical professionals.  You can, and should, stop in often and visit with them, but this will let you breathe and give you space from the dread and heartache.

Hospice Care Can Make Patients More Comfortable

Regardless of age or illness, hospice care can make life a lot easier for the patient and their family.  Although this is an end-of-life service, it’s one of the most important options out there.