Hospice For most people, the term “hospice” equates to “death,” but that is not always the case. Hospice care is for people with a life-limiting illness who can no longer benefit from traditional medical care and are interested in care that keeps them as free from pain as possible. The focus is on comfort and quality of life rather than treatment. Each person must decide whether (and when) hospice is the right choice for them. Hospice is a Medicare benefit. To qualify, a doctor must certify that his/her patient has six months or fewer to live. Of course, no one will be kicked off of hospice at the end of that six-month period as long as they still qualify, and the patient can decide at any time to discontinue hospice services and seek aggressive/curative treatments. Hospice care depends on doctors, nurses and social workers to help people with fatal illnesses live the best life possible right now . The focus is on freedom from pain, maintaining mental awareness and enjoying time spent with family. While those who have not experienced hospice care may equate it with giving up on their loved one, many report that hospice provided critical “Please listen to your loved one and let them make their own decisions in what’s happening…it is so important for them. Know how important their last rights are and respect them no matter what.” — B.D. more doctors who would advocate hospice to families. I am so grateful beyond words for the care and comfort my dad received through hospice care. It made a huge difference to the whole family.” — Kelly “One of the most difficult phases was knowing and helping my parents accept the need to move to hospice. It is a very emotional transition to make…I wish there were more educational resources and
emotional, physical and logistical support when it was needed the most. Several studies have shown that hospice patients suffered less, were able to interact with others and were more physically capable for longer periods of time. Studies have also shown no significant difference in survival time with hospice and non-hospice patients, and in some situations the hospice patients actually lived longer than the non-hospice patients. In addition, it was found that family members of hospice patients were less likely to experience major depression in the following months after their loved one’s death. Studies have also indicated that those who had previous discussions about their end-of-life preferences were more likely to die in peace, feeling in control of their situation, while experiencing less suffering. The Hospice Foundation of America can provide you with more information on how hospice works, and can assist you in locating hospices in your area.
Visit www.hospicefoundation.org for more information.
“Hospice…some are better than others. They offer different services — both to the patient and to the family…What works best for the patient? It’s all about their wishes.” — Leni hospice can be when treatment is no longer an option. They not only care for the patient, but the entire family as well, with understanding, resources and compassion.” — Tina “When the time comes, do not be reluctant to have a reputable hospice program help with care. I was not aware how valuable
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