There is a lot you should know about hospice care, including the risks, benefits, and options available. Hospice is not only for the terminally ill, and it can also help those who are living with chronic illnesses. For these people, hospice care can provide support and comfort. The goal of hospice care is to provide the best quality of life possible.
Hospice is covered by Medicare and many health insurance plans. You may be required to pay a copay for your doctor visits and prescriptions, but the costs are usually small. Hospice providers are honest and do not try to fool you about their prognosis. Often, they cannot predict the date of death, but they will let you know if it is imminent. This will allow you and your family to be with your loved one during their final days.
If you are unsure about whether or not hospice care is right for you or your loved one, consult with a hospice team to develop a plan for your loved one’s care. Depending on your needs, hospice care can be provided at home, in a nursing home, or even in a hospital. Your family should discuss the details of your wishes and feelings with the hospice team, and it’s important to pick caregivers who you can trust. The staff at hospice is able to provide emotional support for patients, as well as information on the process.
Hospice care is not the right option for everyone, and many families do not seek it until their loved one is in the final days of their lives. For many people, a death in hospice means a loss of independence, but hospice care helps relieve anxiety, reduce pain, and honor your loved one’s wishes.