Why Hospice?
“Our family will forever be in gratitude for every service, every smiling face, and comforting voice. Thank you for treating my beloved husband with the utmost kindness, dignity, and respect. We could not have wished for better care.”
Begin the Conversation
It may be difficult, yet it is important to talk about your end-of-life wishes with your loved ones early on. By the time hospice is enlisted, the patient may not be in a state of mind to express what they want. Having these tough conversations early can make the transition to hospice as seamless as possible.
For example:
Does the patient want to receive care at home, in a nursing home, or at an inpatient facility?
How long would they want to continue chemotherapy or other aggressive treatments if they are not providing the desired results?
Have they completed a Health Care Directive naming a health care proxy to make decisions for them if they are no longer able?
The hospice care team includes a licensed Social Worker who will help the patient and family make sure these important decisions are made.
Enlisting Hospice Care does not mean ‘giving up’
Hospice provides expert, highly trained professionals to keep your loved one safe and comfortable. Many families wait to engage hospice care and regret they did not begin hospice services sooner. Enlisting hospice support early is beneficial for both the patient and their caregivers.