Is Hospice Right For Me?

We get it. If you or a loved one is considering hospice care, things are probably feeling a bit scary, out of control, and uncertain. We understand that you probably have a million and one questions right now. This article will hopefully calm some of your fears and give you some of the knowledge that you need to make the right decision.

Who Is Hospice For?

First of all, what is hospice and what is it for? Hospice is for people who have been diagnosed by their medical professional as having six months or fewer to live (assuming their disease follows the average course). 

But in addition to being for the patient, hospice is also for the caregiver. You no longer have to worry about taking your ill loved one to doctors’ appointments. You can ask questions of your nurse at any time. And you and your loved one will get the mental health and spiritual support you need thanks to the included support from a medical social worker, spiritual care coordinator, and end-of-life doula.

How Does Hospice Help?

Hospice care is focused on making the end of life as comfortable as possible. Sometimes this means focusing on treating pain as effectively as possible. Sometimes this means supporting someone as they process all the emotions associated with the end of life. And it definitely means you receive assistance with actually fully living during the remaining time you have left. 

What If I Live Longer Than 6 Months?

Awesome- this can definitely happen! Assuming your prognosis has not changed, you don’t get kicked off of services, and your insurance generally continues to pay at the same rate as before. You just need to get rectified by your medical provider, and your care continues as normal. 

What If I have Questions About Hospice?

If you have questions about anything hospice or home health care, please give us a call at 541-469-0405. We are happy to chat with you and answer whatever questions that may arise. You can, of course, also talk to your doctor or health care provider.