When Is Hospice Care Recommended?

It may be a difficult decision to make, but knowing the right time to put a loved one into hospice care is truly important—especially for those who have been suffering from a terminal illness. Understanding the signs and symptom levels that indicate the need for hospice care is vital to ensure that the patient will receive proper care and attention in their last days.

In 2021 alone, over one million patients were taken in hospice services for one day or more in the United States.

Being put into a hospice ensures that the end-of-life medical care a patient will receive is top-notch—one that will also give them emotional and spiritual support. 

Here, we'll examine when is hospice recommended, the eligibility requirements, and some common misconceptions about it. 

How Do You Know When Hospice Is Needed?

You'll know hospice is needed when a patient is currently going through:

• Frequent hospitalizations
• Severe pain and symptom management
• Decline in functional ability
• Significant weight loss

One thing to also consider in determining if a patient needs a hospice is their prognosis—most especially when it's only measured in months rather than years. Hospice is built to accommodate those whose curative treatments are no longer effective or when they choose to discontinue treatment for their terminal illness. 

At What Stage Can You Go to a Hospice?

The time when you can go to a hospice may vary, but early enrollment is often a good route to take so that patients and their families can fully benefit from the support and services provided by the hospice team. A patient's eligibility is usually determined based on a prognosis of six months or less if the disease follows its usual course.

However, this timeline is not set in stone, and patients may receive hospice care for longer or shorter periods, depending on the progression of their illness.

Why Is Hospice Recommended?

Watching a loved one go through the final stages of life is heartbreaking for everyone. Hospice care steps in to offer compassionate support, not just for the patient but for the whole family. This care can take place in a hospital, a long-term care facility, or right at home, where the patient can be surrounded by familiar comforts. 

Hospice takes on the heavy lifting, creating a detailed care plan that eases the burden on family members, allowing them to cherish precious moments together. Plus, hospice care is personalized to honor the patient’s needs and wishes, ensuring they feel heard and respected during this sensitive time.

What Is The Difference Between Palliative Care and Hospice?

Palliative care and hospice care both aim to enhance quality of life and ease symptoms for patients. While they share this compassionate goal, there are certain differences between them:

What Diagnosis Do You Need For Hospice?

Starting hospice care involves meeting specific criteria set by the U.S. Centers for Medicare & Medicaid Services. These guidelines help determine if a patient's condition is appropriate for hospice without needing a fixed number of symptoms.

General Criteria for Hospice Eligibility:

• A prognosis of six months or less based on the disease's progression
• Multiple admissions or ER visits in the past six months
• Significant loss of weight, considering factors like edema
• Noticeable decline in energy levels and increased sleepiness
• Deterioration in mental functions and daily activities
• Challenges with tasks like eating, bathing, dressing, toileting, walking, and continence
• Decreased cognitive function
• Frequent infections
• Breakdown or worsening of skin condition
• General worsening of health and presence of other serious conditions

Does Hospice Mean You Are Giving Up?

Contrary to popular belief, choosing to go to a hospice does not mean you are giving up—it's about enabling yourself or your sick loved one to live as fully and comfortably as possible during the final stages of their life.

Hospice care provides the physical, emotional, and spiritual support needed to live fully. By managing symptoms, offering comfort, and providing emotional and spiritual guidance, hospice care helps patients and their families find peace and meaning during this difficult time.

It's also a way to respect the patient's wishes and preferences, ensuring that their journey towards the end of life truly aligns with what matters to them.

Conclusion

Choosing the right time to start hospice care for a loved one is tough, but it’s crucial for ensuring they get the best possible support in their final days. Recognizing the signs, understanding the eligibility requirements, and knowing what to expect can make this transition a bit easier.

Hospice care is all about comfort and quality of life, offering physical, emotional, and spiritual support. It's not about giving up; it's about making the most of the time left. By managing symptoms and respecting the patient’s wishes, hospice care helps families find peace and meaning during this challenging time.

If you're thinking about hospice care, don't hesitate to reach out to us at Valley Oaks Hospice. We're here to answer your questions and support you through every step, making sure your loved one gets the compassionate care they deserve.