Signs to Look for That Indicate It’s Time for Hospice Care
Hospice care is an important part of end-of-life care. It provides specialized care to individuals with terminal illness and their families. It is designed to improve quality of life by helping to manage physical, emotional, and spiritual symptoms and providing support for family members. Knowing when to call hospice can be difficult, but some signs indicate it is time to consider hospice care.
1. Loss of Appetite
If a person can no longer eat or their appetite is waning, it might indicate that their time is drawing near. Hospice care can provide nourishment to ensure patients receive the vital nutrients they require.
2. Weight Loss
Losing weight without any identifiable cause can indicate that a person’s ability to eat and process food is declining. In such cases, hospice care can offer nutritional assistance to help the patient maintain a healthy weight.
3. Increasing Pain
If a person is struggling with pain not being alleviated with medication, hospice care may be a viable option to help reduce the discomfort and improve their quality of life.
4. Loss of Mobility
If a person is nearing the end of their life, they may be experiencing difficulty moving or unable to move at all. Hospice care can provide physical therapy and other resources to help keep the person as mobile as possible and make their end-of-life experience comfortable.
5. Loss of Interest
If a patient is no longer interested in activities they used to enjoy or has lost the ability to communicate, this can signify that they are nearing the end of life. Hospice can provide emotional support to help the patient and family cope with this difficult time.
How to Talk to Family Members About Calling Hospice
The subject of hospice care is often difficult to approach and can be even more difficult to discuss with family members. However, it is important to discuss hospice care with family members so that they are informed and can make the best decisions for their loved ones.
Be Prepared
Before you start the conversation, take some time to prepare yourself. Think about what you want to say and how you want to say it. It is also helpful to write down your thoughts so that you can refer to them during the conversation.
Explain the Benefits of Hospice Care
Explain to family members the advantages of hospice care. Point out that hospice is designed to help improve the quality of life for a person with a serious illness. Elaborate on how this care can reduce suffering and comfort the individual. Highlight that hospice can lessen pain and make the person more comfortable.
Final Thoughts
If you or a loved one are exhibiting any of these signs, it may be time to consider hospice care. Hospice can provide specialized care and support to help the patient and family cope with the end stages of life.
Our 24-hour nursing care in Morristown makes us the perfect place to provide superior care between a hospital and a home. We have the privilege of being part of Atlantic Health System’s FICT program and our commitment to patient-centered care is reflected in our status. Our team is dedicated to providing exceptional medical services with a compassionate touch. Reach out to us today.