Is Hospice Only for End-of-Life?

January 24, 2024 by Golden Rule Hospice

There is a common misconception that when a patient enters hospice, they have only days to live. While this is true in some situations, in many, patients may live for months on hospice.

Hospice is only for end-of-life care. But the referral can be made as soon as the patient’s doctor gives a terminal diagnosis with a six-month life expectancy.

Patients May Live for Many Months on Hospice care.

Getting a patient into hospice early once it is approved can be beneficial. Research shows that patients who enter hospice care may live up to 29 days longer on average than those who do not enter hospice.

This same study points out that people sometimes worry that palliative medications will cause hospice patients to die sooner. This is incorrect, and this false belief may cause a patient or their family to put off the move to hospice care. But avoiding hospice is more likely to reduce the patient’s lifespan than extend it.

There are cases where a hospice patient may even live longer than six months. Hospice care can be renewed as many times as needed.

If you want to maximize your loved one’s remaining time and quality of life, making the move to hospice sooner rather than later is wise.

Some Patients are Discharged from Hospice

Patients may be discharged from hospice for a variety of reasons. But one possibility is the scenario where they are no longer considered to be terminal. Sometimes patients improve enough in hospice care to no longer qualify. At that point, they transfer out. They can transfer back into hospice care if they receive a new terminal diagnosis.

Hospice Bereavement Support Continues After the Patient Passes Away

Another thing to know about hospice care is that it is for the patient’s whole family, not only the patient. Moreover, bereavement support for the family continues for up to 12 months after the patient dies. That means that hospice care spans the end-of-life period as well as the following year. Bereavement services include counselling support groups and additional resources.

Learn How We Can Help

Golden Rule Hospice can provide compassionate end-of-life care to your loved one along with bereavement support to your family. To find out more about our hospice services in Georgia, please give us a call at (470) 395-6567. We provide hospice care to patients throughout the Atlanta metropolitan area.

In What Scenarios are Hospice Patients Discharged?

December 26, 2023 by Golden Rule Hospice

When a patient is admitted to hospice care, it is because their condition is terminal. A doctor has given the patient six months to live. If, after six months, the patient is still alive but continues to need hospice care, the care can be renewed. But what happens if the patient improves significantly? Sometimes, it means leaving hospice until it is needed again.

When a patient leaves hospice in this way, it is referred to as a “discharge.” Here are situations which would necessitate a discharge:

If the patient is no longer believed to be terminal, then they would be discharged from hospice.

If the patient themselves no longer wishes to be in hospice, they can also voluntarily opt out.

Patients might opt out of hospice for any number of reasons. Perhaps they feel their health is sufficiently improved to no longer require hospice, or maybe they have other reasons for desiring to leave. They might simply be looking for a better fit, for example.

There are a couple of other reasons hospices may discharge patients that are not related directly to health:

Sometimes a patient may transfer from one hospice to another.

If a hospice is unable to effectively perform its services due to disruptive behavior from a patient, sometimes the patient may be discharged.

If you find yourself in a scenario where you disagree with the hospice’s decision to discharge, you can file an appeal.

What if a patient is discharged due to health improvements, but then later takes a downturn again? If the patient’s doctor again believes that the patient has a six month life expectancy, then the patient may resume hospice care.

Get Compassionate Care in Atlanta

We know that you probably have many questions about hospice care and how it works. We can answer your questions in detail and explain how we can help you and your loved ones when you give us a call to schedule a consultation. Please contact us at (470) 395-6567 to learn more about our hospice services in Atlanta.

Reasons Why Hospice Care Isn’t “Giving Up”

November 26, 2023 by Golden Rule Hospice

When one thinks of hospice, they think that death is right around the corner or it is to be within the last week or so of the life of their loved one, and it’s giving up. However, this is not so. Although common to think this way, the truth is that entering hospice is not giving up but adding additional care for the one in hospice and the family.

Reasons Hospice Isnt Giving Up

A full team of professionals, RN’s, Aides, Social Workers, and Chaplains join the family to give caring, loving and professional help where needed. Entering hospice is seizing opportunities to embrace hope, peace and comfort when needed the most. Here are a few reasons why hospice care is about seizing hope and not letting go.

Patients often live longer in hospice. The study “Life Expectancy and Hospice Care” published in American Family Physician in 2018 explains that patients who receive even a single day of hospice care may live up to three months longer than they would otherwise, depending on when the patient comes into hospice and the progression of the disease. Yet the study shows that hospice care truly benefits the patient and family. Battling a terminal condition can be a stressful, time-consuming, exhausting and often painful experience. Seen in that light, perhaps it should not surprise us that switching to a focus on treating the symptoms and allowing the patient to rest should result in a longer life expectancy.

Hospice can reduce symptoms. Terminal conditions often produce debilitating pain and other symptoms that reduce quality of life. When a patient’s diagnosis is terminal, shifting focus from quantity to quality is often the best way to maximize the life that remains. A patient’s final months may be a great deal more fulfilling when their pain is eased, and they have the support they need.

While in hospice, patients can structure their time as they see fit. As we mentioned already, attempting to treat or cure a terminal disease can involve a large amount of time and stress. Releasing those efforts and receiving hospice care in the home instead can free up a lot more of a patient’s remaining time. Don Edwards of Golden Rule Hospice quoted “The patient is then free to spend that time how they choose. They can take more time to be with family and friends, or they can use it to engage with their hobbies and passions. Every moment can be filled with meaning and value.”

Hospice helps to restore a sense of control to the patient.It may seem counterintuitive, but a lot of patients feel like they gain control by entering hospice care. That seems backwards at first, because when we fight a terminal disease, we are trying to take control of a desperate situation. Sometimes, the disease progression is too advanced and cannot be treated effectively. In cases where that fight becomes a futile one, continuing to battle does not give the patient more control. Instead, it diverts their attention and energy away from what they can control. Entering into hospice care gives back the dignity of life and comfort to the family and patient. This can also bring a sense of relief and peace.

Learn How Golden Rule Can Help Bring Relief to You or Your Loved One

Deciding to begin hospice care is not “giving up.” In many ways, it is the exact opposite. If you are ready to find out more about how hospice care can increase quality of life and restore control for you or your loved one, Golden Rule Hospice is here to offer compassionate and respectful care. To schedule your consultation, please call (470) 395-6567. We have locations in Atlanta and Alpharetta, and work with patients and their loved ones throughout the metropolitan area.

Zarrin I.

19:41 17 Nov 24

Vivienne has done a great job at our house. We are thankful for her care and appreciate the time she spends here.

Nancy B.

20:06 13 Nov 24

Reggie and Vivian have provided great care for my father. They are gentle and kind and Dad feels comforted and well cared for.

Americo B.

21:26 26 Oct 24

My wife went really fast, was gone in three days. She just loved our nurse and the caring and compassion she showed my wife. It meant a lot. They immediately set about to make sure she was in no pain. She passed away and her face showed no sign of being in pain. She looked like she was peacefully sleeping. Thanks for the care you gave her.

WLASHAUN J.

20:30 18 Oct 24

This is our first experience with Golden Rule. So far, so good. Each week we receive a report as the facility...we like that.Vivian, the CNA has been the BEST-compassionate for sure. Reggie responds quickly and is attentive to the need of resident and staff. As the Executive Director, we are pleased with Golden Rule Hospice.

Ayers B.

20:11 17 Oct 24

From Tracy Ayers & Kurt Kinoshita. The staff from beginning to end were gentle and thoughtful with all their interactions. From Angie, the intake nurse, to Chris who was filling in in those first days. Also Liz and the volunteers who checked in during the whole process. Also the nurses who helped answer my phone call questions. Most importantly were Reggie my hospice nurse and Vivian my CNR. Those two helped me know what we were doing for my wife was correct. I thank you for the upfront honesty when I asked for it. I especially am so thankful for the amount of respect Reggie and Vivian showed my wife. I cannot say more about the whole process and how easy it was for me to use Golden Rule.

Yara H.

22:22 15 Oct 24

I cannot express enough gratitude for Shamile and Vivian and the rest of the Golden Rule Hospice team who cared for my dad. They were incredibly caring and responsive to all of his needs, always treating him with the utmost compassion and respect. Their ability to communicate with us through text made things so much easier during hard times. It gave us peace of mind knowing we could reach out at any moment, and they always responded with kindness. Truly, these are loving and dedicated people who go above and beyond. My dad was always so comfortable with Vivian, and after being agitated for hours, her gentle care would relax him so much that he would fall into a peaceful sleep every time she visited. We felt supported every step of the way, and I would highly recommend them to anyone in need of hospice care.

Yolanda W.

15:27 03 Oct 24

THIS COMPANY IS AMAZING!!!! REGGIE AND VIVIAN COME TO MONTCLAIR ASSISTED LIVING AND TAKE VERY GOOD CARE OF OUR RESIDENTS, THEY ALSO GO OVER AND BEYOND WITH HELPING US WITH OUR WELLNESS CLINIC EVERY MONTH. IF YOU ARE LOOKING FOR A GREAT HOSPICE COMPANY WITH THESE TOO TAG TEAMING, THESE ARE THE PERFECT ONES TO CHOOSE!!

Velvet W.

16:13 23 Aug 24

Minnie Baker is a blessing to the hospice team.She dies an amazing job taking care of our love one at Briarwood nursing home.Sge made sure he was always clean and dressed very well. She has a wonderful personality to go with her professional attitude

Judy M.

16:06 05 Jun 24

We engaged with Golden Rule to help care for our seeet Mimi. It turned out to be a long 7 months, but the wonderful people at Golden Rule were with us every step of the way. From our side, Stephanie, who showed such love and compassion to our Mimi, to the social worker who helped us source additional care, to the spiritual provider who checked in with us regularly, to our nurse, Chris, who ensured Mimi received the best possible care, and to all the folks behind the scenes. Everyone was here not just for our loved one but to support the family and to help reduce the burden anyway they could. Whether it was getting us equipment and supplies or just checking in, they were always there for us. It is an incredibly difficult decision to call for hospice care, but when the time comes it is the best decision. Please don’t try to do it alone when these wonderful people are here to help. We wanted our sweet Mimi to pass away at home and that never would have been possible without the team at Golden Rule.

Neenee L.

18:23 04 Jun 24

Ms Minnie CNA,and Reggie cook RN are the best at when they come in our building Haborview I recommend and recognize their hard work and dedication 😉

Veronica E.

02:31 17 May 24

I am very grateful to Golden Rule Hospice for the awesome services that they are providing for my family. Our CNA Caroline is caring, attentive and patient with my mom. Caroline’s love and kindness puts my mom at ease. She treats my mom as if she is her mom and for this I am ever thankful.

Cheryl M.

18:59 06 May 24

The staff at “ Golden Rule Hospice” demonstrated unwavering dedication, professionalism, and kindness throughout the time I spent working with them. They not only provided expert medical care for my client but also extended emotional support and guidance to the family. “ Chris Hill, RN” was amazing. My agency “ Professional Care Nursing Agency” will always & most definitely recommend this company.

Raymond H.

12:39 30 Apr 24

My experience with CNA Minnie Baker at Golden Rule Hospice has been exceptional. Ms. Baker's dedication and attentiveness have made a significant difference in the care of our loved one during their transition.Ms. Baker's professionalism and empathy shine through in her interactions. She takes the time to understand our loved one's needs and ensures they are met with the utmost care and compassion. Her gentle demeanor and reassuring presence have provided comfort during this challenging time.One of the things that stand out about Ms. Baker is her attention to detail. She goes above and beyond to make sure our loved one is comfortable and receiving the best treatment possible. Whether it's adjusting pillows, ensuring medication schedules are followed, or simply offering a listening ear, Ms. Baker's dedication to her work is evident.Furthermore, Ms. Baker is proactive in addressing any concerns or changes in our loved one's condition. She communicates effectively with the rest of the hospice team, including nurses and doctors, to ensure everyone is on the same page regarding our loved one's care plan.Overall, I cannot speak highly enough of Ms. Minnie Baker and the care she provides at Golden Rule Hospice. Her professionalism, attentiveness, and compassion make her an invaluable member of the hospice team, and we are grateful for her dedication to ensuring our loved one's comfort and well-being during this difficult time.I would also like to add that hospice nurse Shamille was amazing as well! Such an amazing spirit and truly knows and loves her job. We are forever grateful for this amazing company as they help my loved one transition with dignity and pride.

Geoff W.

16:08 21 Apr 24

Chris & Ebony are the consummate caring and professional staff we were hoping to find. EXCELLENT communicators, conscientious, on time and relevant. We are 100% pleased with their care if Mom.

Allison D.

21:15 20 Apr 24

Golden Rule Hospice has been a blessing to our family. Chris and Dawn have been wonderfully kind and patient with my mother. We couldn’t have asked for a better experience. Our questions and concerns were always answered quickly, and Golden Rule stayed in constant contact with us throughout my mother’s time in their care. We will continue to recommend them highly.

Dan R.

11:47 16 Apr 24

Harlee and Stephanie from Golden Rule provide hospice care for my sister who is a resident in the memory unit at The Lodge near Jasper. As my sister’s disease progresses she needs professional and loving care beyond what the Lodge’s staff can provide (they also do a great job) - but the hospice care Golden Rule provides is necessary and critical. The extra care my sister receives is making a difference for my sister’s well being. They address issues quickly and ensure my sister’s care, from them and the entire Golden Rule hospice team and they coordinate well with the memory care staff. If you need hospice care, I definitely recommend you check out Golden Rule.

Kathy H.

23:22 04 Apr 24

During such a hard time, Golden Rule hospice has made this process easier. Our nurse Chris Hill, has demonstrated extreme patience, shown amazing bed size manners, and has shared his incredible knowledge of the process and stages we would endure.Our CNA Andre is extremely gentle with a caring touch. His patience and ideas on how to make our fathers care more comfortable is second to none.We love our entire team; including our weekend on call nurse Sunday. Who always brings a smile to the room.This has been a difficult and rewarding process made better by the Golden Rule Team.

Robert L.

03:58 04 Apr 24

Stephanie does a magnificent job with my wife. She is very understanding and a great comfort to her. She listens to my wife's needs and helps in anyway that she can. She is a fine representative of Golden Rule and I couldn't ask for a better person to care for my wife.Robert Lomba

Diana P.

21:55 03 Apr 24

Golden Rule Hospice was highly recommended by my GP when my husband became so ill. So very grateful I took his advice. Each and every person I have met thru this company has shown such kindness and empathy for myself and my husband in our situation. I cannot thank them enough for all they do. I recommend Golden Rule to any family in need .

lori F.

13:26 30 Mar 24

Golden Rule Hospice is a great organization with truly caring and kind caregivers! They are always quick to respond with help and solutions for any medical or other issues that arise. They check-in often to update us and to make sure our loved one is happy with their services. We are grateful for all of the wonderful support they provide.

Monique S.

12:06 29 Mar 24

The staff at Golden Rule Hospice were awesome while taking care of my mom who had end stage Alzheimers dementia. Through the rough times theircare and compassion was unwavering.Mom enjoyed her visits from Nurse Penny and caregiver Dawn. She looked forward to their visits which were a highlight of her day. I am thankful to all who assisted in her care. They are extended family.Nurse Penny has sent weekly inspirational messages since my mom's passing on January 17, 2024. The messages are encouraging and greatly appreciated.Thank you Golden Rule Hospice!

JL K

11:43 21 Jan 24

When Piedmont Fayette Hospital abruptly informed me that my father was going to die, and they were releasing him to home hospice at my house. I was shocked and in a panic. Because of that, I regrettably took the social workers recommendation for the initial hospice provider- Compassus… (see that review separately) they were AWFUL.I started frantically searching for another hospice provider which is how I found Golden Rule Hospice and let me tell you, they are INCREDIBLE!Home hospice is not an enjoyable experience by any stretch of the imagination, but the folks at Golden Rule made it as bearable as I think, such an experience can be. The difference between the two providers was stark; callous indifference from the first one to genuine Care and compassion from Golden Rule. Every person I encountered from Golden Rule was gentle, patient and kind. Not just to my father, but to my husband and me as well. In fact, my husband had a business trip scheduled for the following week and I was fretting about how I would manage by myself and they told me not to worry, they’d find my dad a bed in an inpatient facility for the night, which was a huge relief- even though we ultimately didn’t need it.I also wanted to find an aquamation provider for my fathers remains but I was unable to locate one on my own so I decided to ask the social worker assigned to me at Golden Rule and she quickly got back to me with the only provider in GA!! (At the time at least)The staff continued to follow up with me after my father’s passing to check in on how we were doing, it felt like they genuinely cared. Thank you golden rule for living up to your name!

Cheryl L.

19:33 11 Nov 23

Words are inadequate to truly express our thanks to Golden Rule Hospice and Chaplain Joe for going over and beyond to provide grief counseling for us. The sessions were very encouraging and helpful as we adjust to our new norm.

stanka P.

15:29 22 Sep 23

My experience with Vivian Robinsonfrom hospice @ Montclair/ Clairmont place has been phenomenal she’s very knowledgeable and explains things very easily for you to understand. Vivian is great at what she does and not to mention very caring and thoughtful with the patient and their families. I’ve had the pleasure as a Private caregiver to experience all of her greatfulness and loving compassionate spirit, she’s been wonderful with my client and I’ve seen how great she works with other residents she goes over and beyond also by providing beautiful accessories and clothing for the residents to look nice at all times. Lastly from everyone I’ve met thru Golden Rule are great at what they do and everyone is so loving and caring and they really care about the patients and are not just there for a check which makes a huge difference. I would highly recommend Vivian and any other staff from Golden Rule for your hospice care needs. Excellent job

marion C.

17:15 21 Sep 23

Vivian Robinson is a wonderful caregiver who takes excellent care of my wife who unfortunately suffers from dementia. Vivian is patient but firm when needed and always completes the cleaning tasks efficiently but with kindness. Vivian has a helpful and compassionate personality and it is reflective in all her activities with my wife. I am most appreciative of her concern for my wife and her many efforts to ensure my wife’s dignity is maintained even under difficult circumstances. I recommend her highly. Marion Creekmore

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16:45 02 Aug 23

Shantel H.

16:09 09 Jun 23

Shermain is attentive and engaged with my grandmother. I appreciate her keeping me in the loop when she goes to care for her. Shermain has been an asset and blessing to us:)

Josephine W.

22:52 08 Jun 23

Sherman is a very outstanding person she is so good to my mother and me ya'll need a lot more people like her she is a lot helpful and very caring person thank u so much shamaine

Laura B.

15:31 08 Jun 23

The CMA nurse (Shermain) is just an outstanding care person with my mother Mrs. Lourene Hall. My mother really love, and she know how to handle my mother. I thank God you all have Shermain on your team.

MONA L.

22:44 01 Mar 23

This place is completely amazing. And the one Amazing CNA named Ms. Minnie Baker, she is an angel in disguise. I don't see her all the time but she is always there when I'm at my lowest with my family. If you ever have the pleasure of meeting her take the time. She is just a Truly An Angel from heaven.

The Key && Tre S.

19:25 01 Mar 23

My grandma is at phoenix of lake Lanier and she has the best hospice nurse her name is Marian Trice she is the best nurse my grandma has had since she’s been there she’s so great my grandma ask for her daily we love her and thank you guys for her .

Celina F.

19:05 01 Mar 23

Thankyou to Marian, for all you do!! A wonderful Nurse, during challenging times, as these, I feel confident my Grandmother has the best care. You have such a gentle touch, professional and ohh so Patient!! Our Family can not Thankyou enough!

Chelly N.

18:33 01 Mar 23

The residents have already started sparkling! Thank you Ms Vivian R. Thank you Golden rule..U rock! Clinical director , Montclair PCH

Carmen R.

17:24 01 Mar 23

Vivan Robinson is a CNA for Golden Rule Hospice she is a genuine individual who performs patient care with compassion.

Joshua S.

01:16 01 Mar 23

Vivan R- is one of the most caring person I know, she’s takes great care for the ones she cares for. Her work ethic is like no other.

Robin H.

23:17 28 Feb 23

My Mother’s CNA Kia is a super bright light at Golden Rule Hospice. I have truly appreciated all of her care and support. Kia is extremely professional and kind. You can tell she really cares about what she does. She has been a real comfort and a big help to my mom. I can’t say thank you enough.

Jalina R.

21:41 28 Feb 23

Vivian R- Works for golden rule hospice. she is an excellent caregiver for anyone that she takes care of. She is very thorough, and does above and beyond. I would recommend this company to anyone. They are amazing.

Adrienne M.

16:25 28 Feb 23

My family and I were connected with Alex Raspberry after our Dad’s hospital stay for congestive hear failure. As a result of this diagnosis our family started planning for Dad’s transition with hospice care. Alex provided detailed information about Golden Rule Hospice services, the care givers and various assisted living and nursing care options. Alex listened to our needs. He was kind and responsive. Although we did not use Golden Rule Hospice I would highly recommend Alex and his team to friends and family in the Atlanta area.God BlessAdrienne McClary Holland

Tara G.

21:25 24 Feb 23

I absolutely love Vivian Robinson! She is the most amazing person you could ever meet! Vivian takes great care of our residents here at Legacy Ridge at Marietta! She never falls short on care! She always communicates with me and my team! The residents love her so much! Golden Rule has a winner with Vivian!Signed a happy Executive Director!🥰

Gwynn Blount B.

16:06 22 Feb 23

Caroline continues to provide great CNA support. She is knowledgeable, flexible and caring. My Mom absolutely loves her and so do I. Not sure what we would do without her.

Cavel B.

22:59 17 Feb 23

My mom was so well taken care of by Nurse Roderette and Caroline in her final days. They are truly Angels on Earth. I appreciate how kind they were to our family. Outstanding service with love.

Vinetta H.

23:46 12 Oct 22

This agency is a blessing. They came in and provided all the help that I needed to care for my loved one. They are very helpful. I love all the ladies that came to my house. I would recommend them for your Hospice needs.

Ana C.

12:36 12 Apr 22

Terri S.

21:17 21 Feb 22

Once hospice was suggested for my mother, I got several recommendations and during a very difficult time was pleased with our choice of Golden Rule! From the initial meeting, to the compassionate care my mother received for 5 months , to follow up phone calls after my mother passed, the entire staff was highly personable and professional. My mother always felt comfortable and confident with her caregivers. Her wishes were always considered and she was treated with such dignity. Penny was an awesome nurse, always willing to have the most difficult but honest conversations with me ! If your loved one is in need of hospice / palliative care I can assure you that he/she will be “in the best hands” with Golden Rule

Penny C.

16:04 18 Feb 22

Jason Y

16:44 15 Feb 22

I really enjoyed the service of this hospice especially from Danielle and her great personality. She made every visit an amazing experience for my uncle before he passed away. I highly recommend this hospice

reggie C.

14:11 11 Feb 22

Golden Rule Hospice is a wonderful company, I definitely recommend it.

Danielle W.

21:21 10 Feb 22

Tiara T.

21:20 10 Feb 22

Angela L.

17:33 05 Mar 21

They provide the best service ever to our Residents in their care. Their clinical manager, Barbara Folks-Pryce, who comes to our community is the reason I choose this provider as our preferred hospice group. She is professional, kind, and understanding. She excels in listening, anticipating the needs of our Residents, and executing our requests. We greatly appreciate her excellent communication with our nursing staff and that she's always available whether in person or by phone. I'm truly impressed with Barbara's exemplary work performance. She's an excellent representation of Golden Rule Hospice.