Most people want to pass peacefully at home, free of pain and surrounded by those they love. For many people, that’s possible. But as death approaches, most people will need more care than family and friends can provide.
That’s when hospice can help.
Choosing the time when hospice care should begin for a loved one is a difficult decision. There are many factors to consider, and it is essential to have all the information before making a decision. Here are some things to think about when deciding if the time is right to start hospice care for your loved one.
What Is Hospice Care?
Hospice care is a type of health care that focuses on the palliation and management of terminal illnesses. It is typically provided by a team of healthcare professionals who work together to provide comprehensive care for the patient and their family. Hospice care can be provided in a variety of settings, including the patient’s home, a nursing home, or a hospice facility.
The goal of hospice care is to provide comfort and support to the patient and their family during the final stages of a terminal illness. Hospice care teams work to manage the symptoms of the disease and to provide emotional and spiritual support to the patient and their loved ones. Hospice care is typically offered for six months or less.
Why Do Some Families Tend to Start Hospice Care Too Late?
Unfortunately, starting hospice care too late is a reality for many families. There are a number of reasons why this might happen, from a lack of understanding about what hospice is to simply feeling like it’s too late to make a change.
For many people, the word “hospice” conjures up images of giving up or giving in. Hospice is often thought of as a last resort, only considered when all other options have been exhausted. This is one of the biggest reasons why families start hospice care too late — they think that by admitting they need hospice, they are giving up hope.
In reality, hospice is about living as fully as possible for as long as possible. It is not about giving up but rather about making the most of the remaining time. Hospice can provide comfort and support to both the patient and the family, making the process of dying a more peaceful one.
When Is The Right Time to Start Hospice Care?
When is the right time to start hospice care? This is a difficult question to answer, as many factors must be considered. Ultimately, the decision should be made by the patient and their family, in consultation with their doctor.
There are a few general guidelines that can be followed, however. Hospice care is typically recommended when a patient has a life-limiting illness, and their prognosis is six months or less. This care is focused on providing comfort and support rather than trying to cure the underlying condition.
It is crucial to start hospice care early enough to ensure that the patient and their family have time to adjust to the diagnosis and prepare for the end of life. However, it is also important not to wait too long, as hospice care can be beneficial at any stage of a terminal illness.
Final Thoughts
Hospice care is an important step in providing comfort and care for your loved one during their final stages of life. It’s best to consult with your loved one’s doctor to determine when the right time is to start hospice care. However, hospice care can be started as early as possible to help manage pain and other symptoms.
Contact Your Atlanta Hospice Care Expert Today!
If you’re looking for the best hospice care in Atlanta, you should contact Golden Rule Hospice. We offer hospice and palliative care across the Metropolitan Atlanta area, for five different care levels, depending on the need. Schedule a consultation with us today at (470) 395-6567 for more information.
We live by the Golden Rule
Treat others the way you would like to be treated.
