When to Choose Hospice

Studies indicate that people who receive hospice care frequently enjoy a longer and better quality of life than those who do not choose hospice. Our hospice program also provides support and resources for caregivers as well. 

Hospice should be considered if:

• You have a diagnosis of a life-limiting condition such as heart, lung or kidney disease; ALS; AIDS; Alzheimer’s disease; or cancer.
• You have a life expectancy of six months or less has been determined, based on a physician’s  clinical judgment regarding the normal course of your illness. However, many people live longer and enjoy a better quality of life when they receive hospice care.
• The goal of care is comfort rather than a cure.

A few common signs you or a loved one may be ready for hospice care include:

• Repeated hospitalizations or emergency room visits
• Failure to recover after medical interventions
• Increased need for assistance with activities of daily living
• Increased pain, nausea, difficulty breathing and other symptoms
• Increase in time spent sleeping

If your loved one has a life-limiting illness, your family may benefit from hospice services if:

• You experience caregiver fatigue (physical and/or emotional).
• The demands of caregiving leave your family feeling isolated and uncertain.
• You are overwhelmed with decisions about what is right for your loved one – medically, financially, emotionally and spiritually.