Navigating Hospice Care

At Assisted Home Health & Hospice, we are committed to providing compassionate, holistic care tailored to the unique needs of each patient and their family. Hospice care is a deeply personal decision, and we’re here to help guide you through every step of the journey.

When Is a Patient Ready for Hospice?

Considering hospice care can be challenging, but certain situations might indicate it’s time to explore this option:

Multiple emergency room visits or hospital stays.
Noticeable or significant decline in health or unintentional weight loss.
Fatigue from ongoing treatment or a desire to discontinue curative care.
Recommendation by a healthcare provider.

How to Begin the Conversation

Discussing hospice can feel overwhelming, but finding the right time and approach makes a difference. Look for opportunities to open the conversation, like during discussions about a loved one’s condition or treatment goals.

Tips for Meaningful Conversations:

Choose a quiet, private space.
Use empathetic “I” statements instead of “You” statements.
Focus on the patient’s comfort and care.

Sample Conversation Starters:

“That last hospital visit seemed really hard on you. There are ways to provide care that can prevent future hospitalizations.”
“I’ve noticed you’ve been in pain lately. Hospice specializes in pain management to help you feel more comfortable.”

Our Hospice Care Team

We take a holistic approach, addressing both physical and emotional well-being. Our dedicated team includes:

Medical Director: Oversees care and ensures quality.
Registered Nurses: Manage symptoms and provide specialized care.
Certified Nursing Assistants: Assist with personal care, such as bathing and grooming.
Social Workers: Offer emotional support and connect families with resources.
Spiritual Counselors: Provide comfort and help explore personal beliefs.
Volunteers: Provide companionship and additional support.

What Hospice Covers

Hospice is designed to provide comfort and support without financial strain. Services and supplies covered include:

Medical Care: Symptom management, pain control, and routine checkups.
Medications: Hospice pays for medications related to the diagnosis and comfort.
Equipment & Supplies: Items like hospital beds, oxygen, incontinence products, and wound care supplies.

Who Pays for Hospice? Hospice care is covered 100% by Medicare, Medicaid, and most private insurance plans, with no out-of-pocket costs to the patient or family.

Planning Ahead for Peace of Mind

End-of-life discussions bring clarity and comfort to patients and families. Assisted recommends using the 5 Wishes booklet to outline care preferences, trusted decision-makers, and other important details. Preparing in advance allows loved ones to focus on what matters most: each other.

Click below to watch our Navigating Hospice videos.

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