loved one ready for Hospice?

Question

How do I know when loved one is ready for this?

Answer 1

I am sorry you are in the position to be making this kind of decision. I used to work for a hospice provider, so I know what a great service hospice can be. If your doctor believes the patient is terminal, and that if the disease runs its natural course, the life expectancy is less than 6 months, your loved one can benefit from hospice. Most hospice providers will require that treatment intending to "cure" the patient be stopped, and only treatment to keep the patient comfortable be used. Hospice provides home health aides that will come several times a week to care for your loved one and nurses that will oversee their care. They are great at keeping the patient pain free and as comfortable as possible. The visits will increase as the needs increase. Hospice also provides counseling for the family members for up to one year after your loved one passes away. They can also help with funeral arrangements.

Hospice can be provided at home or in the hospital or wherever the patient lives.

Answer 2

Why don't you ask? Sometimes the loved one would rather spend every moment of their time with family in familiar surroundings. Other times they prefer, to be away so they don't have to put on the brave face all the time for the family.I've had some family, that arranged at what point in their journey they would like to go into hospice with their doctor,relieving the family of that decision.