The concept of hospice is confusing for many. Hospice was initially used for those with six months or less to live. Today, hospice refers to specialized care for certain patients who may not have long to live. These patients need a different level of care, and that is when hospice comes in. Hospice caregivers provide a more intense level of care. Their aim is to make patients comfortable and keep them out of the hospital. Further, patients are able to receive hospice care in the home or wherever they live, including assisted living or other facilities.
There are several ways to tell if a loved one is ready for Hospice Care At Home. For instance, the health is failing despite ongoing medical treatment. Also, one’s health starts to affect their quality of life. This means a person can no longer take care of their daily needs. The biggest indicator is when the doctor has nothing more to offer the patient. Hospice Care At Home allows individuals to spend their final months in familiar surroundings. Hospice care is led by a team starting with the primary care physician. The rest of the team keeps in contact with the physician at all times.
A registered nurse case manager oversees the patient’s care. They visit the home at regular intervals and report any changes to the physician. The case manager begins by meeting with the family and discussing everyone’s needs. They order any special equipment that is needed including a hospital bed and shower chair. Hospice aides are also on the team. These professionals assist the patient with personal needs. They come on a regular basis to help with bathing and grooming. Likewise, they will help with light cleaning and cooking. Finally, a social worker rounds out the team. The social worker helps the patient and family to cut through a lot of red tapes. They have information about helpful community resources. Signing a hospice patient up with Meals on Wheels is very valuable. In addition, the social worker helps the patient if they ever want to relocate to a facility. Fortunately, medicare pays for hospice services. If someone in your family needs hospice services, talk to their physician.
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