When is it Time for Hospice?
It’s not always easy to know when to consider hospice, but recognizing the signs can help you make informed, compassionate decisions for your loved one.
Making the Decision
Making the decision to ask for hospice care can be difficult and a source of disagreement among family members. However, the patient’s condition may make it clear that it’s time for hospice. For example, the patient may be experiencing:
- Frequent hospital stays
- Recent weight loss
- Recurrent infections (e.g., urinary tract infections)
- Uncontrolled pain
- Shortness of breath
- Nausea and vomiting
- Decreased ability to perform activities of daily living (such as dressing and using the toilet)
In some cases, the patient may refuse further treatment for their illness or condition. In these situations, hospice care will keep the patient comfortable until they pass.
Hospice care may also be needed when family caregivers are exhausted and feel they are no longer able to provide the necessary care.
Our overriding concern is to ensure that each patient is treated with compassion and dignity as they approach the end of life.
Starting Hospice
Signs it may be time for hospice:
- Frequent hospitalizations/ER visits
- Frequent or reoccurring infections (UTIs)
- Decrease in ability to perform daily tasks, such as walking, eating, using the bathroom, personal cleaning and dressing
- Uncontrolled symptoms such as pain, nausea, shortness of breath
- Weight loss over the last 6 months
If you have questions or would like to discuss your situation, please call (470) 315-4728 to discuss your options.
A Care Planner will contact you to discuss options. Hospice care can begin within 4 hours of your initial contact.