It is not easy for anyone when a family member is diagnosed with a disease that can no longer be cured. It involves a lot of courage, love, and acceptance. Dealing with these circumstances and being with that person enjoying every second is fundamental for everyone involved in the process.
There is a lot to know about Hospice Care. We want to share some facts about hospice care to understand its importance and details.
Hospice can be provided at home.
It is a fact that when patients are at home, they feel better because family members and loved ones surround them. Usually, hospice care is provided where the patient calls home or feels most comfortable, even though hospitals, nursing homes, freestanding hospice facilities, or others can provide it.
It's the patient's choice.
There is a misconception that hospice care is a process in which once started cannot be stopped. Hospice patients (or a very close family member) can call off or suspend the status when they want or feel it is not for them. At the same time, they can involve themselves in the process again if they meet the criteria and eligibility.
Medicine can be administered during hospice care.
Even though the patient is currently dealing with a terminal disease, medicines could be needed to make the patient feel comfortable. Doctors will prescribe medication to manage symptoms and ease the pain if and when needed.
Patients are not limited to how long they can get service.
Even though hospice requires a life expectancy of under six months, there is a probability of increasing the life expectancy because patients can be at ease. The hospice period can be extended if the patient responds positively.
100% expenses are covered.
Medicare will always cover 100% of the cost. Coverage includes medicines, doctors, nurses, and equipment related to the diagnosis. Additional expenses will only occur if patient needs respite care for longer than 5 days. Some medications outside of the hospice care for your illness will not be covered.To learn more about hospice expenses, check our blog, Who pays for Hospice Care at home?
Try to start hospice services when the patient is diagnosed with a terminal disease. Their quality of life improves significantly if hospice care starts sooner rather than later. Even creating a plan in advance can help alleviate some stressors if you are diagnosed with a terminal illness.
We understand the difficulty
Taking care of your loved one can be difficult. Understanding and being comprehensive to the needs of your loved one is as essential as hospice care. It is important to know this information when you have a family member or a close one in this situation.
Specialized nurses are preferred for hospice care. At Ascend, we provide the best, most caring, and compassionate caregivers in Texas. We can help you and your family with this process.
We are available to you any time, just one phone call away. We invite you to read more about our services and story, so in case you ever need it, we are there for you.
