Caring for a loved one at the end of their life is a challenging and emotional experience for both the patient and caregiver. Though death and dying are, of course, a natural part of the human experience, dying from a terminal illness generates a unique set of questions and concerns. If your loved one is mentally competent, make sure they are part of the decision-making process.
Considerations for deciding on hospice care:
Life expectancy of fewer than six months.
Increased or changing medications.
Mobility limitations- Mobility limitations would include getting in and out of bed, the ability to use the bathroom, bathe, or dress on their own.
Availability of family or friends who can provide care
While deciding if hospice care is the best choice for your loved one and family, it is also important to take into consideration the benefits of hospice care.
Benefits hospice can offer the patient and family:
1. Medical resources– Hospice caregivers have the training and resources to make sure your loved one’s medical needs are kept up to date, including decisions about equipment needed for limited mobility or increased medical visits.
2. Flexibility– Care is provided where your loved one is the most comfortable, at homes, an assisted care facility, or a hospice care center.
3. Medication– Hospice caregivers are trained to realize the need for adjusting medication for pain management and comfort.
4. Emotional– An important part of dealing with the end of life process is addressing the emotional challenges of both the patient and the family. Hospice caregivers are trained and equipped to do this.
5. Spiritual– It is important that the patient’s religious beliefs be respected and honored. A hospice worker will be sensitive and helpful no matter the individual’s faith or belief system, including non-believers.
6. Bereavement Support– It is important for family and close friends to have emotional support and access to resources surrounding grief and bereavement at the time of death and for the months that follow. Hospice caregivers also realize the grieving process starts for some individuals before the patient is deceased. They can offer support and also put you in touch with support groups and counselors.
The responsibility for the care and comfort of a loved one at the end of their life is something most of us will have at some point in our lifetimes. It is important to know there are resources available. A good place to start is the America Cancer Society to find out more about resources in your community.
Choosing hospice care will also give the family caregiver(s) more time to deal with funeral arrangements, estate planning and other legalities but most importantly, the freedom to spend quality time with their loved one during this emotional and sensitive time of life.