HOSPICE CARE

Hospice care is a unique treatment that aims to improve the quality of existence for those suffering from advanced life-limiting disease and their carers. Hospice offers high-quality care in the final stages of incurable illness so that individuals may live as comfortably and as completely as possible.

Death is the ultimate stage of life in the hospice philosophy: it confirms life. However, it does not attempt to hurry or postpone death. Hospice treatment is not the illness itself but treats a person and stage of the condition. Besides, a team of specialists works together to control the symptoms so that people spend their final days, accompanied by their loved ones, with dignity and quality. Hospice care is also family-centered, wherein the decision-making is done by the patient, together with his/her family.

What is the Best Time to Begin Hospice Care?

When a condition, such as advanced cancer, has progressed to the point where treatment can no longer heal or manage it, hospice care is being used. In general, this treatment must be employed when a person’s life expectancy is projected to be 6 months or fewer if their condition progresses normally. Also, people with severe cancer ought to have a conversation with their family and doctor about when this treatment should start.

According to research, this treatment is frequently delayed. Sometimes a doctor, a patient, or a close relative would object to hospice since they believe it implies “giving up” or that there is no chance. It’s crucial to understand that you can leave hospice at any time and begin active medical care. However, hospice offers the chance of a quality life, allowing patients to make the most of each day while they are in the latter stages of their illness.

Because some doctors fail to mention hospice, the patient or a member of the family may opt to initiate the discussion. If your therapy is no longer working and you’ve exhausted all other choices, talk to your doctor or a specialist about hospice.

How Does Hospice Care Work?

All hospice providers must provide certain services. They do, however, adopt a variety of approaches to customer service, work patterns, and the sorts of support services they offer.

  • Symptom management and palliative care
  • Inpatient and home care hospice care 
  • Family meetings
  • Spiritual care
  • Respite care
  • Bereavement care

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