How to know if it is time for hospice?

Opting for a hospice service is not easy. Not only is it difficult to determine if it is the right time for hospice, but taking that call can be psychologically challenging.

However, it is not wise to wait till the patient's condition worsens and he or she nears the last weeks of their life. To take full advantage of the care and support provided by Beta Hospice, the patient should start hospice care as early as possible. This will also help the family spend more quality time with their loved ones in their last days.

According to the National Hospice and Palliative Care Organization, most hospice patients suffer from the following medical conditions.

Cancer
Cardiac and circulatory diseases
Dementia/Alzheimer’s
Respiratory diseases
Stroke

If your loved one is suffering from any of the above conditions, here are some indicators that can help you determine if is time for hospice care:

Continued weakness and loss of physical strength

Unbearable pain

Breathlessness

Inability to move without assistance

The patient requires assistance to bathe, dress, or use the bathroom

Decreasing appetite

Cognitive impairment, mumbling or incomprehensible speech

Acute weight loss caused by the condition

The patient always feels sleepy or withdrawn

Regular visits to the hospital with little or no result

The patient requires continuous attention and care

When regular intervention of a medical professional becomes necessary

Besides the above-mentioned indicators, there may be some other reasons why opting for a hospice service may be advised. In case you are not sure, the qualified team of professionals at Beta Hospice will help you determine if it is time to call in hospice services.

Don't shy away from getting in touch, we offer a free initial consultation to help you decide if you are ready to take up hospice services. Besides, the more we know about the patient, the better care plan we can draft for them.

Get in touch now.