How to Prepare for Hospice Care

Hospice care, appropriate in the event of advanced, life-limiting illness, requires patients and loved ones to make profound changes in their expectations for care and treatment. Our associates from our hospice in South Jersey share some insights on how to prepare yourself or a loved one for this stage of care, and how to make this difficult transition easier.

Personal beliefs about hospice care. 

As hospice care is synonymous with the end of life, people understandably avoid talking or even thinking about this service. However, this leads to preconceived ideas about what hospice entails, as well as a fear of the unknown.

In reality, hospice care focuses on making sure everything possible is done to keep patients comfortable — from meeting physical, medical and hygiene needs to ensuring pleasant surroundings and support for patients and families. These services will vary according to what the provider can offer. The best course of action is to meet with a hospice representative who can share all the information you need to make the right decision, answer any questions and walk you through all their services and care options.

In addition, the hospice representative should be able to answer questions about health insurance and Medicare options, do a full assessment of you or your loved one’s condition and, if needed, assist with completing necessary forms for admission.

Developing a customized care plan. 

Every patient’s needs are different, so it’s important that your hospice representative meet with you to discuss patient expectations of the hospice program, their services, special requirements and other details. Frequency of visits by medical staff and support staff (including chaplains), services unique to the patient’s needs, medication management and access to specific medical equipment and supplies can also be worked into the care plan.

This information will go into the development of a unique care plan that outlines the hospice experience. Remember, the hospice team is the best source of alleviating anxiety about this process, and can organize meetings, answer questions or conduct an onsite tour of the facilities to help you or your loved one prepare.

The Shores, a part of the well-known United Methodist Communities non-profit organization in New Jersey, offers compassionate, professional Hospice care in Cape May County called Bridges. This program focuses on creating a nurturing and comforting environment for patients and their loved ones through customized care programs and compassionate support. To find out more about our hospice dedicated neighborhood in South Jersey, please contact us today at https://umcommunities.org/theshores/ and plan your visit.