When a loved one is dealing with a terminal diagnosis, adopting a path that provides them with the best possible quality of life is of paramount importance. In Chicago, hospice care does exactly that — services are designed to offer physical, emotional, spiritual and practical support to the terminally ill. Families benefit as well, both from the professional assistance with palliative care and from the pastoral counseling and bereavement services.
Hospice care is for those with an estimated life expectancy of six months or less, and the timing of patient admittance is everything. Here at Suncrest Hospice of Chicago, we often hear people say they wish they would have accepted services earlier, particularly upon learning that some individuals live longer due to the care and support that comes with hospice.
So, when is the right time to consider hospice care for your loved one? The decision is unique to each patient and family, but certain signs may indicate the need for a hospice evaluation.
Physical Signs It May Be Time for Hospice Care
If your loved one seems to be declining in health and no cure for their terminal illness exists – or the burden of potentially curative treatments outweighs any benefit – it may be time to look into hospice care. But since there is so much variation in how different diseases progress, you may need to watch for common physical signals of the end of life. These include:
- Uncontrolled pain, persistent nausea or difficulty breathing
- Serious infections that are frequent or recurring
- Decreasing alertness or more time spent sleeping
- Loss of urinary and/or bowel control
- Regular hospitalizations or trips to the emergency room
- Less of an interest in eating and drinking
- Need of assistance to perform self-care tasks
Mental and Emotional Signs of the End of Life
Whatever your loved one’s diagnosis – whether it’s cancer, kidney failure, heart disease or any other terminal illness — the effects are sure to go beyond the physical level. Mental and emotional concerns are quite common as the end of life draws near, and some can be considered signs that it’s the right time for hospice care. The signals to watch for include:
- Making out-of-character statements
- Withdrawing from family and friends
- Showing little concern for their surroundings
- Giving away treasured personal belongings
- Focusing on funeral or memorial plans
- Lashing out in anger or suffering mood swings
- Apologizing for past events or saying goodbye
When to Call Hospice for a Dementia Patient
Dementia can complicate the timing for hospice care, but considering your loved one’s personality prior to the diagnosis may be helpful. That said, because patients with dementia often decline gradually, significant changes may not be all that apparent. As such, professionals recommend arranging for a hospice evaluation when a dementia patient exhibits these signs:
- Continually high levels of stress and anxiety
- Complete dependence on others for personal care tasks
- Eating problems, such as trouble swallowing
- Suffering with incontinence and frequent soiling episodes
- Difficulty in walking or unable to get around without assistance
- Unable to speak more than a few intelligible phrases
- Comorbidities, or additional health issues like sepsis or pneumonia
Having a Conversation About Hospice Care
Hospice care helps the terminally ill make the most of every remaining moment, so while there’s no right or wrong time to arrange for a hospice evaluation, you’ll no doubt want to ensure your loved one can take advantage of the available services for as long as possible.
With that in mind, because they have a terminal diagnosis, having a conversation about hospice care is a good idea. Planning ahead is beneficial, and doing so will allow your loved one to make an informed decision as to the timing of admittance.
When you’re ready to bring up the topic of hospice, choose a place where you can talk without distractions or interruptions. Consider if others should be present, and find a time that works for everyone involved. With the stage set, begin by asking your loved one for their opinion on hospice care – many people in Chicago are misinformed, so there’s every chance their thoughts won’t be positive. In that event, sharing a few facts may help them come around and consider hospice at the right time. For instance, you might need to explain the following:
- Hospice isn’t a place – it’s an approach to care, and most patients receive services in the comfort of their own homes.
- Hospice isn’t a death sentence – research shows that services actually help some patients live longer than expected.
- Hospice isn’t expensive – the costs are covered by Medicare, the Illinois Medicaid program and most private insurers.
- Hospice is always a choice – patients are free to leave at any point, and they can return if they meet the eligibility requirements.
With all of that made clear, your loved one may be more inclined to accept hospice care when the time is right. If they still seem to be opposed, ask if they’d be willing to have an in-person chat with a hospice professional in the near future. When they’re in the right frame of mind for a conversation, call the team at Suncrest Hospice of Chicago, as we’re happy to help however we can. To arrange for a hospice care consultation, contact us today.
