Coming to terms with the idea that someone you care about has a life-limiting illness can be quite difficult, and while a conversation about hospice care in Salt Lake City might feel out of line or unseemly, it’s too important to leave undone.
Everyone has their own end-of-life care preferences, and knowing what your loved one wants can ensure that their wishes are met. And given the many misconceptions and myths about hospice, they may not realize how much it helps. Hospice care is all about preventing suffering and making the most of every moment, and those who take advantage of hospice services enjoy a better quality of life during their remaining time.
Delaying the hospice conversation can result in services beginning just a few days before death, a scenario that happens all too often in the Salt Lake City area. However, a terminally ill individual can receive in-home hospice care for six months – and services can be provided for longer, if they continue to meet the eligibility criteria.
If you don’t want your loved one to miss out on months of support, having a talk about hospice care is a must. But when is the right time for the discussion? And how do you go about bringing up the topic? Below, the team at Suncrest Hospice shares tips that can help make the conversation less stressful.
When to Bring Up the Idea of Hospice Care
A number of life events can trigger a discussion around hospice care options and end-of-life preferences. Situations that call for a conversation include learning that a loved one has been:
- Diagnosed with a life-limiting illness
- Taking frequent trips to the emergency room
- Admitted to the hospital on multiple occasions
- Steadily declining in health over a long period of time
In addition, the time may be right to have a conversation if a physician suggests hospice care or if your loved one seems to be getting discouraged with their medical treatment. Keep in mind that the ideal opportunity may never arise – and there’s a chance your loved one is waiting for you to start the discussion. If you believe they could benefit from hospice services, don’t let too much time slip by before you have a talk.
How to Prepare for the Conversation
While the terminally ill individual is central to the conversation about hospice care, other people – besides yourself – may need to be involved. For instance, including a patient’s spouse, parents, children or siblings might be appropriate. And, it may be best to speak with or include a Salt Lake City hospice professional, as that way, everyone can understand the options and services provided.
On the other hand, you’ll want to be sensitive to your loved one’s wishes – and if you think they’d prefer to have a one-on-one conversation, that’s the approach to take.
In any case, carefully consider where and when to talk about hospice care. Choose a place that’s free of distractions, and find a time when the discussion won’t be cut short. At home, on a weekend or holiday can be a smart choice, as that may make it easier for other family members to join in if needed.
Hospice Conversation Starters to Consider
When the conditions for the hospice conversation are right, don’t rush in – an abrupt change of subject isn’t going to put your loved one at ease. Instead, look for cues, such as a mention of being sick of being at the hospital so often. When you see a way to open the discussion, set aside your discomfort and start the chat.
What should you say? One of these openers might help ensure you have a productive conversation about hospice care:
- Those hospitalizations and emergency room visits do take a lot out of you. Did you know there’s a way we can avoid spending all that time at the hospital?
- Wouldn’t it be better if we could manage your condition right here, at your own Salt Lake City home? That’s possible with hospice care
- Lately, I’ve noticed that you seem to be struggling to keep your pain under control. Hospice could help – care comes from experts in pain management.
- Are you still interested in pursuing every possible treatment? Could you imagine stopping curative efforts to enjoy a better quality of life?
What if Your Loved One Is Opposed to Hospice Care?
When you bring up the subject of hospice care, your loved one might have a negative reaction – and that’s ok. Listen calmly, without judgement, and ask about their concerns. As you respond, don’t try to be persuasive. Instead, simply offer reassuring information to ensure they have a full understanding of what hospice involves.
For guidance, you can always turn to Suncrest Care Team. We’d be happy to provide you with the facts on hospice care, and if you like, one of our friendly and knowledgeable hospice professionals can come out to your loved one’s home to assist with the conversation regarding end-of-life care.
To learn more about the services we provide to terminally ill individuals in Salt Lake City, Utah, or to meet with a hospice care professional, contact us today.
