Hospice Care

Having a relative who is entering in-home hospice care can be a little overwhelming, and it can be helpful if you know what to expect. Here is a look at a few things you can anticipate when your relative enters hospice care.

1. In-home hospice care will happen around your preferred schedule.

At a time when a terminal illness can be making everything a bit unpredictable and emotional, it is understandable that you may not want care agents coming and going at will. Symphony hospice will work around your preferred schedule to ensure the patient's needs are met.

2. Expect to be given care instructions as a family member.

As a family member of someone who is under hospice care, you can rely on the care professionals to guide you on how to provide the best care for the patient when no one is available to help. For example, you may be shown how and when the patient can take more medications to make them more comfortable or instructed on how to use certain pieces of medical equipment to help the patient as needed.

3. You will be able to contact a hospice care agent around the clock.

When someone has a terminal illness, it is quite common for their needs to change without a lot of prior warning. Hospice care agents understand this, so they usually make it possible for you to contact someone when you need assistance no matter what time of the day or night it may be.

4. Expect to get everything needed to care for the patient delivered.

From medications and medical equipment to routine care items, the in-home hospice care professionals will make an effort to get the patient everything they need to stay comfortable and manage their symptoms as their condition progresses. The goal is to make it as easy as possible for the patient and their loved ones to stay at home and enjoy their time together.