What Is Home Hospice Care?
Many people are unfamiliar with the term 'hospice care.' Hospice care is a type of care that focuses on comfort and quality of life for patients who are terminally ill. Hospice care can be provided in various settings, including hospitals, nursing homes, and, most commonly, patients' homes. Home hospice care is a growing trend as more and more people are choosing to receive end-of-life care in the comfort of their own homes.
What Is the Difference Between Palliative Care and Hospice Care?
Palliative and hospice care are often confused, as they both focus on providing comfort, pain relief, and support to patients facing serious illnesses. However, there are some key differences between the two types of care. While palliative care focuses on controlling symptoms or improving the quality of life for patients with chronic illnesses, hospice care is typically only provided to patients who are nearing the end of their lives. Additionally, palliative care may be provided at any stage during a patient's illness, while hospice care is generally limited to the last few months of life.
What Does Hospice Care Entail?
Hospice care is typically provided by a team of professionals who work together to coordinate care. This team may include nurses, doctors, social workers, chaplains, and volunteers. The focus of this care is on managing symptoms and providing comfort rather than on treating the underlying disease. This could include:
- Pain management and symptom relief, including medications to help with pain, nausea, or difficulty breathing
- Regular check-ins with the patient to assess their condition and address any concerns or needs
- Support for the patient's family, including grief counseling and help with managing tasks such as cooking, cleaning, or running errands
- Assistance with making end-of-life decisions and advance care planning, including DNR or do not resuscitate orders
What Are the Benefits of Home Hospice Care?
There are many benefits to receiving home hospice care. Patients are able to remain in their own homes, surrounded by familiar faces and memories, which can be a great source of comfort for patients during difficult times. Additionally, home hospice care is often less expensive than other types of hospice care, such as in-patient care provided in a hospital or nursing home.
If you or a loved one has been diagnosed with a terminal illness, you may be considering your end-of-life care options. Home hospice care allows patients to receive care in the comfort of their own homes. If you're considering home hospice care, be sure to ask your doctor about all of your options so that you can make the best decision for you and your family.
Contact a service provider to learn more about home hospice care.
