Hospice care can begin when a person chooses to no longer actively pursue treatment for a disease such as cancer. Private insurances and Medicare typically cover many of the costs of hospice, but they usually require a terminal diagnosis from a physician. The decision to stop treatment is a difficult one, but hospice can make it a bit easier on everyone involved. Hospice care can be overseen by your loved one’s regular doctor, aided by hospice nurses, therapists, and social workers. The focus of hospice care is on minimizing symptoms, while maintaining the greatest quality of life possible for your loved one. Hospice can help you manage medications, provide referrals to support groups, and assist your loved one with bathing and basic health care. Hospice can also arrange for any medical equipment your loved one needs, such as catheters, oxygen tanks, or hospital beds. Hospice volunteers can sit with your loved one or help run errands to give you a break. Hospice care often occurs in the patient’s own home, with a family member serving as primary caregiver. But seniors living in an assisted living community or nursing homes can also receive hospice.
