Hospice is a specialized type of medical care for terminally ill patients who have a life-limiting illness. Hospice in Cleveland Texas helps patients by providing them with emotional, physical, and spiritual support during their end days. This specialized care also helps support the loved ones of the patient during their time of need. However, not every terminally ill patient and family needs or wants hospice care. The four signs below are common signs that a person may be ready for hospice care.
Disease Progression
Once a disease has advanced and there is no cure, it may be time to call in for hospice assistance. Usually when a disease has progressed and treatment has been stopped, the ill party may decide that he or she just wants to live out their last days comfortably. Thankfully, hospice in Cleveland Texas can help with symptom management and pain control. In turn, the patient will have decreased pain and can live out the rest of their days without being in agony.
Decrease in Basic Functioning
Consider hospice when an individual can no longer walk, eat, bathe, use the toilet, or get dressed. When there is a decrease in basic human functioning, assistance may be needed to perform those functions. A hospice worker will make sure their patient is properly fed, bathed, and well taken care of.
Family/Care-Givers
Hospice may be a good idea when family members can no longer take time off of work to care for their terminally ill loved one or when they are emotionally and physically drained from being the primary caregiver for a sick person. Not only does a hospice worker help the patient, but a hospice worker will also help the family cope with the sadness of the situation. In turn, the family can actually take some time out to focus on their own needs and their individual grieving.
Life Expectancy is Limited
When a physician has told his/her patient that their life expectancy is six months or less, it is time to consider hospice. Hospice professionals are trained in end-of-life care and should be celled in not long after a life expectancy diagnosis has been made. This will only positively impact the patients quality of life from that day onward.
To speak with hospice providers, simply visit their websites and click the “Contact us” subheading. You can then speak to them about any concerns and questions you may have.
