When is Someone Ready for Hospice Care?

When the time comes to enroll a  patient into hospice care, their family or loved ones will be tasked with the difficult challenge of making that decision. There are a number of signs that families should note when it comes to recognizing when their loved one is ready for hospice care. In some cases, hospice is recommended as an additional option on time of what is already being provided.

Recognizing Important Signs

Some of the most important signs that indicate whether someone is ready for hospice care includes:

• An increasing number of visits to the hospital or ER (emergency room)
• Increased difficulty with performing regular, daily tasks
• Weight loss as a result of insufficient nutrition or diet. Weight loss may also indicate a more terminal illness that requires medical help immediately.
• Challenges or increased physical difficulty with moving within the home
• A higher prevalence of pain or discomfort that requires more medicine
• Sudden changes in awareness of surroundings or stimuli

Taking the Next Step

While the challenge of making the decision to enroll a loved one in hospice care may be difficult, it is important to understand when the time is right. You can also schedule a consultation with a hospice provider to assess what your loved one needs and develop a plan that works well for everyone involved.

La Bella Vita Hospice Inc. services Westlake Village and the surrounding areas of Los Angeles, Pasadena, San Fernando Valley, Canoga Park, Burbank, Chatsworth, Encino, Glendale, Glenoaks, Granada HIlls, Hansen Hills, Hidden Hills, La Crescenta, Lake Balboa, Lake View Terrace, and more. For additional information, contact our team today.