Issue 48.13
When end of life decisions must be made, there are two ways to react: submit without hope or live life to its fullest. Many believe that hospice is only for when there is no hope. This is a common misconception. What’s special about hospice is its capacity to help families see how much can be shared in the final months of life. It’s no wonder that many family members look back upon their hospice experience with gratitude and the knowledge that everything possible was done to help their loved one live and die with peace and dignity. Here are a few more common hospice myths.
Myth #1: Hospice is a place. While hospice facilities do exist, hospice care takes place wherever the need exists – usually in the patient’s home. About 80 percent of hospice care takes place in the patient’s private residence.
Myth # 2: Hospice is only for people with cancer. More than one-half of hospice patients nation-wide have diagnoses other than cancer. Increasingly, hospices are also serving families coping with chronic diseases, like Alzheimer’s and pulmonary, cardiovascular and neuromuscular diseases.
Myth #3: Hospice can only help when family members are available to provide care. Recognizing that some people may live alone, or with family members unable to provide care, many hospices coordinate community resources to make home hospice care possible. Also, hospice staff may help to find an alternative location where the patient can safely receive care.
Myth #4: Hospice is only for people who can accept death. While those affected by illness may struggle to come to terms with death, hospice gently helps them find their way at their own speed. Hospices welcome inquiries from families who are unsure about their needs and preferences. Educators are readily available to discuss all options and to facilitate family decisions.
Myth # 5: Hospice care is expensive. Most people who use hospice are over 65 and are entitled to the Medicare Hospice benefit. This benefit covers virtually all hospice services including medications, supplies and equipment. This means that there are few financial burdens incurred by the family, in sharp contrast to the huge financial expenses at the end of life which may be incurred when hospice is not used.
For more information about hospice and whether or not it could benefit you or your loved one call Zion’s Way Home Health & Hospice today at 435-688-0648.