When to Call Hospice: Understanding the Signs & Choosing Compassionate Care
Navigating the decision of when to call hospice for a loved one can be one of the most challenging choices families face. Recognizing and becoming aware of the signs that hospice care may be appropriate can guide families toward making informed decisions that prioritize comfort and quality of life. In this blog, we’ll explore some of the common signs that it may be time to call hospice and how Pathways Hospice Care Services can support you and your loved ones through each stage.
Sign #1: Declining Health Despite Medical Treatment
As health continues to decline, even with ongoing medical treatments, it may be an indicator when it is time for hospice care. This decline in health can manifest in various ways, such as increased fatigue, worsening symptoms, or a noticeable general decline in overall well-being.
Sign #2: Frequent Hospitalizations
Another sign you might notice to indicate when to call hospice for your family member is repeated hospital admissions in a short period of time. This can be a source of significant stress and disruption for both the patient and their family members. Each hospitalization often involves a series of medical procedures, tests, and changes in the environment, which can be physically and emotionally exhausting.
Sign #3: Increased Pain or Symptoms
Unmanageable pain or other symptoms can have a profound impact on an individual’s quality of life, affecting not only physical well-being but also emotional and psychological health. Signs like this can also be a clear sign of when to call hospice, but can also result in feelings of frustration, isolation, and despair for the patient, as they may struggle to engage in activities that once brought them joy or fulfillment.
Sign #4: Noticeable Health Decline
Significant weight loss and increased fatigue are often telltale signs that the body is undergoing significant changes and may be nearing the end of life’s journey. Other signs of decline in overall health include:
- Changes in appetite
- Problems swallowing
- Weight loss
- Fatigue
- Hearing loss (look for signs of lip reading and talking loudly)
- Complaints of muscle weakness
- Excessive sleeping or dehydration
Sign #5: Decreased Independence
Difficulty performing daily activities or needing more assistance with personal care tasks can be significant indicators of a decline in health and functional ability. As illness progresses, individuals may find it increasingly challenging to complete basic tasks such as dressing, bathing, or preparing meals independently. This loss of independence can be distressing and frustrating for the patient, as it may signify a loss of control and autonomy.
Pathways Hospice Services: Find Peace of Mind for You and Your Loved Ones
Knowing when to call hospice can be a challenging decision for families. By recognizing the signs you can make informed decisions that prioritize comfort, dignity, and quality of life. If you or a loved one is facing end-of-life decisions, don’t hesitate to reach out to Pathways to learn more about our in-home hospice care, assisted living, and long-term hospice care services. Contact us directly to speak with a member of our caring team.