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Writer's pictureHospice of the Fisher Home

Top 10 Hospice Questions (and Answers)

Navigating end-of-life care can be daunting, but hospice care offers profound comfort and support during life’s most challenging moments. As families and individuals face difficult decisions about care, understanding what hospice entails is crucial. 


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As a hospice, we understand how many questions you must have about hospice care. That’s why we came up with a guide to some frequently asked questions regarding end-of-life care. If you have any other questions, leave them in the comments below or contact us. If you find this guide helpful and want to support a nonprofit hospice, please consider donating. 




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1. What is hospice care?


Hospice care is a specialized form of healthcare designed to provide compassionate support and comfort to individuals in the final stages of a terminal illness. Unlike traditional medical treatments aimed at curing disease, hospice focuses on enhancing quality of life through pain management, symptom control, and emotional support. It is typically provided by a team of healthcare professionals, including doctors, nurses, social workers, counselors, and volunteers who work together to address the physical, emotional and spiritual needs of both patients and their families. 


2. Who is eligible for hospice care?


Eligibility for hospice care is based on a prognosis of six months or less if the illness follows its normal course. This prognosis is determined by a physician and typically requires that the patient and their healthcare team agree that curative treatments are no longer beneficial or desired. Common illnesses that qualify for hospice care include advanced cancer, heart disease, chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD), dementia, and other terminal conditions. If you'd like to learn about your eligibility for Hospice of the Fisher Home, contact us!


3. How does hospice care differ from other types of medical care?


Unlike traditional medical care that focuses on curing illnesses, hospice care emphasizes comfort and quality of life for patients whose conditions are no longer responding to curative treatments. 


Hospice aims to manage pain and symptoms effectively while providing emotional and spiritual support to patients and their families. It involves a holistic approach that considers not only the physical aspects of care but also addresses the psychological, social, and spiritual needs of individuals facing end-of-life issues. This comprehensive care is provided by a team of professionals who specialize in end-of-life care and are dedicated to ensuring dignity, comfort, and support during this challenging time.


4. What services are included in hospice care?


Hospice care includes a range of services tailored to meet the physical, emotional, and spiritual needs of patients and their families. Core services typically provided by hospice teams include:


  • Pain and Symptom Management: Skilled management of pain and other symptoms to ensure comfort and quality of life.

  • Nursing Care: Regular visits by hospice nurses to assess and manage medical needs.

  • Medical Equipment and Supplies: Provision of necessary medical equipment such as hospital beds, wheelchairs, and medications related to the terminal illness.

  • Personal Care: Assistance with activities of daily living, including bathing, dressing, and grooming.

  • Emotional and Spiritual Support: Counseling and support services for patients and their families to address emotional, social, and spiritual concerns.

  • Bereavement Support: Ongoing support and counseling for family members and loved ones before and after the patient's death.


Some hospices, like ours, offer specialized care for veterans.


5. How can families and caregivers benefit from hospice services?


Families and caregivers play a crucial role in the hospice care journey and can benefit in several ways:


  • Education and Training: Hospice teams offer education and training to help caregivers confidently manage the patient's care at home or in a facility.

  • Respite Care: Periodic relief for caregivers to prevent burnout and ensure they can attend to their own needs.

  • Emotional Support: Counseling and guidance for caregivers to navigate the emotional challenges of caring for a loved one at the end of life.

  • 24/7 Access to Support: Availability of hospice staff for assistance and advice, providing peace of mind knowing help is just a phone call away.

  • Continued Care After Death: Bereavement support services to help caregivers cope with grief and adjust to life after their loved one passes away.


By supporting caregivers, hospice services not only enhance the quality of care provided to patients but also alleviate the emotional and physical burdens often associated with caregiving during such a challenging time.


6. Are there different types of hospice care settings? What are they?


Yes, hospice care can be provided in various settings to accommodate the preferences and needs of patients and their families:


  • Home Hospice: This is when majority of hospice care is provided in the patient's own home, allowing them to remain in familiar surroundings with the support of family and friends.

  • Inpatient Hospice Facilities: Some hospice programs have dedicated facilities or units within hospitals or nursing homes where patients can receive round-the-clock care for acute symptoms that cannot be managed at home.

  • Residential Hospice: Residential hospice facilities provide a homelike environment specifically designed for hospice care, offering comprehensive support services in a comfortable setting.

  • Long-Term Care Facilities: Hospice care can also be provided in skilled nursing facilities or assisted living facilities, where staff are trained to support end-of-life care needs.


The choice of setting depends on the patient's medical condition, personal preferences, and the level of support needed to ensure comfort and quality of life during the final stages of illness. At Hospice of the Fisher Home we offer a community program that provides care for free at home or in long-term care facilities.


7. What is community based hospice care?


This allows hospices to go into their community and provide care. The Hospice of the Fisher Home Community Program stands out for its commitment to providing 5-star quality care at no cost to terminally ill patients in Franklin, Hampshire, and Hampden Counties. Here are some unique aspects of our program:


  • Free Hospice Care: The program offers free hospice services to patients who qualify, regardless of their ability to pay, ensuring access to high-quality care for those in need.

  • Comprehensive Care: Patients receive holistic care that addresses their physical, emotional, and spiritual needs, supported by a multidisciplinary team of healthcare professionals.

  • Flexible Care Settings: Hospice services are available in patients' homes, skilled nursing facilities, or assisted living facilities, providing flexibility based on individual preferences and medical needs. Additionally, families can choose how involved they want to be in their loved ones' medical care. 

  • Community-Based Support: The program is deeply rooted in the community, with a focus on delivering compassionate care that respects the dignity and preferences of each patient and their family.


By offering exceptional care and support through its community-based approach any hospice can ensure that patients receive comfort and dignity during their end-of-life journey.


To continue providing care for people in our community please consider donating.


8. How does one choose the right hospice provider?


Choosing the right hospice provider is a crucial decision that involves several considerations. Begin by researching the reputation and accreditation of potential providers within your community. Look for accreditation by respected organizations like the National Hospice and Palliative Care Organization (NHPCO) as indicators of quality care. 


Assess the range of services offered by each hospice, including medical care, emotional support, spiritual guidance, and bereavement services, to ensure they align with your needs and preferences. Evaluate the expertise of the hospice staff, including doctors, nurses, social workers, counselors, and volunteers, who should have experience in end-of-life care. Communication is vital; choose a provider that engages patients and families in care planning and decision-making, ensuring you feel informed and involved throughout the process. 


Consider the hospice's philosophy of care and how it aligns with your beliefs regarding pain management, treatment options, and support for quality of life. Finally, assess the accessibility and location of the hospice to ensure they can provide timely support and assistance when needed. By carefully evaluating these factors and discussing your preferences with potential hospice providers, you can make an informed decision.


9. What are some common misconceptions about hospice care?


Despite its benefits, hospice care is often misunderstood. Common misconceptions include:


  • Hospice is only for the elderly: Hospice care is available to individuals of all ages facing a terminal illness, regardless of their age.

  • Hospice means giving up hope: Hospice focuses on enhancing quality of life and finding comfort in the final stages of illness, rather than on curing the disease.

  • Hospice accelerates death: Hospice care neither hastens nor postpones death; it aims to provide comfort and dignity during a natural process.

  • Hospice care is expensive: Many hospice programs, including the Hospice of the Fisher Home Community Program, offer free or affordable care, ensuring accessibility to all who need it.

  • Hospice is only for cancer patients: While cancer patients often benefit from hospice care, it is available for individuals with various terminal illnesses, such as heart disease, dementia, or ALS.


10. How can individuals plan ahead for hospice care?


Planning ahead for hospice care involves several important steps. First, educate yourself about the options available in your area and the services offered by different hospice providers. Discuss your preferences openly with family members and healthcare providers, including where you would prefer to receive care and what treatments align with your wishes. It's crucial to complete advance directives, such as a living will and healthcare power of attorney, which outline your medical preferences and appoint someone to make decisions on your behalf if you become unable to do so. 


Take the time to research local hospice providers, visiting facilities if possible, to ensure they align with your values and needs. Communication with loved ones is key; share your decisions and preferences with them to ensure they understand your wishes and can support you in achieving them. Finally, regularly review and update your advance directives and hospice plans as your health condition changes or as your preferences evolve.


Understanding hospice care is crucial for making informed decisions about end-of-life options. We’ve covered the essential questions to help provide you with clarity and guidance. If you have any other questions, feel free to leave them in the comments or contact us.


If you found this helpful and want to keep up with the Fisher Home you should follow us on Facebook and Instagram or join our mailing list. 


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