Understanding Hospice Care and the Role of In-Home Assistance

Individuals facing terminal illnesses often face a choice: continue with curative treatments that may lead to discomfort and hospital stays, or choose to prioritize comfort and quality of life, even if it means stopping treatments that are unlikely to succeed. This decision is deeply personal. Choosing hospice does not mean “giving up,” but rather, opting for a more person-centered philosophy of care delivered by a multidisciplinary team of professionals. Importantly, if circumstances change or if a patient decides to pursue aggressive treatments, they have the flexibility to leave hospice care and seek other medical interventions.

“Hospice recognizes that dying is part of living,” says Paul Blom, owner of Right at Home Twin Cities. “Oftentimes, our healthcare system prioritizes life at all costs, but hospice allows patients to live their final days with comfort and dignity.”

The concept of hospice was introduced to the United States in 1963 by Dame Cicely Saunders. She envisioned a new way to care for the dying. Hospice care focuses on comfort and quality of life, rather than cure. It’s typically recommended when a patient is expected to live six months or less, based on their physician’s judgment. The care is not confined to a hospital setting; it can be administered at home, in a hospice center, in a hospital, or in a skilled nursing facility.

Because it’s a relatively new way of thinking about dying, many people are unaware that hospice is an option or who qualifies for it. But the death with dignity movement is spreading, and hospice care is now covered by Medicare, Medicaid, the U.S. Department of Veterans Affairs and most private insurances.

“Hospice is a benefit like any other, and patients can be recertified for hospice care as needed,” Paul explains. “Many people thrive with this type of support as long as a physician certifies their eligibility.”

The core philosophy of hospice is to offer compassionate care and support the patient’s emotional and spiritual needs. Services often include pain management, symptom control, psychological support, and spiritual care. But hospice care is not just for the patients—it also helps family members navigate this emotionally complex journey and offers support with the physical and practical challenges of caring for a loved one at the end of life.

“Many people wait too long to seek hospice care, often due to misunderstandings about what hospice provides,” Paul says. “Hospice care isn’t the preferred choice for everyone facing a life-limited illness. But for many it can be a welcome and timely opportunity to make quality of life near the end of life the priority.” 

The benefits of hospice care

Hospice care provided in the home allows patients to remain in a comfortable, familiar environment while receiving professional medical care. And in-home caregivers have a role to play in this process, as well. Studies show that patients who are already receiving some form of in-home care are more likely to use hospice services.

Here are several things an in-home caregiver can do to assist in the hospice process.

• Assist with the patient’s personal hygiene, including bathing, dressing, and grooming.
• Carefully position and maneuver the patient in bed to ensure comfort and safety.
• Aid the patient in moving between the bed, chairs, and bathroom.
• Handle laundry, perform housekeeping tasks, and maintain the cleanliness and order of the patient’s bedding.
• Run essential errands, such as collecting prescriptions and grocery shopping.
• Prepare meals and drinks according to the guidelines set by the hospice care team.
• Offer companionship and a comforting presence.
• Provide relief for family members by staying with the patient, allowing them time to rest and recharge.
• Complete light housekeeping tasks so family members can be more present with their loved one.

How in-home care supports families

Choosing hospice care, particularly in-home care, can be a profound decision that benefits both the patient and their loved ones. It ensures that patients spend their final months in dignity and comfort, surrounded by their loved ones in a familiar environment. For families, the comprehensive support provided by hospice professionals is invaluable, helping them navigate one of life’s most challenging passages with grace and compassion. And in-home caregivers can play an important role in the overall hospice care team, providing assistance, companionship, and housekeeping for hospice patients and grieving families alike.

“In-home caregivers can monitor symptoms and report any changes to the hospice team, providing family members important time to rest and be present with their loved ones,” Paul notes.

The best time to learn about hospice care is before you need it. For anyone considering hospice care, it’s important to discuss with healthcare providers early to plan the best possible care strategy for your loved one.

“Many people default to using the hospice organization attached to their hospital,” Paul says.  “But there are many private hospices that may offer a more personalized approach, such as Grace Hospice and Our Lady of Peace Hospice, as well as national hospice organizations not affiliated with hospitals.”

He encourages people to get referrals from family and friends to find the right hospice care services tailored to their loved one’s preferences. The Minnesota Network of Hospice and Palliative Care can help you find the hospice service that’s right for you

Right at Home care experts work with families and trusted hospice care teams to promote the best possible quality of life for people with a life-limiting illness. Contact Right at Home Twin Cities and ask for a care consultation today.