When your loved one is diagnosed with a terminal illness, the situation can feel frustrating, as if their quality of life is out of your control. However, with the help of hospice services, you can have peace of mind knowing your relative’s end-of-life-care is as comfortable as possible. Since it can be difficult to determine when to make this transition, the medical team at Mille Lacs Health System in Onamia, MN, highlights some of the most common signs your loved one is ready for hospice.

5 Signs Your Loved One Could Benefit From Hospice Care

1. Their Condition Has No Cure

For a person to qualify for hospice, signed documentation from a family health care provider or specialist must state they have less than six months to live. Additionally, there must be no cure available for them.  

2. Their Abilities Have Declined

When life is coming to an end, your loved one may experience difficulty with things they formerly did with ease. For example, some people may be so fatigued they are unable to move from one room to another without support. In other cases, they may experience mental decline and exhibit confusion.

3. They Have Lost Their Appetite

It’s common for individuals who are near death to lose interest in food and water. By missing these nutrients, however, their health will progressively worsen. If necessary, hospice can administer food intravenously to support your loved one’s basic nutrition needs.

4. They Are in Constant Pain

Chronic pain is a common experience that people go through near the end of life, which can make it difficult to remain at peace in those final days. Pain management medications to help ease the pain can be part of a hospice plan.

5. They Suffer From Persistent Infections

As body functions slow and terminal illnesses progress, a person will be less able to fight off infections. Many infections can impair breathing and organ functions, but, fortunately, hospice can provide services that ease the symptoms and provide relief.

If you believe your loved one may be ready for the next phase of their journey, the dedicated Hospice Department at Mille Lacs Health System provides compassionate end-of-life care. As a Medicare-certified program, this community-based, multiple award-winning program in the Mille Lacs region meets or exceeds all standards established by the program, allowing patients to cover care with their medical benefits. To request more information or apply for entry, contact this department in Onamia, MN, at (320) 532-2800.