When caring for an elderly or terminally ill patient, there may come a time when your family has to make the decision to enter your loved one into hospice care. Hospice care provides patients with pain and symptom management options, but moves away from methods aimed at curing disease. Transitioning to this type of care can be a difficult choice for many patients and their families, and there is often a lot of confusion regarding this decision. The Vineyards at Concord is a nursing home and assisted living facility that has served Frankfort, OH for over 30 years. Below, their team answers some frequently asked questions about hospice care.

5 Frequently Asked Questions About Hospice Care

1. Is Hospice Care End of Life Care?

Hospice care and end of life care are very similar. In both cases, patients enter this form of care after their condition has become very advanced, or they are no longer responding to treatment. Hospice care does not try to advance or deter death, but tries to make patients comfortable with death as a natural part of life.

2. Can Patients Receive End of Life Care at Home?

Depending on your hospital or nursing home, you may have options regarding where you receive hospice care. If you feel more comfortable at home, you will be able to spend your time there; however, many assisted living facilities have areas dedicated to hospice care.

3. Who Will Be With Me in Hospice Care?

In addition to visiting family members, you will have a team dedicated to your care. This team will include a hospice volunteer, home health aide, social worker, registered nurse, and chaplain. Members of your team will visit to meet your needs as they arise.

4. How Is Hospice Care Paid For?

Hospice care can be paid for by Medicare or by your private insurance plan. If you do not have Medicare, call your healthcare provider to ensure that they will cover your time in hospice.

5. Is Care Available 24/7?

Yes. Although you may not have a care team member with you at all times, the facility’s nursing staff will be minutes away in the event of an emergency.

If you have more questions about hospice care services, call (740) 998-4777 to speak with a staff member from The Vineyards at Concord. To learn more about other senior care services at The Vineyards at Concord, visit their website today.