When your loved one’s physician recommends transitioning them to hospice care, it can be emotionally overwhelming. You may also be uncertain about what to expect during this experience. With both medical hospice care providers and non-medical end of life home care services, your family member will be fully supported and made as comfortable as possible during their time of need. Learn about what to expect from the process below.

A Guide to End of Life Home Care Services

How Does Hospice Work?

Hospice is a form of home care services which are provided wherever the patient resides. Often, a hospice team is made up of many individuals, including a physician, specially trained nurses, a hospice medical director, and in-home caregivers. If desired, religious figures such as chaplains and spiritual advisers may also visit with your loved one. Together, these individuals oversee the physical, emotional, and spiritual needs of the patient and their family.

How Does the Medical Team Help?

The medical team fulfills your loved one’s physical needs, such as administering medication for symptom control or pain relief. Their goal is to help the person feel as comfortable as possible. They may also provide speech and physical therapy, advice on eating, and assistance with medical equipment and supplies.

How Does a Non-Medical Home Care Service Help?

In addition to medical support, your loved one can also receive non-medical support for tasks such as dressing, bathing, and daily hygiene. These care providers can also provide a comforting presence to minimize loneliness and anxiety. Family respite support is a solution for ensuring your loved one receives these services when you or another family member can’t be there with them.

If you have a loved one who is transitioning to hospice, allow the compassionate in-home caregivers from Visiting Angels in Lexington, KY to be there for your family. Offering supplemental home care services while your loved one is receiving hospice care from a medical team, Visiting Angels ensures you get the respite you need while your loved one has access to quality care whenever it is needed. Learn more about their end of life care by visiting their website or by calling (859) 223-0398.