Hospice care is a type of care that focuses on keeping a terminally ill individual as comfortable as possible, so they experience the best quality of life that they can. Many families decide this is the best choice for their loved one after stopping treatment. If you’re thinking about this solution, there are a few facts you should know to help you decide whether it’s the right choice for your loved one.

How Hospice Care Works

Hospice is not a place, it’s a type of care. Where your loved one receives that care will depend on their needs, your budget, and other circumstances. Many patients choose to receive it in their own home (where they are likely living with family) or in a nursing home. It can also be administered in another private facility or in a hospital.

Who Will Qualify

Hospice care is different from end-of-life care in that end-of-life care can be administered as soon as someone is diagnosed with an illness. Hospice care, on the other hand, is reserved for patients who have been diagnosed with a terminal illness. This means that two doctors must determine their illness will likely cause death within six months, and any treatment for the illness must be stopped. If the patient goes into remission, they may switch out of hospice care.

What to Expect

Hospice treatment stands out from other options in that it’s designed to make your loved one has comfortable and happy as possible. The change in goals–switched from the treatment of the illness to keeping them comfortable–gives them a better quality of life. For example, the pain medication administered is designed to help them live better and more happily, rather than sedating them.

The care is highly personalized and an emphasis is put on maintaining the patient’s dignity. It’s family-oriented care that helps everyone by giving exhausted family members a break and ensuring the patient gets experienced, dedicated care. The patient can still see their regular doctor, has complete control over care decisions, and can opt out at any time.

The Vineyards at Concord provides quality and compassionate hospice care in Frankfort, OH, and throughout the Chillicothe area. Their professional staff offers personalized care for all of their services, whether it’s 24-hour dementia care or assisted living for active seniors. Learn more about them on their website and call (740) 998-4777 to discuss your loved one’s needs.