Watching a senior loved one struggle with a terminal illness can be heartbreaking. You want their final months to be comfortable, which is why it’s wise to turn to hospice care. These facilities create the highest quality of life for patients who have a limited time left to live. Below, you’ll find everything you need to ensure you seek care for your loved one.

When to Schedule Hospice Care for an Aging Family Member

1. Constant Pain

Terminal illnesses can leave a loved one in constant pain. Side effects from medication can also leave them fatigued, confused, or unable to eat. Hospice care alleviates these issues by helping a resident rest until their final days.

Medication often isn’t needed since the illness isn’t terminal, and they’ll have therapists and medical staff to help with pain and general health needs. It drastically reduces suffering and increases quality of life so patients can truly enjoy their final days, weeks, or months.

2. Rapid Decline in Health

Brain cancer, the later stages of dementia, and kidney failure, for example, can cause a rapid decline in health. If your loved one’s well-being drops quickly—especially under treatment attempts—hospice care may be best. You will help them avoid grueling side effects and other difficulties that come with a poorly managed decline in health.

3. Frequent Hospitalizations

Terminal illnesses can make it impossible for seniors to take care of themselves. If they have many hospital stays, trips to the emergency room, or reoccurring infections and other health issues, hospice care is advised.

Medical professionals will handle all their day-to-day needs while they comfortably rest. Your loved one can relax, enjoy time with visiting friends and family members, or participate in a favorite activity. It reduces significant stress and the pain of ongoing injuries.

Contact Central Illinois Care Services in Madison County, IL, if you’re interested in booking hospice care for a loved one. This agency connects seniors and their families with a variety of care solutions, including home health aides, respite care, and hospice services. Visit their website to learn more and call (618) 391-7138 to speak with a representative.