Is Hospice Right For You?

When should I contact hospice?

Please choose from the following statements as they apply to you and your loved one to see if hospice care may be appropriate:

• I have started feeling more tired and weak.
• I experience shortness of breath, even when resting.
• I spend most of the day in bed or in a chair.
• I have noticed an increased weight loss in the past six months.
• I make frequent phone calls to my physician.
• I take medications to lessen physical pain.
• I have fallen several times in the past six months.
• I have made frequent trips to the emergency room in the past six months.
• I need help from others with important daily activities (bathing, dressing, eating, cooking, walking, getting out of bed).
• My doctor has told me my life expectancy is limited.

If you have selected four or more of the above items, you may want to begin your research into hospice care by seeking advice from your primary care physician.

Who can receive hospice care?

A patient who:

• Has a terminal illness and is not undergoing active curative treatment. Conditions may include: heart disease, kidney disease, liver disease, lung disease, stroke, AIDS, Alzheimer's disease, Parkinson's diseases, Lou Gehrig's disease (ALS), failure of multiple organ systems, failure to thrive.
• Wants to remain in their place of residence.
• Has a capable caregiver such as a family member who will stay in the home.

Hospice care is provided without regard to sex, race, creed, national origin, age or handicap.