While the primary goal of medicine is to heal, this may not always be possible. However, for patients with terminal illnesses, hospice care allows them to live out the rest of their days in comfort. If you need to arrange such care for a loved one, here’s what your family can expect. 

What Does Hospice Care Include?

Every hospice care plan is unique because each one is tailored to the patient in question. Regardless of the circumstances, though, the primary goal is to minimize the patient’s symptoms and improve their quality of life.

In addition to symptom management and comfort care, patients might receive help with bathing, grooming, and other essential daily tasks. Spiritual guidance and family counseling are also optional components of end-of-life care. Additionally, if the care is being provided at the patient's home, the agency may assist with domestic tasks like cooking and cleaning. 

Where Does Hospice Care Take Place?

Generally speaking, insurance plans—including Medicare—will cover hospice care once two physicians have certified the patient’s life expectancy is less than six months. Whether this care will take place at a medical facility or in the patient's home will depend on a variety of factors. 

If the patient doesn't have any nearby family members, residing at a long-term care facility may be best. If, on the other hand, they would prefer to spend as much time with loved ones as possible, staying at home with a loved one is also an option. As long as you turn to a reputable agency with flexible care plans, your family should be able to implement an arrangement that meets your needs. 

For comprehensive hospice care from compassionate and skilled providers, turn to Advantage Home Health & Hospice. Based in Poteau, OK, this locally owned agency offers hospice services both in patients’ homes and at long-term care facilities. To learn more about their services, visit their website, and call (918) 647-0653 to discuss your family’s needs.