When a loved one is near the end of their life, hospice care becomes an option. It is for terminally ill individuals and designed to provide physical, social, spiritual, and psychological assistance as needed so such people can enjoy the highest quality of life possible. If you have a loved one with a terminal illness, review what benefits hospice services provide you and other family members here. 

What Are the Advantages of Hospice Care For Families? 

1. Respite Care

Taking care of a loved one with a terminal illness is often mentally and emotionally draining, especially for the main caregiver(s). It’s not uncommon for family members to “put their lives on hold” while caring for an ailing loved one, which can cause job and personal life complications. Since hospice services provide your loved one with everything they need to remain comfortable, you and your fellow family members get the breaks you need. Instead of scheduling your life around the loved one, you can focus on other tasks knowing your beloved family member is receiving the best care possible. 

2. Resource Access

Many hospice services provide a variety of resources for their patients’ family members, including grief counseling options such as individual and group therapy. These providers also connect families with social workers who assist with end-of-life wishes and spiritual coordinators who help with last rites or any other spiritual issues the loved one wants to address. Funeral planning assistance is yet another way the local hospice care service can help your family navigate this challenging time without extra stress. 

3. More Quality Time With the Loved One

By trusting a hospice service to provide the care and resources necessary for your loved one’s quality of life and eventual passing, you get to enjoy more time with this cherished individual. Play simple games, talk about favorite memories, share funny stories, and simply relish being together, even if words are not exchanged. You’ll remember these precious moments for the rest of your life and love that you got to experience them instead of dealing with related issues, such as locating a chaplain or finalizing funeral plans. And because your family member will possibly enjoy better health from outstanding hospice services, they might live longer than originally expected for even more quality time together. 

If this service is what your family needs, contact Deer Valley Hospice Care in St. Louis, MO. Offering end-of-life care for terminally ill individuals and resources for their families, this service provides in-home care so clients can enjoy the comfort of their residences. Call (314) 396-2211 today to make an appointment or visit the website for more information.