Hospice

Babz0226

How do you know when to call Hospice for an evaluation??? He is Stage 6-7

terei

It does not hurt to call them. Typically, the family is the last to see the necessity IME. Actually, when my mom’s companion suggested it to me, I was quite shocked, but she was correct + we were helped by hospice for about 6 months before she died. just call

Babz0226

I live in Mass does that matter from state to state.I keep hearing they have changed and only will come within 6 months of dying, so confusing. My DH will be seeing his PCP next week maybe best to discuss with him too???? Thank you I take all advise from here very serious.

SusanB-dil

Hi Babz - terei is correct. For a PWD, it is a different set of regulations in order to get help. They don't need to be in the 6-month range or so. We have not utilized hospice as yet, but you can see other posts where they have been such a help! As terei said - doesn't hurt to call - get the evaluation. They may say no. But if it turns out they can help, I know it would be a blessing.

Babz0226

Thank you all for the help. I will call.

jfkoc

Please interview more than one company and if you go ahead with Hospice, please utilize all they offer.

Babz0226

Thanks, so helpful.

jfkoc

forbarbara

Agreed - call now even if he isn’t accepted right away. His PCP should be in the loop so definitely discuss it, but don’t wait to call hospice until you see him/her. If you’re thinking about hospice then you need them now. And like jfkoc said, they can offer so much. Good luck.

RoseGwen

I've heard that people tend to ask too late rather than too early. If you think it might be time, it's good to go ahead and call. Hospice can offer some really helpful services and supports. You don't have to be like in the active process of dying to use or to benefit from hospice.

Waldorf

I requested that her PCP order a hospital bed as she was having trouble getting in and out as well as other issues. The PCP told me to enter her into at home hospice care and tell them to call her if they had a problem. She entered HC and passed exactly 4 weeks later. That was on August 2, 2023. I did not think she would be gone so soon and was bedridden for only 3 days.

Babz0226

Sorry for your loss. I feel much better with all these responses this can be tricky if DH is not ready, I want to keep him home with me if I can. DH is also seeing his Neurologist in 4 weeks so it will be interesting to see what the PCP and his take is on Hospice evaluation at this point in time. I have been dealing with this since 2018 grateful it has been a slow progress only the past 2 years have been getting more difficult. I really like the at home hospice care .Thank you. I have a place to put a bed that would work out fine if a go.