When to call Hospice?

Cecil Jones

I read on this site where people said they had wished they had called hospice earlier than they did. My wife is starting into late stage 6. Her physical health seems very good. I asked her doctor for a Hospice referral /evaluation and they came out today. Everything went very well and they are going to start coming 3 days a week to bathe her and wash her hair. Any supplies needed for basically anything pertaining to this disease is cover by them through Medicare part A. For over 3 years my wife has seldom got out of my sight...getting a few hours a week is hard to imagine. I know they can't be here for all the poop changing and stuff but I feel like a weight has been lifted off my chest. I truly didn't think my wife would qualify...I'm glad she did. I hope if someone reading this is on the border line to call hospice or not, I suggest you call. You can always back out if it doesn't work for your situation. I'm sure it won't be perfect for us but I see a little help.

SSHarkey

I had both of my parents on hospice care. A true blessing! Last I understood, as long as there’s a chance of death within a 6 month period, they qualify. Then there are regular re-qualifications to do by the staff. But the only time they’d be kicked off is if they’ve improved to the point they’re no longer terminal. My mother had hospice services for 6 months. My father for 18 months. Absolutely heaven!