When to consider hospice
Considering hospice care for a loved one with dementia usually comes into play when their health significantly declines, typically in the advanced stages of the disease. Here are some indicators that it might be time to consider hospice and discuss it with your healthcare provider:
Timing: Hospice care is generally considered when a person is believed to be in the last six months of life. In dementia, this can be difficult to determine, but a significant overall decline in health is a key indicator.
Behaviors and Health Changes:
Frequent infections, such as pneumonia or urinary tract infections.
Increased difficulty in eating or swallowing, leading to significant weight loss or recurrent choking.
Severe cognitive decline, where the person may no longer recognize family members or cannot communicate effectively.
Loss of mobility, leading to being bedridden or unable to perform daily activities without assistance.
A significant increase in symptoms like agitation, hallucinations, or distress.
When to Speak to Your Healthcare Provider about hospice:
If you notice a marked decline in your loved one’s physical or cognitive abilities.
When managing pain and discomfort becomes increasingly challenging.
If there are frequent hospitalizations or emergency room visits.
When the focus shifts from seeking curative treatments to providing comfort and quality of life.
It's important to have an open and honest conversation with your healthcare provider about the progression of your loved one's dementia and their overall health. They can guide you on the appropriateness of hospice care based on the specific circumstances. Hospice care is not about giving up hope but about changing the focus of care to comfort and quality of life for the remaining time.
