Top Myths About Hospice Services from a Virginia Trust and Will Attorney

Many myths could deter families from providing their loved ones with necessary care when it comes to hospice services. Hospice sounds scary and complex. However, it is a straightforward concept. It involves the services a person requires to remain comfortable while nearing the end of their life. It also focuses on supporting families and helping them cope with their inevitable loss.

Typically, although not always, hospice is for individuals with a terminal illness who are not expected to live much longer. The healthcare team can provide the necessary care to help the patient manage pain and address social, physical, psychological, and spiritual needs. Respite care and counseling are also available for family members struggling while dealing with their loved one’s deteriorating health.

Below are the top myths regarding hospice you should review to help you make an informed decision about your family member’s end-of-life care.

Hospice Is a Facility

There are hospice care centers around the country. You could place your loved one in a facility to spend the remainder of their life. However, the word hospice does not indicate a specific location or treatment center. A patient can receive end-of-life services anywhere they will be most comfortable, such as their home or a family member’s home.

Hospice Is Costly

Health insurance plans, such as Medicare and Medicaid, may pay for most bills related to hospice services. The only exception usually is the cost of room and board if the patient stays at a long-term care facility.

In most cases, you do not have to worry about paying for services out of pocket. Medical insurance should cover anything related to your loved one’s care, including:

• Pain management drugs
• Nursing services
• Medical equipment and supplies
• A home health aide
• Counseling for family
• Occupational therapy
• Social services
• Inpatient respite care

Hospice Is not Possible at Home

Numerous people choose to receive hospice care in their homes. It is much more comfortable than living in a hospice care center or another type of facility. Additionally, it is more convenient for family members to spend treasured time with their loved ones and assist with household tasks and other essential matters.

Hospice Is for Short-Term Patients Only

Although hospice services may begin when a doctor determines someone has six months or less to live, quite a few patients outlive their life expectancy. If a medical provider establishes a patient’s illness as terminal, hospice care can continue for as long as necessary.

Hospice Lowers Life Expectancy

Frequently people believe someone receiving hospice services experiences a diminished quality of life. They believe that they might give up on living longer because they require round-the-clock care. However, hospice care can relieve a person’s suffering while they are dying from a terminal illness.

Instead of focusing on the pain they are experiencing, the patient can redirect their energy to improving their quality of life. They can begin to live comfortably and peacefully when they know they can no longer pursue treatment for their disease and enjoy their time with their loved ones.

Contact Us

You may want to contact a Virginia estate planning and elder law attorney immediately if you are considering hospice services for your loved one. A skilled and knowledgeable lawyer can review your family member’s needs and determine whether hospice care is right for them. You should not have to make this difficult decision without guidance and support from an experienced legal team. We are here to offer assistance; contact us at (757) 645-3176 or (866) 603-5976 to schedule an appointment.