How Home Care Works With Hospice for Better Care

When a loved one is nearing the end of life, comfort and quality care are important. Families need to know that the person they love will get everything required for a tranquil transition. Hospice care is indispensable during this period, and partnering hospice with home care services ensures that both the individual receiving care and members of the family have all of the bases covered. Combining both services allows families to simply focus on being together.

There is often some confusion as to what these services cover, and exactly how much they cost. Morning Glory Home Care’s experts in elder care in Edwardsville, IL and the surrounding areas have the essential information you need.

Hospice Care

Hospice care is available when a condition is no longer responding to curative treatment plans and life expectancy is half a year or less. Treatment turns to palliative measures to help keep the person comfortable and to ensure the highest possible quality of life. Medicare and most private insurance cover the cost of hospice care, which includes:

• Physician and nursing care
• Medical equipment and supplies
• Treatments for pain and symptom management
• Speech therapy, physical, and/or occupational therapy services
• Social services
• Nutrition guidance
• Spiritual/grief counseling for both the person receiving care and family members
• And other services as suggested by the hospice care team

In-Home Care

Non-medical home care services, like those offered by Morning Glory Home Care, enhance hospice care services by filling any gaps in care needs, such as:

• Friendly companionship
• Running errands
• Preparing meals
• Housekeeping and laundry
• Respite for family caregivers
• And so much more

It is vital for someone to be with the patient receiving hospice care 24/7, and to have one person designated as the main caregiver. This person is typically a member of the family or a friend who can keep an eye on symptoms and concerns as well as provide most of the physical care the individual requires. However, the main caregiver cannot (and should not try to) do it all on their own. This is where in-home care can help.

An in-home care provider is available for as much help as families need, any time of day. They can also relieve some of the burden the main caregiver and other members of the family are facing by taking care of the daily needs within the home that are necessary. This collaboration allows families to focus on spending quality time together, to get the rest they need, and to care for their own personal needs.

In contrast to hospice care, home care costs are paid for privately. There are a number of different options available, including:

• Out of pocket
• Long-term care insurance
• Veterans’ Aid & Attendance

Want to learn more about how home care works with hospice? Our home care experts are here to help! We can assist you with getting any benefits for which you might be qualified to cover home care services. Reach out to us at 618‑667‑8400 for a no-cost in-home consultation to learn more.