One common misconception about hospice care is that it’s reserved for the final days. Some may hesitate because they believe choosing hospice means giving up. In reality, the sooner hospice begins, the more it can help by providing compassionate comfort care and around-the-clock support.

While a six-month life expectancy is often used to determine hospice eligibility for people with a life-limiting illness, this is just a guideline. Care is based on evolving individual needs, and many hospice patients receive care for more than six months.

Because of this, starting hospice earlier allows more time to prioritize comfort and enhance your loved one’s overall well-being. In this blog, we’re covering three benefits of starting hospice early. 

Enhanced quality of life 

One of the biggest benefits of starting hospice early is improved quality of life. When the focus shifts from curative to comfort, your loved one can feel more at ease, help take control of their care, and ensure their wishes are being honored. 

With support from their hospice care team, they can create a customized care plan that considers your loved one’s ongoing needs. Having a care plan that reflects their wishes ensures they’re receiving the care they want and deserve. 

The care plan can outline how their team will handle pain and other symptoms. Managing pain and symptoms with medication can improve their overall comfort and help them feel more like themselves.  

Another way hospice can enhance your loved one’s quality of life is through different therapy programs such as aromatherapy, pet therapy, and music therapy. Participating in these therapies supports your loved one’s emotional well-being by lifting their mood and promoting relaxation. 

By focusing on compassionate care that enhances quality of life, your loved one can spend more time feeling comfortable, supported, and at peace. 

More meaningful time together 

Since hospice emphasizes the importance of physical comfort, it allows your loved one to spend meaningful moments with their family and friends. With fewer medical appointments and hospital visits, they’re able to spend more time focused on doing things they love. 

If your loved one is able, they can spend time doing activities they enjoy and finding ways to do things on their own terms. Even simple activities like engaging in conversation, listening to music, or sharing a meal can make a meaningful impact. 

Sharing these moments with your loved one in a familiar home environment can bring them peace and comfort during this difficult time. When starting hospice sooner, your loved one can have the time to make more memories and enjoy the activities they love. 

Ongoing support for families and caregivers 

Starting hospice earlier also means families and caregivers can receive support sooner. Primary caregivers assume many new responsibilities that may take a toll on their physical, mental, and spiritual health. Your loved one’s hospice team can provide ongoing resources that may support and guide you through your caregiving journey. 

For example, you can work with a medical social worker or counselor who can help you work through the complex emotions you may feel while your loved one is in hospice. You may be introduced to local bereavement groups that may also bring you more comfort during this time. 

You may also be connected with volunteers who can provide additional support. Volunteers can offer companionship by engaging in activities your loved one enjoys, or they can assist you with simple household tasks. They’re available to support you and your loved one during this difficult time. 

Every family’s needs are different, and your hospice team is there to help you navigate this journey and support you as much as possible. By starting hospice early on, you and your loved one can begin receiving the guidance and support needed, so you feel less alone during this time.

Northern Illinois Hospice is here to provide compassionate end-of-life care

At Northern Illinois Hospice, we understand that every hospice journey is unique, which is why each care plan is tailored to the person’s goals and wishes. We take that information and create a team of individuals that can provide compassionate end-of-life care for your loved one. 

As the first hospice provider in the region, Northern Illinois Hospice has been helping people transition to hospice care for more than 45 years. Our care team provides compassionate end-of-life care to individuals with life-limiting illnesses.

We honor patients and their wishes by providing specialized care that treats the person, not the disease. We offer a wide range of palliative and hospice care to improve your loved one’s quality of life in their final months.

Our experienced team of healthcare professionals, social workers, and volunteers is here to ensure your loved one’s comfort and support.

Get even more support with The Reading Room

Because hospice care offers so many services and benefits to patients, families, and providers, it can sometimes feel overwhelming to navigate. That’s why we created The Reading Room.

The Reading Room is a special place where people can learn and grow in their understanding of hospice and palliative care, anytime and anywhere. It’s like having a whole library in the palm of your hand or with a click of your mouse. With dozens of articles and helpful how-to videos in both English and Spanish, The Reading Room can serve as a helpful guide. 

To learn more about our palliative or hospice services or how we can help you navigate end-of-life care for your loved ones, call us today at (815) 398-0500.