This Word HOSPICE Really Scares me

Anonymous

I hope this doesn't turn out to be offensive because if it is just don't read this thread but I really feel like I needed to find out about this because I picture myself ending up in Hospice and not really knowing all that it entails.

I've heard this word many times associated with cancer and I know it has to do with the end of life.  But I don't know anything about it, other than it scares the sh*t out of me, I guess because I really don't know what it entails because I've never known anyone in Hospice. What exactly is Hospice?

Barb

konakat

Hi Barb -- Hospice focuses on pain control and physical comfort once you've stopped chemo and are in the last stage of your life.  It provides support for psychological and spiritual issues, if you want/need this support.  It also helps out the family -- by taking care of you and providing them emotional support.  The purpose of hospice is to allow you to die with as much comfort, grace and dignity as possible.

More info:  http://www.cancer.org/docroot/eto/content/eto_2_5x_what_is_hospice_care.asp

clariceak

I'm sure there are many other people who could explain it better, but from what I understand, hospice is either an actual place or service which makes the patient's comfort the primary goal.  I'm sure that if I was in the position of declining further treatment I would welcome services that would help me be more comfortable and hopefully pain free in my own home and allow my family to be with me, rather than in hustle and bustle of a hospital.

Last week I felt like you.  I was focused on the various implications of recurrance which just sucked.  Hugs to you.

PauldingMom

Having just used Hospice with my FL they are a great service. They will come to you or you can go to one of their facilities depending on the level of care and the ability of those around who can care for the person whom is ill. They also provide lots of after death support to the family. Counseling groups, anniversary help, and are available for any help you may need emotionally. 

chainsawz

Hi Barb - I hope you don't mind me posting in your forum :>

I think everyone explained this really well, but to me hospice is also a place that will take care of me so my family will not be overburdened and can just enjoy being with me.  They will also tell them what to expect along the journey and support them.  I hope I am 30 years away from this decision.  I do know there is in-home hospice support where nurses come to your house to help control your pain, etc.  There is also full hospice....that's my choice.  I do not want to die at home.  I want my family to have every support available. 

I have a friend who just died 6 months ago (melanoma), and he went into a hospice facility.  It was very strange for me to go see him, but it helped me not be so afraid of the unknown.  The place was very comfortable and there was a kitchen\living\dining area for the family.  They had round the clock nurses to help with pain and bathing, etc.  They also held their hands and told them exactly what was happening and what to expect next.  I have to say my friend was not in pain thanks to the hospice people....he just slipped away a little each day until he was gone.  Here is a site called Myths About Hospice Care - Debunked!  which helped me understand more:

http://www.louisianamedicalnews.com/myths-about-hospice-care-debunked-cms-1430 

I hope you live a long and happy life and never have to face this decision!!  Hugs...lisa