How Do I Know If My Loved One Qualifies for Hospice?

 For some years, society has placed a stigma on the word "Hospice". Some believe Hospice is a place you go to die. Others think that "Hospice" starts in the last few days of life. Some people think Hospice care is too expensive. And, yes, there are a few who thought Hospice had a magic pill that will end life for their loved one.

Let's address each of these beliefs individually so that YOU will have a clear and correct knowledge of Hospice.

1. Hospice is a philosophy of care for end-of-life.  The patient is at the center of this care.  Their wishes are of the utmost importance.  The Hospice team of a nurse, aides, chaplain and social worker, with the patient and their family, make a plan of care to meet the needs of the patient and keep them as comfortable as possible during this time.  If the patient requests no medications, the Freedom Home Hospice team is able to alleviate pain with our Namaste Care program using touch, taste, smell, sight and sound.  It is a unique program that very few agencies utilize but we have found that it can truly make a difference for the patient and their family.

2. Hospice care can start when a Doctor has stated that given the admitting diagnosis and its natural progression, there is approximately 6 months left in life for the individual.  Now, nobody can pinpoint the day and time someone will pass away from this life, and I have seen plenty of patients live well pass two years and still qualify to receive Hospice benefits. The Doctor is only giving an estimation and that is the main qualification to qualify for the care.
   Think about being able to have that extra help with your loved one and their personal cares, medications and pain control.  I like to think that the longer a team is able to serve a client, the more comfortable the client will be with those caregivers at the end-of-life.
   Yes, many times we begin care in the last few days but the Hospice Benefit through Medicare or Private insurances is intended to provide that care in the last six months of life.

3. Hospices care is paid for, 100% through the Medicare Benefit or through private insurance.  With the Medicare Benefit, this is something that those who have paid into Social Security have paid for throughout their lifetime of employment.  It is there for every individual, no matter your age.  For those younger terminally ill patients who perhaps have never reached an employment age, Hospice can be paid for through private insurance.  Either way, please call us to let us help you understand what benefits are available at 801-225-3377.

4. I have had a few people ask me about the "Magic Pill" that Hospice has to help their mom or dad on their way out of their life. I can assure you, there is no magic pill! Being married to a Police Officer, I am pretty certain that administering anything that would end someone's life is illegal and will be prosecuted to the fullest extent of the law.  With that said, the Hospice Team's goal is to keep your loved one comfortable and in as little pain as possible.  Think of it like this.....Our team gets to become a valuable part of someone's life, at the end of their life.  They get to make their life as comfortable and pain free as possible.  They will be an advocate for the patient and their loved ones, helping them all make and understand decisions during this most precious time.  The team truly loves their work and realize that the one they are caring for will pass away.  This will end their job, and their paycheck, for their care. Why would any Hospice team want to see that end?

In conclusion, Hospice is all about living every minute of your life to the fullest.  Our team is highly trained and specialize in caring for terminally ill patients.  It is a bittersweet situation to be in, but we choose to be there.  We choose because of our love of and for people.

Diary of a Diabetic's Wife: Diabetes and Depression

This is  one of several entries by Chris Pyne.  Click on the Diabetic's Wife tab to read all of her posts. Please visit her support group at Diabetes Support Group for Spouses for ongoing dialogue and support.
 

Depression in diabetics is very common. Who wouldn't be depressed when you have to give yourself multiple shots a day, having to check your blood sugar over and over, having to deal with the highs and lows of your blood sugars, and counting carbs every time you put something in your mouth?  People don't realize the amount of time and effort that goes into this disease unless you're either a diabetic, or someone who is in close contact with a diabetic. Like I've said before, diabetes controls your life.

Throughout our married life Roger has experienced many bouts of depression. Many tears have been shed by him and by me. (Depression in me is another diabetic story). The daily stress of managing your diabetes, the resentment and asking yourself , “why did this happen to me?”, and feeling set apart from your friends and family are just precursors for depression.

If you face diabetes, complications such as nerve damage, eye problems, kidney problems, or have trouble keeping your blood sugars in normal range and feeling like you're losing control brings on the frustration of the disease and depression.
Just like denial, depression can get you into a vicious cycle. It gives you the sense of not wanting to take care of yourself. You have times when you just don't care anymore. But then realize how important it is to stay on top of it because of all the repercussions.

Not all people with diabetes have depression but a large percentage do. Depression is nothing to be ashamed of. I'd certainly be depressed if I had the disease. I look at Roger and see everything he is doing to help himself. He takes his medication, exercises 5 days a week and I do my part by providing him good, healthy meals. He will always be my hero.