Common myths about hospice care

People mistakenly think hospice care is about dying... you call hospice when nothing more can be done. Nothing could be further from the truth. Hospice of the Western Reserve focuses on life by bringing comfort, dignity and peace to those facing serious illness. Hospice is about living life to its fullest.

There are common myths about hospice that keep people from getting the best care, when they need it most.

Myth: Hospice means giving up hope.

Hospice assists individuals as they transition from hope for cure to hope for living life fully. Hope includes being as comfortable as possible and setting realistic goals for the future.

Myth: Hospice is only for cancer patients.

Hospice is available to anyone with a serious illness, regardless of age or diagnosis. Care is provided to meet the needs of those with cardiopulmonary disease, dementia, renal disease, AIDS, Alzheimer's, and other terminal diseases.

Myth: Hospice is only for the last days of life.

Most people wait too long. Once it is determined that life expectancy is months rather than years, hospice is available. To fully benefit from hospice, patients and caregivers should seek care early.

Myth: I cannot receive curative treatments while receiving hospice.

Patients are free to seek many types of treatments while receiving palliative or hospice care.

Myth: Palliative care is different than hospice.

The type of care hospice provides is palliative.  Our Palliative Care Program assists individuals whose disease is serious but who are not ready for hospice care.

Myth: The only outcome is death.

Some patients improve with the supportive care of hospice staff to the point that hospice is no longer suitable. Our Navigator Program assists in their care and wellness plans. They can be re-admitted to hospice if necessary.

Myth: I can't keep my own doctor.

While receiving hospice care patients can keep their doctors.

Myth: Only a physician can refer to a hospice program.

Anyone can make a referral.

Myth: Hospice is a place.

Hospice is a philosophy of care. While Hospice of the Western Reserve does have hospice facilities, most hospice care is delivered wherever the patient lives (home, hospital, nursing home, assisted living or group home).

SOURCE Hospice of the Western Reserve