Hospice affirms life; it neither hastens nor postpones death, helping individuals and their families get the most out of time they have left. Many in hospice care continue to enjoy social activities and are encouraged to remain as active and engaged as their physical condition allows.
“Hospice is a scary word for a lot of people. Whenever I hear that word, I think of death. But hospice is so much more. I made the decision to go to hospice for two reasons: I was tired of medical appointments and treatments; and it was time to give my caregivers a break. It was the best decision. Everyone on the hospice team is wonderful. Our home feels more peaceful. Our daily routines feel more normal. Someone else is taking care of things.
To celebrate our wedding anniversary, a member of our Tabitha Hospice Team even asked a local harpist to give a private performance in the comfort of our living room.
It was beautiful. We had never experienced anything like it.
When we hear someone is being supported by hospice, we think it’s just a matter of time. That’s true. It is just a matter of time, but I also think that time matters.
I have always believed in the quality of life. I want the time that I have left to be full of positive energy. Maybe the next time I hear the word hospice, I’ll think about harps and beautiful music.”
Diane Podany
Harpist Heidi N. Beran performs for Diane and Cory Podany’s wedding anniversary.
Though it may seem difficult to know when it’s the right time for hospice care, there are signs that may indicate compassionate hospice services should be considered:
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Increased assistance needed with activities of daily living, including walking, dressing and bathing
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Reduced desire to eat, leading to weight loss
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Multiple hospitalizations or ER visits
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Recurring infections
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Functional decline, including inability to speak or communicate clearly
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Increased pain or difficulty breathing
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Progression of disease, including poor response to treatment
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Decision to focus on quality of life instead of aggressive treatments
Arranging for Hospice Care
Generally speaking, Medicare, Medicaid, Veterans’ Administration (VA) benefits or your insurance will cover the costs associated with hospice care. Hospice has been included as a Medicare benefit since 1983, and Tabitha Hospice services are covered 100% under the Medicare hospice benefits—this means there are no out-of-pocket costs for qualified individuals. In addition, Medicare hospice benefits cover the cost of associated medications, medical equipment and a variety of nursing and support services.