How To Have The Talk – About Hospice Care

We all tend to steer clear of conversations about those things that scare us the most – like saying goodbye to those we love.

Especially in our death-denying culture, often families wait to talk about plans for end-of-life care, or specialty care services like hospice.

Megan Enfield, CSW, Avera@Home Hospice Social Worker, says she knows it’s hard. But it’s so important, you must discuss it. “Studies say people would rather talk to their kids about sex than with their parents about their end-of-life plans,” she said.

There’s humor in a quip like that, but also truth. It’s a difficult talk, but it can save someone you love from suffering.

Hospice Is Often Unused

Hospice isn’t designed to add days to a life, but to add quality to the remaining days of life.

“Hospice care is about adding comfort and meaning to your loved one’s final days,” said Enfield. “Unfortunately, it’s a service most people overlook because of fear and misunderstanding.”

Hospice care is a Medicare-covered service. All private insurance coverage also includes a hospice benefit, most of which include comprehensive hospice care. Despite these facts, statistics from the Centers for Medicare & Medicaid (CMS) show that families and their loved ones are only using those services for about 70 days.

That’s just the average; at least half of all hospice patients have stays of less than 23 days.

“People wait too long and the benefits they could receive go unused,” Enfield said. “Furthermore, families and patients often navigate end-of-life care decisions alone. Teams like ours can offer support, and it can often be right in the home where they’re most comfortable.”

This happens even in cases when insurance or Medicare will cover the cost. “Hospice isn’t about dying – it’s about living until life’s final moments arrive,” Enfield said. The hospice team’s goal is to make life as comfortable as possible for the patient.

Getting Help When It’s Time to Talk

Starting the conversation can be easier for families if they turn to Avera@Home specialists first. “While a doctor’s order is required to begin hospice care, families can start these conversations sooner.”

Enfield encouraged siblings with older parents to start talking now, before the time comes when action is needed.

“When the time is right, they can call us and we’ll provide education about decisions,” Enfield said. Hospice professionals are also available any time to answer questions and get information to the family. Hospice professionals know such conversations start with a lot of listening.

“These talks need not be so hard and uncomfortable,” she said. “We can help and hope you won’t feel you have to do it alone.”

Another Way to Look at Hospice

One metaphor she uses is travel. You can certainly get your tickets and pack your bags and fly to Europe, finding your way as you go. Or you can get a tour guide for your trip who will make it more comfortable. Then you won’t get lost or have trouble.

“We can be your guide and help you find your way with hospice services,” Enfield said. “We’ll make sure your family finds care that fits them just right.”

Learn more hospice facts that can help your family.