Hospice care is typically provided to individuals who have a terminal illness or condition with a prognosis of months or less to live, as determined by a healthcare professional. However, it is always a personal decision, and you or your loved ones can opt for alternative care options. You just have to make sure you know your options and what you are fighting for.
Here are a few alternatives to hospice care:
Curative Treatment
If you or your loved one is eligible for curative treatment and wishes to continue pursuing treatment options to try and cure the underlying illness, you can opt for this approach instead of hospice care.
Palliative Care
Palliative care is a form of specialized medical care that focuses on providing relief from the symptoms and suffering associated with a serious illness. Unlike hospice care, you can recieve palliative care at any stage of an illness including during active treatment.
Home Health Care
Home health care can provide various medical and non-medical services in your own home. This care may be a suitable option if you want to recieve assistance with activities of daily living, medical care or rehabilitation without opting for hospice.
It’s important to have open and honest dicussions with healthcare providers and family members to make informed decisions about the type of care that is most suitable for the indvidual’s needs, values and goals. Hospice care can be a valuable option for those with terminal illnesses who prioritze comfort and quality of life over aggressive medical treatment. However, the decision to avoid or discontinue hospice care is a personal one and should be based on indvidual preferences and circumstances.
For more information on if Home Care is right for you, please contact Assured Hospice Care at 248-262-2200.