Here Community Hospice answers questions patients and families most often have about hospice care, a rediscovered aspect of patient care enabling one to face the end of life peacefully.

Is hospice the same as hospitalization? No. Hospice care takes place wherever needed, usually at home.

Is it only for cancer? No. Actually, fewer than half our patients have cancer. Diseases we deal with include HIV/AIDS, emphysema, Alzheimer’s disease and related dementias, heart failure, and neuromuscular diseases such as ALS (Lou Gehrig’s disease).

Is it only for the elderly? No. While most of our patients understandably are older, we serve patients at any age. Nationally, about 20 percent of hospice patients are younger than 65 years.

Is it only for the dying? No, we are here to serve the grieving family as much as the patient.

If I need serious care, can I still get hospice care? Yes.

What is the care like? As a patient, your pain is lessened or eliminated, enabling you to enjoy your last days to the fullest. Also, a nurse is on call to assist or answer questions 24/7; no more calls to 911 or trips to the emergency room. Also, home health aides visit you to help with daily living such as bathing.

What is bereavement support? Bereavement support includes phone calls, education about the normal feelings and stages of grief (denial, anger, bargaining, depression, and acceptance), and support groups with other grieving people.  The patient's family and loved ones are followed by Community Hospice bereavement for 13 months after the patient passes.  This allows the family and loved ones to have support during all of the life events following the patient's passing.