In light of the news about former President Jimmy Carter receiving hospice care, some might wonder what that entails.
Dr. Helen Gordon, director of palliative care at the University of Maryland St. Joseph Medical Center, told sister station WBAL that the U.S. government made hospice care an insurance benefit in 1982 so people that could die peacefully at home.
Gordon said some of the aspects to consider include: “What makes a good death for you? What is going to make you most comfortable when that time comes?”
Gordon said 90% of hospice care happens at home, whether that’s a private residence or an assisted living facility. Hospice is provided when the patient’s prognosis is about six months or less. And, it’s ultimately an acceptance.
“Despite all of our amazing technology that can be helpful, it’s not going to help this person live longer and it isn’t benefitting them quality of life-wise, and so (hospice care helps) that person, instead, be home, saving their family’s energy for what’s important, processing their life and their life story,” Gordon said.
Hospice differs from palliative care, which happens when a person has an incurable illness that will likely be fatal in the coming years.
“It means for someone who is seeing their cardiologist because of their heart failure, that’s the extra layer of care to discuss what’s most important to you. What have you heard from your doctor? What do you expect to happen next?” Gordon said.
Statistics indicate patients often live longer once they move to hospice care because they’re more comfortable, less stressed and just generally happier.
