Follow
Share

My mom will be 99 in July. She has shortness of breath and is anemic. She does not want to go to hospital.

This question has been closed for answers. Ask a New Question.
Find Care & Housing
I'm very interested in your question. What if the patient doesn't qualify for Hospice? I'm curious as to how you avoid the hospital, if you have Palliative Care, but, not yet at Hospice level. I hope someone will chime in on this.
Helpful Answer (1)
Report

The requirements for Palliative Care are not nearly as stringent as for hospice but often an agency will be hospice and palliative care depending on the patients level of care needed. For hospice the patient needs to have a diagnosis that will probably result in death within six moths. There is no such requirement for Palliative care where the emphasis is on providing needed services and advice on handling ADLs and recommendations for things like PT. All done in co-operation with the patient's PCG. Dementia is usually not a diagnosis suitable for hospice care until close to the end but palliative care can be very helpful. You can request a hospice evaluation at any time without a Dr's involvement although it will be required for admission to hospice.
Helpful Answer (3)
Report

My mom is now enrolled in Palliative care. It is a God send. There are certain requirements if you want to call them, Mom's is Shortness of Breath. Her 02 was 85. So a call to the MD with that info from Visiting Nurse services soon turned into Visiting Nurse service, Pallative care. Of course, with the wishings of my mom not be hospitalized. If you think your family member qualifies, google Pallative care in your area and start the talking process. You will be comforted greatly. Oxygen was delivered last night, meds delivered, Intake RN came to home, Social worker, all a truly support group that cares about all aspects, physical, spiritual, etc. Mom's wishes of being home and cared for were granted through them. They can make recommendations for aids if you need them. Do not hesitate to call. I am surprised that my MD didn't recommend this at all. I researched and dived right in and it is amazing the support you now have.
Helpful Answer (1)
Report

Palliative care is not the same as Hospice. It's for people who are dealing with chronic illnesses that affect their life and comfort level. They also have social workers and people on file to sit with the person who is enrolled when the family needs it. They work with your doctors and have been helpful to back us up on preferences when dealing with the family doctor. The co payment is usually about $18 per month.
Helpful Answer (0)
Report

This question has been closed for answers. Ask a New Question.
Ask a Question
Subscribe to
Our Newsletter