senior lady with caregivers

When a loved one is nearing the end of life, comfort and top quality care are the primary concerns. Families need to know that the person they love will receive everything they will need for a peaceful transition. Hospice care is indispensable during this period, and partnering end-of-life care with home care services means that both the person receiving care and members of the family have all of the bases covered. The combination of both services allows families to concentrate on being together.

There is often some confusion as to what both of these services offer, and how much they cost. Grace Home Care’s experts in home and memory care in Topeka have the information you need.

Hospice Care

Hospice care is available when an illness or health condition is no longer responding to medical treatment and life expectancy is six months or less. Treatment moves on to palliative strategies to help keep the individual comfortable and to ensure the highest possible quality of life. Medicare and most private insurance cover the cost for hospice care, which includes:

  • Physician and nursing care
  • Medical equipment and supplies
  • Treatments for pain and symptom management
  • Physical, occupational, and/or speech therapy services
  • Social services
  • Nutrition counseling
  • Spiritual/grief counseling for both the person receiving care and members of the family
  • And other services as advised by the hospice care team

Home Care

Non-medical home care services, like those supplied by Grace Home Care, enhance end-of-life care services by filling any gaps in care needs, such as:

  • Friendly companionship
  • Running errands
  • Meal preparation
  • Housekeeping and laundry
  • Respite for family caregivers
  • And so much more

It is essential for someone to be with the individual receiving hospice care night and day, and to have one person designated as the primary caregiver. This person is usually a relative or friend who can keep an eye on symptoms and concerns as well as provide the majority of the physical care the individual requires. However, the main caregiver cannot (and really should not try to) do so all by themselves. This is where home care comes in.

An in-home caregiver can be available for as much help as families need, any time of day. They can also lessen some of the stress the primary caregiver and other family members are facing by taking care of the daily needs within the home that are still necessary. This collaboration allows families to concentrate on spending quality time together, to get the rest they need, and to care for their own personal responsibilities.

In contrast to hospice care, in-home care costs are paid for privately. There are a number of different options available, including:

  • Out of pocket
  • Long-term care insurance
  • Veterans’ Aid & Attendance

Our in-home care professionals are here to help you receive any benefits for which you might be qualified to cover home care services. Reach out to us at 785‑286‑2273 for a free in-home assessment to learn more.