Deciding that it is time for your loved one to go into hospice care is never an easy decision. However, when provided in a patient’s home, hospice care can be a pleasant and comforting experience as they enter the final phases of life. Here are five caregiver tips to keep in mind as you transition your loved one to hospice care.

1. Install Hand Rails & Shower Seats in Bathrooms

Hospice patients are extremely susceptible to slips and falls in the bathroom. These simple additions will make it much easier for your loved one to use the bathroom. A Bethesda home health aide will also provide additional support in the bathroom.

2. Minimize Need for Stairs

Your loved one may eventually have trouble with stairs. Consider arranging for a hospital bed on the first floor of the family home, as well as a wheelchair to help them get around.

3. Prevent Oxygen Tank Fires

Your loved one may eventually need an oxygen tank. If so, keep in mind that the oxygen is highly flammable. Therefore, avoid smoking in the house to prevent the risk of fire.

4. Collect Medical Records & Supplies

You’ll want to have copies of all medical records and medications easily accessible. Consider putting together a folder that is easily accessible with all of their medical records as well as an emergency medical kit. There are many valuable resources available to help you organize these records, such as Bethesda’s free Personal Emergency Medical Information Kit.

5. Keep Important Third Parties Up-to-Date

While your loved one is in hospice care, you should make sure certain parties have your correct contact information in case they need to reach you. This includes:

• Nurses
• Social workers
• Home health aides
• Clergy
• Hospice volunteers

The Bethesda Difference

At Bethesda, we provide exceptional senior care through a holistic approach that cares for every aspect of life: physical, social, emotional and spiritual. Our level of care and attention even benefits the patient’s adult children, who take comfort in knowing that their parent is receiving the very best care.

Learn about all Hospice care options available to you.