One of the most common questions families ask is, “When should we call hospice?”
It’s a question filled with emotion, uncertainty, and love, and it’s one we’re here to help you answer.
Many people believe hospice care is only for the final days of life, but the truth is that calling earlier can bring more support, more comfort, and more time to focus on what matters most.
Signs It Might Be Time to Call Hospice
Hospice care is for individuals with a life-limiting illness and a prognosis of six months or less, but the signs that it’s time often appear in small, meaningful ways:
- Frequent hospital visits or emergency room trips
- Rapid physical decline or loss of mobility
- Increased pain, fatigue, or shortness of breath
- Difficulty with daily tasks like eating, dressing, or bathing
- A desire to stop aggressive treatments or focus on comfort
- Emotional or spiritual distress, in both the patient and family
If any of these feel familiar, it may be time to explore whether hospice could help.
Why Calling Sooner Matters
Choosing hospice earlier gives families access to:
- 24/7 support
- Pain and symptom management
- Emotional and spiritual care
- Help with caregiving tasks
- Respite care and grief support
Hospice is about quality of life, and the earlier we begin, the more we can offer.
You Don’t Have to Be Sure
You don’t need a definitive answer before you call. Our team is here to listen, guide, and support you without pressure. We’ll help you understand your options, answer your questions, and walk with you as you decide what’s best for your loved one.