How hospice care helps both patients and caregivers

Many hospice caregivers experience:

• Feeling overwhelmed by medical or care decisions
• Feelings of guilt when it’s hard to meet all responsibilities
• Frustration or sadness about changes in their loved one’s health
• Stress from balancing caregiving with work and home life
• Worry that choosing hospice means giving up

Hospice care does not mean giving up. Hospice focuses on comfort, dignity and quality of life. It helps caregivers spend meaningful time with their loved one while receiving guidance and support.  

Caregivers can find support from our care team as well as several of the support services we offer.

Hospice care team

Hospice care brings together a coordinated team that supports both patients and caregivers. The team works together to manage care needs and answer questions.

Southwest Medical Hospice, part of Optum, provides a care team that may include:

• Doctors and specialists
• Medical equipment and supplies
• Nurses
• Pharmacists
• Social workers

The hospice team visits as often as needed and is available 24 hours a day, 7 days a week to provide guidance or address concerns.

Hospice support services

Support services for hospice care can include:

• Counseling and grief support for families
• Emotional and spiritual support
• Help with daily care needs
• Pain and symptom management

Additional support services, when appropriate, may include:

• Holiday meal delivery
• Massage therapy
• Memory-sharing programs
• Pet visits
• Veteran recognition

These services are designed to offer comfort and reduce stress for both caregivers and patients.  

Caring for a loved one with serious illness can feel overwhelming — especially when support is limited. Hospice care is here to help caregivers feel supported, informed and less alone.

If you have questions about your loved one’s care or want to understand what support is available, a hospice consultation can help. A consultation gives you time to talk with a care professional, learn about hospice services and decide what feels right for your family.