How do I know if my loved one qualifies for hospice?
Hospice eligibility is determined by a physician who certifies that, if the illness follows its expected course, the patient's life expectancy is six months or less. This prognosis is made based on clinical criteria specific to the diagnosis, such as measurable decline in key health indicators over time.
Common signs that a loved one may be approaching hospice eligibility include:
- Frequent hospitalizations for the same condition
- Significant unintentional weight loss over several months
- Progressive weakness and declining ability to perform daily activities
- Increasing difficulty eating or swallowing
- A general sense that the illness is advancing despite treatment
If you are unsure whether your loved one qualifies, the best first step is to call us for a free consultation. Our clinical team can review the medical situation and provide an honest assessment of whether hospice is appropriate. Reaching out early is never the wrong choice.