Hospice care focuses on making sure that your loved one is comfortable and supported at the end of life.  Hospice care also supports caregivers and family members during this difficult time.

An individual is considered to be in their last six months of life before hospice services are provided.  A physician must order hospice care.  The focus of hospice is to provide care that ensures comfort and dignity at the end of life.  But, healthcare services similar to those available in home health care are available.

For patients with Medicare, hospice services are covered under Part A of their healthcare benefits.  Once admitted to hospice services, caregivers will have access to respite support services that may be covered by Medicare.

It is important to remember that hospice services also provide counseling, spiritual/religious support, and social work services to the family.

On-line Resources

Contacts

• Hospice Care for Dementia:  http://www.alz.org/care/alzheimers-dementia-hospice.asp
• Medicare Benefit for Hospice:  http://www.medicare.gov/Pubs/pdf/02154.pdf

• Alabama Hospice and Palliative Care Organization: 1-334-421-8884
• National Association for Home Care & Hospice: 1-202-547-7424