When Is It Time to Consider Hospice Care at Home?

Deciding when to begin hospice care is one of the most emotional and personal choices a family will make. But recognizing the signs that it may be time for hospice can bring comfort, clarity, and a renewed focus on quality of life.

At AdvisaCare, we provide compassionate, in-home hospice services that allow individuals to spend their final months in the place they know best—surrounded by loved ones and supported by a team who understands their needs.

Understanding Hospice Care at Home

Hospice care is not about giving up. It’s about shifting the focus from curative treatments to comfort, dignity, and emotional support. Most people choose hospice when a serious illness progresses and medical treatments no longer improve quality of life.

Choosing hospice at home allows patients to:

Remain in a familiar and comforting environment
Be surrounded by family, pets, and cherished belongings
Receive personalized medical, emotional, and spiritual support
Avoid unnecessary hospital visits or readmissions

Signs It May Be Time for Hospice

Families often ask, “How do we know it’s time?” While every situation is unique, these signs may indicate that hospice could help:

1. Frequent Hospitalizations or ER Visits

Repeated hospital stays for the same condition may signal that curative treatment is no longer effective.

2. Declining Functional Ability

Needing help with walking, eating, or bathing more often could suggest a shift in health.

3. Rapid Weight Loss or Loss of Appetite

Nutrition challenges are common in advanced illness and may affect strength and healing.

4. Increased Pain or Symptoms

Unmanaged discomfort, difficulty breathing, or other uncontrolled symptoms can be better addressed with hospice care.

5. Emotional and Spiritual Distress

Hospice teams include social workers and chaplains who help patients and families cope with fear, sadness, or unresolved concerns.

Benefits of In-Home Hospice Care

At AdvisaCare, our in-home hospice services include:

Skilled nursing and pain management
Medication and equipment delivery
Emotional and spiritual counseling
Assistance with personal care
24/7 on-call support for urgent needs

By delivering care at home, we help families focus on what matters most: time together, meaningful moments, and peace of mind.

Learn more about hospice care at home from the National Institute on Aging.

It’s Okay to Ask Questions

Hospice doesn’t mean giving up—it means gaining support. If you’re unsure whether it’s time, speaking with a hospice provider can help you make informed decisions. In fact, starting hospice earlier often results in better symptom control, fewer crises, and more time for meaningful connection.

📞 Contact AdvisaCare today to speak with a compassionate team member about your options. We’re here to guide and support you every step of the way.