When planning for your end-of-life care, you may want to consider different options before choosing the one that best fits your needs. There are several resources that can help, but with so many available, it can be challenging to pick one.
Before making a decision, take the time to weigh your options to make an informed decision that’s tailored to your preferences.
End-of-life care
When it comes to end-of-life care, you may want to ensure you stay somewhere that prioritizes your comfort, dignity and quality of life. Two options you may want to consider include:
- Hospice care: Typically provided in the last stages of life, for those who have a life expectancy of six months or less. This type of care focuses on managing pain and symptoms either at home, the hospital, a hospice, or a long-term care facility.
- Palliative care: This type of care deals with any stage of a serious illness that may or may not be terminal. The goal is to improve or manage the illness of an individual.
While it is advisable to assess your needs and preferences, you also need to take into account the costs of both options and whether you can afford them.
Other care options
As your health changes, the level of care and support you need may also change. If you are seeking other options aside from hospice and palliative care, here are two you may want to consider:
- In-home care: This may involve a caregiver coming to the individual’s home to provide support and aid. This is typically preferred by most elderly individuals since they can stay in a comfortable setting and enjoy more freedom.
- Nursing home care and assisted living facilities: These facilities provide a more structured environment with medical and personal care services. You may prefer this setting if you need high-level support which will be met by skilled nursing professionals.
Whether your wishes focus on hospice, palliative, in-home or nursing home care, remember that it’s your decision. You have the power to make it as comfortable as possible for yourself when you are ill and during your final days.
Fulfilling your wishes
If you are unable to make medical decisions on your own, it may be a good idea to create an estate plan that clearly outlines your end-of-life wishes. By discussing your estate plan with your loved ones, you can ensure that your wishes are understood and carried out after you pass away.
Ultimately, the choices you make should be based on what is best for you, your needs, and your specific situation.
