Heart-Felt Decisions: Am I Ready for Hospice?

My 91 year old Grandma has congestive heart failure (CHF). She's dependent on oxygen, needs considerable assistance with her daily needs, and is very forgetful. She's also stubborn as a mule and insists on living alone and doing things her way. Not that she means to be difficult but it sure puts a strain on her children who must take turns caring for her. I know they would gladly welcome any help that's available to them.

Based on her current health status, Grandma would qualify for hospice care. Try telling this to anyone of her children, however, and the conversation just falls flat. You see, my aunts (and probably my mom too, though she doesn't admit it) still fall prey to those ugly hospice myths. Hospice means your giving up, hospice means your knocking at deaths door, hospice means you have to stop all treatment. All very false.

You might think that having a registered nurse in the family, one who is certified in hospice and palliative care no less, would make a difference. You probably think that I would be able convince everyone that hospice just might improve Grandma's condition and not necessarily lead her straight to her grave. Easier said than done.

I would be forever grateful if some health professional in Boise would approach the topic of palliative care with my family. Coming from someone other than a family member, it would probably sound pretty reasonable. Until then, I'll continue to gently suggest comfort care by dropping a few hints here and there. Although, if my family actually reads my blog I guess my cover will be blown!

So, if you or your family member has heart disease, how will you know when your ready for hospice care? Here are some resources to help:

The #1 Killer: Heart Disease

I Have Severe Heart Disease. Am I Ready for Hospice?

Hospice Admission Criteria for Heart Disease

About Heart Disease

Have you had to make a similar difficult decision? Share your story in the Palliative Care Forum.