Caregivers

Caregivers for Hospice patients:

Caregivers play a crucial role in the care of a terminally ill patient. They provide non-medical support and are often the primary source of comfort and support for the patient. Hospice teams work closely with caregivers to ensure that the patient receives the best possible care and support.

Services for Caregivers:

  • The hospice team provides medical supplies and medication as needed

  • Hospice team members make regular visits to assess the patient's needs

  • Hospice team members provide medical care to alleviate symptoms and pain

  • Hospice team members are available to answer any questions or concerns

What if You Don't Have a Caregiver?

  • Admit the patient to a nursing home or assisted living facility

  • Hire a private agency to provide non-medical care

  • Apply to an In Home Support Service (IHS) for eligible patients over 65, disabled, or blind

  • Consider the Election of Skilled Nursing Facility (SNF) or Nursing Facilities (NFs) with Medicaid coverage

  • Contact Family Caregiver Resource Centers for information on grants for short-term in-home care

Caregivers are an essential part of hospice care, providing comfort and support to terminally ill patients. Hospice teams work closely with caregivers to ensure that the patient receives the best possible care and support. If you don't have a caregiver, there are options available to help support you and your loved one during this difficult time.

Option 1:

You can apply to an in Home Support Service (IHS). To be eligible, you must be 65 year of age and over, or disabled, or blind. The IHSS Program will help pay for services provided to you so that you can remain in your own home.

Option 2:

The Election of Skilled Nursing Facility (SNF) and Nursing Facilities (NFs). When patients receive hospice care, Medicaid pays the hospice the daily amount allowed by the State for room and board while the patient is receiving hospice care, and the hospice pays the facility. These services include personal care services, maintaining the cleanliness of a resident’s room, administration of medication, socializing activities, and supervising and assisting the use of medical equipment, prescribed therapies, and assistance in activities of daily living.

Option 3:

The Family Caregiver Resource Centers can help direct you to any grants

that you may qualify for. Typically, these grants can pay for short-term in home care to help supplement your needs.