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How Often Should I Visit Home to Help with Hospice Care?
Date Updated: December 5, 2024
Written by:
Tiffany Amber Stockton, an award-winning author and speaker, excels in crafting narratives on senior healthcare, with an expertise in memory care after helping her grandfather live with dementia. With twenty-six published books to her credit, she uniquely blends literary prowess with a compassionate understanding of the challenges faced by older adults. Follow her on LinkedIn for updates on her distinguished writing career in the realm of professional copywriting and copyediting.
Reviewed by:
Dr. Brindusa Vanta is a health care professional, researcher, and an experienced medical writer (2000+ articles published online and several medical ebooks). She received her MD degree from “Iuliu Hatieganu” University of Medicine, Romania, and her HD diploma from OCHM – Toronto, Canada.
How often you should visit home to help with hospice care depends on the situation, but a common recommendation is to aim for at least a few times a week. The exact frequency depends on your loved one's needs, caregiver availability, hospice support, your commitments, distance and finances. Regular visits provide emotional support, but the frequency of visits should be coordinated with hospice staff.
Factors That Influence Frequency of Visits
Individuals in hospice care often experience fluctuating health conditions, which require varying levels of support. In the early stages of relative stability, fewer visits typically occur. As the illness progresses, consider your loved one's emotional and psychological needs. Regular visits often provide comfort and alleviate feelings of isolation or loneliness. However, if cognitive levels decline and they get upset when you visit, you should limit your time with them in person.
If you have limited time off from work or other family obligations, coordinate with the hospice team to determine the optimal visit schedule. They can offer insights into your loved one's condition and recommend the best times to visit based on care routines and medical needs. The hospice team often provides a schedule of care, so try to select times that cause the least interruption. This helps ensure your loved one has someone available for reliable support and comfort.
Plan and Manage Visits
Family caregivers must balance work, personal commitments and self-care with their caregiving duties. Burnout frequently occurs for caregivers, so set a sustainable visiting routine. If possible, share the responsibilities with other family members or friends to ensure your loved one receives frequent visits. Open communication informs everyone about the loved one's condition and any changes in care needs.
When you visit, make your visits meaningful. Companionship remains the most valuable form of support. Engage in activities your loved one enjoys, such as reading, watching a favorite television program, listening to music or simply talking. Small gestures, such as bringing a favorite snack or a photo album, make visits more enjoyable. If you live far away or can't visit frequently, use technology to stay connected. Regular phone calls, video chats or sending letters and photos help maintain a strong connection and provide emotional support even from a distance.