Living with a loved one diagnosed with a terminal illness can be extremely difficult. The loved ones need to be taken care of properly, as the signs of illnesses can worsen with time. You know the end can be near anytime soon. Still, you work hard to take proper care so that they can get peace of mind. That’s the purpose of hospice and respite care services.
In this blog, we are going to look at the difference between hospice and respite care. Knowing the difference, you will get a comprehensive idea of whether your loved ones need one or not. We understand the challenges of dealing with a terminal illness, and therefore, the importance of hospice and respite care can be nothing but a blessing in disguise.
Let’s explore the difference between the two-Hospice care and Respite care:
| Difference | Hospice Care | Respite Care |
|---|---|---|
| Purpose | Relief to the symptoms of the illnesses | Temporary break to the individual for a while |
| Where to get care? | Home, hospital or any other care facility | Home, hospital or any other care facility |
| Eligibility | Have 6 months or lesser than live | Provide relief to caregivers who need a break for a while |
| Duration | Can be extended till the end of life | Few hours or several days or weeks |
Purpose
Hospice Care
These home care services are designed for individuals who are nearing the end of life. That’s why it is also known as end-of-life care. The primary objective is to provide relief for the symptoms of the disease rather than treat the illness. This brings some relief to the individual in their final days. So, the primary focus is pain management, symptom control, and emotional well-being.
Respite care
When you take care of your loved one, we understand the emotional challenges of providing hospice care services. This is a full-time job where you get no time for yourself, and this can seriously take a toll on your mental health. That’s where respite care services come into play because the loved ones are taken care of, and the primary caregiver can get a respite for a while. This allows the caregiver to refresh themselves or fulfill their commitments too.
Where do you get the care?
Hospice care
You can get hospice care at any of your preferred locations. This includes at home, in a hospital, or in any senior care facility. You need to check with the hospital or the care facility to know whether you can get hospice care services or not.
Respite care
Respite care services can be provided anywhere, either in a care facility, a nursing home, a hospital, or any other institution. It can also be arranged at home if your loved one needs it. This allows them to get care and comfort in familiar surroundings.
Who is eligible to get the care?
Hospice care
Anyone diagnosed with a terminal illness who has 6 months or less to live can get hospice care. You can speak to a healthcare professional or a physician to understand whether your loved one is eligible for hospice care or not.
Respite care
Eligibility for respite care doesn’t depend on the conditions of the loved ones. The primary goal is to provide relief to the loved ones, and the caregivers or the primary caregiver can take a break for a while.
Duration of Care
Hospice care
Hospice care can be extended until the end of life, and the person is eligible to take hospice and then stop it when it is not needed. You can also resume the hospice after a while, depending on the condition of the loved ones.
Respite care
The caregivers can take a short-term break for a while that ranges from a few hours to several days to weeks, depending on the needs of the caregivers. Having respite care helps the loved ones and the caregivers get peace of mind and fulfill their commitments.
Looking for Hospice and Respite care in Maryland?
Having known the difference between hospice and respite care, you know whether your loved ones need it or not. Hospice care looks after the comfort and quality of life of the loved ones diagnosed with chronic illnesses, while respite care provides relief to the primary caregivers who struggle with their emotional and physical well-beingIf you have been looking for hospice care services for your loved ones, get in touch with Comfikare Homecare. Our certified caregivers understand the challenges facing seniors and their primary caregivers and help loved ones and their families deal with the challenging times.