When the rhythms of daily life shift from routines to treatments, and you find yourself juggling doctor’s appointments, medications, and the ever-changing needs of your loved one, it can feel overwhelming. You may wonder: is this decline normal, or is it time to call in extra help?
You don’t have to answer that question alone. WV Caring is a phone call away for families who are struggling with the physical, emotional, and logistical challenges of caring for a loved one at the end of life.
Hospice care is designed to bring comfort, dignity, and support when curative treatments are no longer the primary focus. There’s no single marker that tells you it’s time—but many small, meaningful signs:
- Frequent hospital or ER visits. If your loved one is in and out of the hospital more often, it could mean their condition is progressing.
- Uncontrolled symptoms. Pain, nausea, shortness of breath, or agitation that no longer responds well to treatments can signal the need for a new approach.
- Loss of interest in previously enjoyed activities. When simple pleasures—like listening to music, chatting with friends, or sitting on the porch—no longer bring joy, it may indicate increased fatigue or discomfort.
- Difficulty eating or drinking. A steady decline in appetite or inability to keep food and fluids down often accompanies the later stages of serious illness.
- Caregiver burnout. If you’re feeling physically, emotionally, or mentally exhausted—even after a good night’s rest—it’s a clear sign you need more hands on deck.
Hospice isn’t about giving up. It’s about shifting the focus from curing to caring, so every day counts. At WV Caring Hospice, our dedicated team delivers comfort-focused care—managing pain, easing symptoms, and offering emotional support to both patients and their families. They work together to meet your loved one’s needs, tailoring every aspect of care to your situation.
Whether in your own living room, a family member’s home, an assisted living community, or our inpatient unit, hospice care comes to you. And caregivers aren’t left on their own either: scheduled respite breaks give you the chance to rest, run errands, or simply recharge, knowing your loved one is in capable, compassionate hands.
Steps to take when you’re ready
The first step is to talk with your loved one’s primary physician. Ask if they meet hospice criteria and request WV Caring by name.
WV Caring Hospice offers a free, no-obligation consultation to explain services, answer questions, and coordinate care. During that visit, you’ll discuss what matters most—whether it’s comfort, family time, or making special memories. You’ll also schedule an initial home assessment, where a nurse will review medications and begin crafting a personalized care plan.
Caring for someone you love can feel isolating. Hospice care extends support to you, too:
- Emotional counseling. Speak with social workers or chaplains to process grief, anxiety, or caregiver stress.
- Educational resources. Learn how to manage symptoms, administer medications, or use medical equipment safely.
- Bereavement follow-up. After your loved one passes, ongoing grief support helps you adjust to life without the daily caregiving routine.
You don’t have to walk this path alone.
Deciding to call hospice may be one of the hardest choices your family faces—but it can also bring peace, connection, and relief. Hospice care honors your loved one’s wishes, manages symptoms compassionately, and surrounds your family with expert support—every step of the way.