For Families | West Michigan Hospice
A quiet, reassuring moment with a loved one
Understanding hospice care

How do you know when it’s time?

Hospice is not about giving up hope. It is about shifting the focus toward comfort, quality of life and meaningful time together. You can reach out with questions before making any decisions.

Some families begin exploring hospice when an illness progresses, hospital visits become more frequent, or everyday activities become more difficult.

Support that surrounds you

Care for your loved one.
Strength for your family.

Hospice is more than medical care. Our team helps families navigate the physical, emotional and spiritual challenges that can come with serious illness.

01

Comfort & Symptom Management

Care focused on relief from pain and other symptoms so your loved one can be as comfortable as possible.

02

Emotional & Spiritual Care

Compassionate listening, spiritual guidance and prayer when welcomed, always respecting personal beliefs.

03

Guidance & Resources

Social work support to help families understand choices, coordinate resources and navigate practical concerns.

04

Skilled Nursing Support

Experienced hospice nurses who help manage changing needs and provide education for family caregivers.

05

Caregiver & Volunteer Support

Education, companionship and practical help that can give family caregivers additional support.

06

Grief & Bereavement Support

Compassionate guidance for families as they navigate grief, loss and remembrance.

A conversation can make a difference

You don’t have to figure it out alone.

Whether you’re just beginning to ask questions or ready to explore hospice care, we’re here to listen without pressure.

Older adult sharing a warm moment with family
02 / The path forward

We’ll walk beside you, one step at a time.

Starting hospice care should feel like getting support, not adding to your family’s responsibilities. We’ll help explain the process and develop a care plan centered on your loved one’s needs and wishes.

  • Start with a conversation about your questions and concerns.
  • Discuss care needs, goals and hospice eligibility.
  • Develop an individualized plan with the hospice care team.
  • Receive ongoing guidance as your loved one’s needs change.
03 / Your questions, answered

Clear answers.
Peace of mind.

Questions are a natural part of this journey. Here are a few common ones, and our team is always available to discuss your specific situation.

Does choosing hospice mean we are giving up?

No. Hospice focuses on comfort, dignity, quality of life and supporting the moments that matter. Families can continue to hope for meaningful time together while choosing care that prioritizes comfort.

Can my loved one receive hospice care at home?

Yes. Hospice care is often provided in a person’s own home, and it may also be provided in assisted living, nursing facilities or other settings where someone lives.

Will hospice support our family, too?

Yes. Hospice care includes support for family members and caregivers, including education, emotional guidance, spiritual care when desired and bereavement support.

Does our family need to share the same faith?

No. Our faith inspires how we serve, but care is provided with dignity and respect for every patient’s and family’s beliefs, values and personal wishes.

How do we know whether our loved one qualifies?

Hospice eligibility generally involves a physician’s determination that a patient has a life expectancy of six months or less if the illness follows its expected course. Our team can explain the criteria and help you understand next steps.

How is hospice paid for?

Hospice services are commonly covered through Medicare, Medicaid and many private insurance plans, subject to individual eligibility and coverage rules. We can help you review the details for your family.

Here whenever you need us

Let’s take the next step together.

When you're ready, we're here to answer questions, offer reassurance and help your family understand the care options available.