Hospice Care for Fibromyalgia: Everything You Need to Know
Despite the tireless efforts of doctors, patients, and their families, managing fibromyalgia can be incredibly challenging. If you or your loved one is facing severe symptoms that significantly impact daily life, hospice care can provide significant comfort and support.
Understanding Hospice Care for Fibromyalgia Patients
Hospice care prioritizes the quality of life for individuals with serious illnesses or chronic conditions. It is recommended when a patient’s condition is categorized as “life-limiting,” focusing on symptom management rather than a cure.
Fibromyalgia presents a variety of symptoms, ranging from chronic pain and extreme fatigue to sleep disturbances and cognitive difficulties. Hospice services can help people with fibromyalgia live more comfortably, relieving some of the caregiving responsibilities from families.
How Hospice Care Can Help Fibromyalgia Patients
Depending on a patient’s personalized care plan, they may receive some or all of the following hospice services:
- Chronic pain management: A range of services and medications to help patients live as comfortably and peacefully as possible.
- Hospice physician: Evaluates changes in the patient’s condition and writes hospice care orders based on those findings.
- Hospice nursing: Includes regular nurse visits to assess health, administer medications, communicate with caregivers, and more.
- Personal care aides: Assist with daily tasks like bathing, dressing, eating, and toileting.
- Counseling and spiritual care: Available to both patients and their families.
- Durable medical equipment: Such as walkers, wheelchairs, beds, and more.
- Volunteer services: Can include anything from household chores to grocery shopping.
With these services, hospice care can significantly improve the quality of life for fibromyalgia patients and their families. Knowing that your loved one’s care is in good hands allows you to focus on spending enjoyable time together.
Signs It May Be Time to Call Hospice
Throughout your loved one’s journey with fibromyalgia, it’s important to monitor their physical and mental wellbeing. Any rapid decline in health or increase in symptom severity could indicate the need for hospice care. Here are some common signs to look out for:
- Increased chronic pain
- Frequent hospital visits
- Severe fatigue and weakness
- Significant weight loss
- Decreased alertness
- Wish to spend more time at home than in a hospital or treatment facility
- Wish to stop intensive treatments
Determining Hospice Care Eligibility for Fibromyalgia Patients
A physician will generally recommend hospice care when your loved one’s condition is declared “life-limiting.” To fully determine hospice care eligibility, families will typically have a consultation either over the phone, in person, or both. During this no-obligation consultation, we’ll discuss current medical conditions, care goals, and how West Michigan Hospice can help. We’ll also check insurance coverage and go over all of your options. Often, you’ll meet with Aaron Leestma, our CEO and founder.
If you’re unsure if your loved one is eligible for hospice care or need help navigating the benefit election process, a trusted hospice care provider can assist.
Caring for a loved one with fibromyalgia can be difficult. If you need help, you can turn to West Michigan Hospice. Our team specializes in quality-of-life comfort care, managing your loved one’s chronic symptoms so you can focus on making more precious memories together. For more information, we’re just a phone call away at (616) 258-2680.