Even doctors have a hard time saying it is time to consider hospice. If you are having trouble discussing hospice, it is not surprising. Please be aware that we believe hospice is about living well, having quality time and focusing on comfort. We have a host of experts and tools to help you achieve those goals.

Before you begin

Take the time to understand hospice and the support it can offer before you begin the conversation. Please explore our website for more information.  If this does not give you what you need, or if you have additional questions, please call us at (530) 758-5566.

Understand each other

People cope with end-of-life issues in many ways. People who are seriously ill need to feel they have choices, can set goals and have some control in their lives. Please let your loved one know that they can change their mind at any time and discontinue hospice. Patients may experience a variety of emotions, including confusion, grief, or anger. You may not reach a decision about hospice the first time you consider it.

Listen

The concerns and desires of the ill person may be critical now, particularly when you begin to discuss hospice care. Whenever your loved one expresses a concern, fear or question, listen to the questions and to the emotions behind it. Try to respond with sensitivity to the questions and the emotion. Yolo Hospice is available to provide you with answers to any question about hospice and, as your loved one’s care provider, support you and your loved one’s emotional needs.

Honor the discussion

Make appropriate time for this discussion. Minimize distractions so you can devote yourselves to an engaged discussion. Please also know that a Yolo Hospice representative can be present if you request it.