I've wanted this for some time but there was push back and frankly I caved but a recent experience with her general practitioner prescribing Donepezil pushed me over the edge. What I think this might solve is bringing more expertise into the equation, and perhaps superior navigation on the hospice issue when it becomes appropriate. I've been reading many doctors struggle or hesitate to recommend hospice due to unfamiliarity with the rules as it pertains to Alzheimer's patients. Anyone go this route?
Based on decline I think this Hospice could be a very real possibility in six months time.
She had a geriatric primary. But how she went on hospice was from home health services from Part B Medicare for homebound. They told me she could get more services on hospice so we transferred to that group. Know that every hospice is different as they are private companies. The patient must qualify in that most with her illness would pass within six months if the condition ran its normal course.
You are right that many doctors are not familiar with hospice. Do some research on hospice companies in your area and have them evaluate your loved one for services.
Each person is different, comorbidities are different, etc.
it is often said that people wait to long before going on hospice.
At one hospital stay, they diagnosed “adult failure to thrive” and that got my dad the hospice referral.
I think you can also call the hospice provider to have him assessed yourself at home.