On February 18 former president Jimmy Carter opted for home hospice care. Many people anticipated he would die within weeks or even days. However, more than four months later his choice is evidence that hospice is appropriate and recommended when life expectancy is 6 months or less and no further curative treatment or medical intervention is warranted. (Reevaluations are done periodically and I recall a patient living two years on the hospice I had been a staff member.) Many patients live longer merely because of the quality of care and help from the hospice team.

HELP can come in various ways. For example, home visits by nurses, social workers, aides, chaplains, grief counselors and volunteers help the family and patient with education and counseling. Equipment such as hospital beds, commodes, oxygen and meds to control pain and symptoms are invaluable for quality of life.

HOPE can be whatever it means for the patient and family. Perhaps it is to be in one’s own home surrounded by those you choose to be present. Or the hope to be physically comfortable. The final hope might be a peaceful death.

My 35 years as staff, volunteer, educator and family member have taught me the true value and benefits of hospice care.

-Harriet