When a loved one is dying, they often want to be at home surrounded by the people they love. There is comfort in being in a familiar setting. While hospitals and long-term care facilities do the best they can to offer palliative care, there truly is no place like home. Bringing a loved one home, however, is not as simple as it may seem. There are several questions you'll need to be answered to prepare in advance. 

Will they need nursing staff?

While the idea of hospice and palliative care is to cease medical treatment while making the patient feel as comfortable as possible, you may still need nursing staff to assist you. Depending on your situation and which state you live in, you may require a registered nurse to administer pain medication. You may also want to hire nursing staff so you can get some sleep at night knowing that someone is caring for your loved one.

Where will they sleep?

When preparing for hospice care at home, many families choose to keep their loved one on the main floor of the home. This could mean a first-floor master or guest room, or it could mean temporarily transforming a dining room into a bedroom. Hospital beds are available to rent for this purpose. 

Hospital beds are convenient for this process for many reasons. When you rent a hospital bed you have the ability to raise and lower both the foot and the head of the bed for maximum comfort. There are also side rails that can be raised and locked into place for added security. Furthermore, the mattress is easy to wipe down should the need arise.

Will you need respite care?

Palliative care can be hard work. Many caregivers spend long hours with their loved one, not wanting to miss a moment of what time they have left. The need for respite care is real. Have a plan in place to allow yourself a break. Whether you need to spend time with young children, have a hot meal, or just get some fresh air for an hour, line up a few trusted people you can call to help. When people say they want to help, let them.   

Will you need other equipment?

In addition to renting a hospital bed, you may need to rent other medical equipment. While the goal is to remove your loved one from a hospital setting, there may be additional things that you need, like a walker or a wheelchair. Insurance covers most of these items, sometimes even the hospital bed. Check with your provider for details on your policy before bringing your loved one home.

Will you need clergy or religious services?

Many people find comfort in having a clergy member or leader from their faith visit them in their final days. Ask your loved one what their wishes are and make arrangements for a member of their faith to visit once you are set up at home. This is not an inconvenience for the clergy member, but rather part of their job.  

Do you have access to mental healthcare?

Helping a family member or loved one through palliative care in their final days is challenging at best. While taking care of them is your top priority, realize that you may need someone to talk to. Grief can be overwhelming and having a good mental health plan in place can help you find the strength to carry on. 

Hospice care gives you a little more time with your loved one in a comfortable and private setting. If you are prepared for their arrival with a the needed medical equipment and a hospital bed rental, and a team of helpers, you can make the transition home easier on everyone.