“I only wish I had contacted hospice care for my loved one sooner.” -Hospice patient family member

This is a common feeling expressed by family members. Over our years of caring for patients with terminal and life-limiting illnesses, we’ve heard it many times. And it’s not just a feeling. The truth is that often, when it comes to hospice and palliative care, sooner is better. Here are some reasons why:

1. Longer life

Research has shown that hospice patients live longer. Studies compared patients receiving only curative care with patients receiving hospice care for the same illnesses. They found that those receiving hospice care tended to live longer. Any treatment takes time out of your life, and hospice can give you some of that valuable time back.

2. Improved quality of life

You feel better with hospice care. Many treatments for terminal illnesses actually make you feel worse. Many cancer patients feel much sicker once they begin treatment than before. With hospice care, we focus on your quality of life. Our treatments are designed to help minimize the effects of aggressive curative treatments you may be receiving. This can significantly improve your quality of life.

3. Increased control over your life

Because our treatment focuses on managing your symptoms, you spend less time in the hospital. We work with you to find ways to help you stay active and connected with friends and family. You will have more freedom to live your life as you see fit.

4. You can leave hospice care and return as needed

There is a common misconception that hospice is final. But that’s not true. You have complete freedom to enter and leave hospice care as needed. If your condition improves, you can stop hospice care and are free to return when you need it again.

5. Less pressure on you and your family

It is a huge strain on many families to care for a terminal patient full-time. With hospice care, we give you the expert care you need. This takes pressure off you and your family. We share the burden of caregiving so that your family members are not overwhelmed. And we offer guidance and training so that you and they are confident of the care they give you. This takes so much pressure off you and your family and allows you to be just that…a family.

You don’t have to wait.

Many people think they have to wait until there’s nothing else that can be done. But that’s not true. And you don’t need to wait for your doctor to call us. You, a friend, or a family member are free to call us and see if we have the care you need.

We will work with you and be an advocate for you. Hospice care is about living well with the time you have left. And the sooner you call us, the better you’ll live.

Call Crown Hospice

At Crown Hospice in Cape Girardeau, Missouri, we are here for you. If you have a life-limiting illness with a prognosis of six months or less, call us today at (866) 703-4801 (toll-free) or (573) 335-4800 and speak to one of our caring and professional staff. Your care can begin right away, and you and your family can immediately begin to reap the benefits.

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