End of Life Care

Dealing with the transition into the final period of your loved one's life can take not only a tremendous emotional toll but also a financial one. Managing end of life care decisions ahead of time can reduce stress during a difficult time.

Hospice care is typically provided for patients whose life expectancy is fewer than six months and involves palliative care to manage pain. It can be provided at a hospital or a nursing home or at home. Remember that end-of-life care does not necessarily require a change in location for your loved one. The patient may remain in a nursing home or a current medical facility for the remainder of his or her life. Alternatively, some patients choose to pass away in the comfort of their home surrounded by family.

As you determine how to provide end-of-life care for your loved one, it's important to have his or her legal documents accessible to move the process forward as smoothly as possible.