The last stages of hospice care focus on providing comfort and support during the dying process. While the dying process can vary from person to person, the following are common signs and symptoms that may occur during the last stages of hospice:
- Decreased consciousness and responsiveness
- Changes in breathing patterns, such as shallow breathing or pauses in breathing
- Changes in skin color, temperature, and texture
- Decreased appetite and thirst
- Increased sleepiness and fatigue
- Increased pain and discomfort
- Decreased urine output
- Delirium or confusion
- Emotional and spiritual distress
During the last stages of hospice, the hospice team provides a range of support services, including pain and symptom management, emotional and spiritual support, and counseling for the patient and their loved ones. The hospice team also supports your loved ones after they pass away.
The goal of hospice care during the last stages is to provide comfort, dignity, and peace to the patient and their loved ones during this difficult time.
