Hospice Care FAQ
We know you have many questions. Let’s find the answers together.
At Alderwood, we believe that the best care happens when families feel prepared, supported, and heard. While these questions might not cover everything you might be wondering, we hope they provide a helpful starting point as you navigate this chapter.
What is hospice care?
Hospice is specialized care focused on comfort, dignity, and quality of life for patients facing a life-limiting illness. It supports the whole family — physically, emotionally, and spiritually — wherever home is.
Does planning for hospice care mean giving up hope?
No, not at all. Hospice redefines hope for each patient and family. Where a patient may have once hoped for a cure, they now hope to live their final months pain-free, surrounded by friends and loved ones. Hope can be as simple as wanting to remain at home rather than making frequent trips to a hospital. Or it can provide opportunities for lost relatives to reconnect, old wounds to heal, and forgiveness to be extended. Hope may look different in hospice care, but it is not lost.
Who can refer someone for hospice care?
Anyone can make a referral — patients, family members, friends, social workers, clergy, or physicians. Alderwood coordinates with the patient’s physician to confirm hospice eligibility and begin care.
Is hospice care only for people with cancer?
No. Hospice is available for any life-limiting illness — heart disease, lung disease, dementia, kidney failure, ALS, stroke, and others. Eligibility is based on a doctor’s prognosis, not a specific diagnosis.
Does hospice care mean death will come sooner?
No. Research consistently shows that hospice care does not shorten life — and many patients live longer than expected once symptoms and stress are managed.
If I choose hospice care, will I have to leave my home?
No. Most hospice care is delivered wherever you call home — your house, an assisted living facility, or a nursing home. Inpatient care at Hinkle House is available when symptoms require closer support, but staying at home is always the default.
Is hospice care only for the elderly?
No. Hospice serves patients of any age — infants through adults — who are living with a life-limiting illness. Pediatric and adult care plans are tailored to each patient’s needs.
Is hospice care expensive?
Hospice is covered by Medicare, Medicaid, and most private insurance plans — typically at 100% with no out-of-pocket cost to the family. Alderwood will verify your coverage and walk you through any financial questions before care begins.
