How Do You Want to Live?

Posted in Hospice

When most people hear the word hospice, they often think it’s about dying. But for those who work in the field every day, hospice is about something much deeper: living well, even at the end of life.

At Home Health & Hospice Care, one of the first questions asked of every new patient isn’t about symptoms or medications. It’s: “How do you want to live?” That question reframes the entire experience of hospice, reminding patients and families that the focus is not on the end—but on how they want to spend the time they have left.

Understanding What Hospice Really Means

Hospice care provides holistic support—physical, emotional, and spiritual—for individuals with a life-limiting illness and a prognosis of six months or less. However, many people are surprised to learn that patients can be on hospice longer, depending on their condition, and in some cases, studies have shown that hospice care may even improve life expectancy.

The goal is comfort, not cure—managing pain and symptoms so patients can focus on what brings them joy, meaning, and peace. This shift allows individuals to regain a sense of control and to make choices aligned with their values and wishes.

More Than Medical Support

While hospice includes clinical care, it often goes far beyond that. At HHHC, for example, care may include pet therapy, music or Reiki, emotional and spiritual counseling, and even a patient wish program that helps make meaningful moments happen. These offerings help patients stay connected to the people, activities, and memories that matter most.

Hospice also supports families—providing education, respite care, and bereavement services so they feel prepared and supported throughout the journey.

Anyone Can Ask About Hospice

One common misconception is that a physician referral is required to start the hospice process. That’s not the case. Anyone—whether a patient, caregiver, or family member—can contact a hospice provider to ask questions or request an eligibility evaluation.

If hospice seems like the right fit, the provider will assess the patient and collaborate with their primary care doctor to move forward. Importantly, patients must elect to stop curative treatments—not because they’re giving up, but because they’re choosing to focus on comfort and quality of life.

What Does That Look Like?

For many patients, “living well” means small but meaningful things: enjoying favorite meals, staying involved in their faith community, creating memories with family, or simply avoiding frequent trips to hospitals and emergency rooms. Hospice gives people the space to focus on those priorities instead of medical interventions that may no longer align with their goals.

You Have Choices

In southern New Hampshire, patients have multiple hospice providers to choose from. Each one offers different services and approaches, so it’s worth researching and asking questions. Medicare.gov allows families to compare providers, and most hospices welcome calls or visits for more information.

Cost Shouldn’t Be a Barrier

Hospice care is typically fully covered by Medicare, Medicaid, and most private insurance plans. We also offer subsidized care for those who are uninsured or underinsured. At HHHC, the belief is simple: Everyone deserves a good end of life, regardless of financial situation.