Preparing Your Home for a Loved One on Hospice Care

Home Preparation Tips for Hospice Care

There’s nothing easy about watching a loved one enter hospice care, but receiving that care in the comfort of home can help ease the stress and overwhelm. However, before your loved one begins in-home hospice care, it’s a good idea to take a few steps to prepare. Getting your home ready prior to the first day of care goes a long way to minimizing stress and creating a calm space for your loved one. Here’s our guide to preparing your home for a loved one in hospice care.

Why It’s Important to Prepare Early

Hospice care at home is an excellent way to ensure your loved one gets the care they need without having to move into an impersonal facility. At home, they can still take advantage of familiar surroundings and keep as comfortable as possible, even as their condition progresses. Preparing their space for home hospice care is essential, and the right prep can prevent accidents, reduce strain on caregivers, and ensure all the right medical equipment is in place. What’s more, a prepared home is often a more peaceful home for everyone involved.

How to Prepare for In-Home Hospice Care

Preparing to start hospice and home care isn’t as easy as making the bed, but it’s not as hard as you might think, either. Follow these tips for creating a comfortable place for your loved one to receive hospice home care services:

1. Designate a Specific Care Area

Start by choosing a room or designated area where your loved one can rest comfortably while they receive care. Ideally, this space is easily accessible and close to a bathroom. Many families prefer a ground-floor room to avoid stairs, and you’ll want there to be plenty of space for medical equipment. You might also leave room for a chair where caregivers and visiting family members can sit.

2. Add Accessibility Measures Throughout the Home

Simple modifications can make moving around the home much safer. Remove throw rugs, electrical cords, and clutter that could create tripping hazards. You might also rearrange furniture to create wider pathways for walkers, wheelchairs, or medical equipment. Even if your loved one can no longer walk themselves, an accessible space is safer for everyone.

3. Make Sure There’s Enough Lighting

Proper lighting is essential for caregivers to do their jobs safely. Add nightlights in hallways, bedrooms, and bathrooms, and make sure frequently used areas are well-lit. Something as simple as a small lamp can go a long way to keeping the space safer.

4. Adjust Your Layout for Medical Equipment

Hospice care at home means bringing in lots of equipment. You’ll need to make room for a hospital bed, as well as items specific to your loved one’s condition (such as oxygen tanks, mobility aids, and bedside commodes). Before the equipment arrives, clear the room and decide on a rough layout for an easy move-in process.

5. Organize Medications and Medical Supplies

Keeping medications and supplies in one central location makes caregiving all the more efficient. Use labeled containers, organizers, or storage bins for medications, dressings, gloves, and other essentials. While it might seem unnecessary, maintaining an organized system helps reduce confusion and keeps important items within reach.

6. Create a Safe Bathroom Environment

Depending on your loved one’s needs, they may need access to a bathroom. Even if you or another caregiver will be helping transport them, it’s helpful to add grab bars near the toilet. Non-slip mats are also a good idea, especially around the shower and sink.

7. Keep It Calm and Relaxing

Hospice home care services are all about keeping your loved one calm, comfortable, and relaxed. As you prepare your home to begin care, think about how you’ll create that calming environment. Do your best to keep the noise down, and set the thermostat to a comfortable temperature. If you want to go the extra mile, you might even decorate the space with family photos or keepsakes. Don’t underestimate the comfort a small personal touch can bring!

Helping You Create a Comforting Space for Hospice Care

Preparing your home for a loved one on hospice care is about more than making physical adjustments. This process means creating a safe environment where your loved one can live out their remaining time in comfort. At Agape Hospice & Palliative Care, we’re dedicated to helping Los Angeles and Orange County families navigate hospice care. If you have questions about how to begin this level of care, don’t hesitate to reach out to us.

FAQs About Hospice In-Home Care

What Equipment Do I Need for Hospice Care at Home?

The equipment you’ll need varies depending on your loved one’s condition. Common items include hospital beds, wheelchairs, walkers, oxygen equipment, and bedside commodes.

How Can I Make My Home Safer?

The easiest way to make your home safer for both your loved one and their caregivers is to remove any tripping hazards. We also recommend adding plenty of lighting, laying non-slip mats, and clearing clutter from walkways.

Should Hospice Care Be Provided in a Bedroom or Common Area?

The best location depends on your loved one’s needs and preferences. Many families choose a bedroom for privacy, while others prefer a common area that allows for more companionship during this difficult time.

How Can I Support My Loved One in Hospice Care?

If you’re not a primary caregiver, you can still support your loved one. Be there to provide emotional support or help out with daily care tasks where possible. Sometimes just being present makes all the difference.