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, including a living will and power of attorney (POA), in order to move the process forward as smoothly as possible.

End-of-Life Care Financing

• Government Insurance – Insurance including Medicare and Medicaid is important in funding end-of-life care. Medicare covers individuals ages 65 and older, and Medicaid covers those of any age with limited financial resources.
• Long-Term Care Insurance – Another way of funding end-of-life care is through long-term care insurance, which may include policies that provide more benefits or resources than government insurance does.
• Personal Funds – Personal funds are often needed to help cover medical bills and care payments. If necessary, consider where the money can be taken from ahead of time, whether from investments, Social Security or retirement funds.

End-of-Life Care Resources
Medicare Rights Center
Hospice Foundation of America
National Hospice and Palliative Care Organization