Common Illnesses

Most Common Illnesses Facing Hospice Patients

Hospice Specialists of Louisiana has helped patients and their families who have struggled with the following diseases as well as many others. It’s important that your hospice provider understands your disease and knows how to deal with the common issues facing patients with such illnesses. When we help your loved one with a serious illness, it won’t be the first time we work through the disease.

Cancer:

Many hospice patients have some form of cancer. Because of the often-progressive nature of this disease, many cancer patients eventually require end-of-life care.

Heart Disease:

This includes conditions like congestive heart failure and coronary artery disease. These patients often experience a gradual decline in their health status.

Dementia and Alzheimer's Disease:

Patients with advanced dementia or Alzheimer's may need hospice care as their cognitive and physical capacities decline.

Chronic Obstructive Pulmonary Disease (COPD) and Other Respiratory Diseases:

As these conditions progress, patients may experience significant difficulty breathing, leading to a decrease in quality of life and potential eligibility for hospice care.

Kidney Disease:

End-stage renal disease, especially when the patient is not eligible for or declines dialysis, often leads to hospice care.

Liver Disease:

End-stage liver disease, including cirrhosis and hepatitis, can lead to a need for hospice care.

Neurological Diseases:

This category includes conditions like Parkinson's disease and multiple sclerosis. In their advanced stages, these diseases may require the support of hospice care.

Stroke:

Severe strokes can lead to significant impairment and a need for end-of-life care.