California Hospice Care

California's sunny state offers miles of sandy beaches, rolling mountains, and pleasant weather all year, making it a popular retirement destination. This popular U.S. state ranks first in the nation in several categories, including access to health care, crime rates, local air quality, the number of public libraries, parks, and public transportation options.

For those who require assistance with daily activities, over 7,400 assisted living facilities are available. Assisted living costs several hundred dollars more than the national average for seniors who require long-term residential care, at $5,250.

Those who require hospice care in California for dementia patients at home may also opt for hospice services in various settings. This includes their own home or apartment, a residential care facility, a congregate living facility, or a skilled nursing facility. The California Department of Social Services approves Skilled Nursing Facilities to provide such care. 

Read on to know more about the cost of California hospice care, the qualifications for eligibility, and tips on finding proper hospice care facilities in California.

Cost Of Hospice Care In California 

One in every four hospice patients sought care in their final five days of life; and

Medicare-covered 82% of hospice care, which costs an average of $6,500 per patient in California. Below is a chart of California hospice care as of 2021:

Who Qualifies For Hospice Care In California?

Hospice care in California is available for those who need it under a few conditions depending on the stage of dementia the senior or patient is in. Moreover, coverage for hospice care depends on your medical insurance, whether Medicare, Medical/Medicaid, or Veterans Affairs VA, among other options. 

Qualifying for hospice care in California requires you or your loved one with dementia to meet the following criteria:

• Possess coverage under Medicare Part A? (Hospital Insurance)
• The patient's primary care physician and hospice physician must certify that you are terminally ill, with a prognosis of 6 months or less.
• The patient is under instruction to forego curative care.

Tips To Get Hospice Care In California

Finding a good hospice care provider can be a difficult task. Nurses, therapists, caregivers, doctors, and other staff will be present in your home to care for your loved ones. It is critical to find a reliable, compassionate, and knowledgeable home care provider. Here are a few tips before you book a hospice care provider for your loved ones.

• Be thorough and know what services are covered. 
• Select a hospice care provider than has 24/7 staffing.
• Always ask for a recommendation or referral from medical professionals or home care agencies.
• Look into their license and accreditation before availing of their service.
• Check if they are privately owned or franchised– this will tell the kind of experience the hospice care providers have, and if it suits the type of care, you're looking for.

Taking the time to get the best California hospice care for seniors in your family that have dementia can be tricky. In a busy and frequently oversaturated state like California, finding hospice care or dementia care providers that fit your loved one's needs can delay the search. 

However, remember that hospice care in California is available for those who need it under a few conditions depending on the stage of dementia the senior or patient is in. To learn more about night care for dementia patients or the best practices for those who already have in-home dementia care, read through our blogs at Senior Strong to get a better grasp.