Circle of Life | Frequently Asked Questions

Hospice Myths

There's many misconceptions about hospice, so let's set it straight.

Myth

Hospice is where you go when there is nothing more a doctor can do.

Hospice is not a place but a philosophy of care providing medical, emotional, and spiritual care focusing on comfort and quality of life.

Myth

Hospice is only for the last days of life.

Hospice patients and families can receive care for six months or longer, depending on the course of the illness. Hospice care is most beneficial when there is sufficient time to manage symptoms and establish a trusting relationship.

Myth

Choosing hospice means giving up hope.

Hospice provides comfort and quality of life when the hope for cure is no longer possible. The hope for living each day to the fullest becomes the focus.

Myth

Good care at the end of life is very expensive.

Medicare beneficiaries pay little or nothing for hospice. Most insurance plans, HMOs and managed care plans include hospice coverage. Circle of Life has programs to care for indigent and uninsured patients.

Myth

You can’t keep your own doctor if you enter hospice.

Hospice physicians work closely with your doctor to determine a plan of care.

Myth

Choosing hospice means giving up all medical treatment.

The reality is that hospice places the patient and family at the center of the care-planning process and provides high-quality pain management and symptom control.

Myth

Hospice only cares for patients in their homes.

Most patients choose to die at home surrounded by their loved ones. Circle of Life cares for patients wherever they call home, including long-term skilled nursing and assisted living facilities or in one of our hospice homes.

Myth

Hospice is just for the elderly.

Hospice serves anyone facing a life-limiting illness, regardless of age.

Myth

Families are not able to care for people with terminal illnesses.

Hospice involves families and offers professional support and training to help them care for their loved ones.

Myth

Hospice care starts when someone is close to dying and ends at death.

The focus of hospice care starts at the time of diagnosis or acute phase of the terminal illness and extends beyond the patient’s death to the family during bereavement. Grief support is open to anyone in the community, whether their loss is a hospice death or not.

Personal Care FAQ's

Personal Care is a unique service you might not know about until you need it. We've answered some of the most common questions!

Do I have to be on hospice to receive care?

No. You do not have to be on hospice. We can provide care for anyone who needs extra help at home—whether it’s with daily activities like dressing, showering, or moving around, or support while recovering from surgery.

Is there a minimum number of hours required?

No. We can provide care starting at just one hour, one day a week, all the way up to 24/7 care. Many clients choose 4–5 hour shifts, several days a week.

Do you conduct background checks?

Yes. All caregivers undergo nationwide criminal and driving background checks.

Care Navigation

We are proud to offer this unique service to help our families. Learn more about it below!

What is Care Navigation?

Care Navigation is a free service that helps individuals and families understand their healthcare options and connect with resources to improve quality of life. It’s especially helpful for those with serious or life-limiting illnesses who may not be ready for hospice care.

Who can benefit from Care Navigation?

Anyone living with a serious illness who needs help managing care, understanding their options, or coordinating services may benefit. Families and caregivers can also receive guidance and support.

Is Care Navigation the same as hospice care?

No. Care Navigation is not hospice. It’s a supportive service that helps individuals before they are ready for hospice. It focuses on education, planning, and connecting people with resources.

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