Many people believe the right time to contact hospice arrives when an individual is coping with the final stages of a life-limiting illness. While it is true that Delaware Hospice provides many services during this significant time, we provide help and resources long before.

Serious illnesses such as heart disease, stroke, Alzheimer’s disease, cancer, Parkinson’s disease, liver and lung disease, and kidney failure slowly decrease an individual’s ability to live life to its fullest. Often, the illness can drain one’s energy and spirit, and prevent individuals from managing their basic needs. Further, the progression of these illnesses can overwhelm family members as they attempt to juggle so many new responsibilities, often with little community, spiritual and social support. During this time, our Transitions program refers individuals and their families to resources and support during the year or months preceding hospice care.

The Transitions program is offered at no cost to individuals and families coping with a life-limiting illness. One Transitions coordinator said, “We often hear from individuals and their caregivers that wish they had known about our services earlier in their illness. They are amazed that we can customize the level of support, depending on their needs, at no charge.”