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Senior Services at Wellspring Hospice

Hospice Care in Michigan

“We wish we would have called you sooner...”

It’s something we hear often from people who have lost a loved one. Hospice care is not about the number of days a person has left on this earth; rather, it’s about ensuring the quality of those days. We want this time for you and your loved ones to be filled with comfort, peace and an incredible amount of love.

Even if you think you aren’t ready for this step, we encourage you to reach out and talk with someone on our team who can answer your questions, and help you determine what is best for you and your family.

Why Wellspring for Hospice Care

Wellspring offers hospice to people who are seeking "comfort care" for their illness, rather than "care to cure." A doctor refers patients into hospice. And patients can choose to leave hospice at any point to go back into treatment or if the medical condition improves.

Our caregivers are compassionate listeners who honor the fact that you know your loved one. They want to be your advocate, confidant and friend. Caring for someone you love is one of the hardest (and most rewarding) things you will ever have the opportunity to do. We want to make sure that your time is spent the way you want, while we support you through the rest.

Faith-Based Hospice Care

Our hospice provides compassionate and exemplary care rooted in faith-based principles, motivated by Christ’s love for individuals and families as they face end-of-life decisions together. We understand the importance faith can have when entering hospice and value the option to provide the spiritual guidance and connection our patients may be seeking.

Stories

Meet Jane, Bereavement Coordinator

Jane is a social worker with our hospice program. She has been part of the team since 2001. In that time, she has worked with countless families, supporting them through some of their most difficult days. Take a minute to hear Jane's "best day" at Wellspring.

Meet Betsy, Hospice Nurse

Betsy is a hospice nurse and she shares her heart for serving families in hospice.

Dave and Brenda Sievert’s Story

“Hospice doesn't mean it's the end. It's the beginning of a new stage where every moment matters. And for us, having Wellspring on our side means Dave has the opportunity to do the things he loves – like going on trips and making it to special occasions. Having hospice makes more possible for us.” – Brenda Sievert

Thank you to Dave and Brenda Sievert for sharing your story. We pray it will inspire and encourage others.

Stephanie Rummel's Story

Stephanie Rummel tells about her experience as she was learning about hospice services for her husband, Greg.

When to Consider Hospice

The sooner you or a loved one enter hospice care, the sooner your quality of life can improve. While the decision to enter hospice can be difficult, these are some cues that it may be time to consider it.
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    Desire to focus on quality of life rather than extending amount of time left

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    Severe physical symptoms such as pain, shortness of breath, nausea or vomiting

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    Frequent hospitalizations and emergency room visits

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    Frequent or recurring infections

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    Frequent or recurring falls

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    Less interest in eating, leading to significant weight loss

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    Rapid decline in health over past six months, even with aggressive medical treatments

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    Decreasing alertness, withdrawal, increased sleeping or mental confusion

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    Extreme difficulty performing daily tasks, such as walking, using the bathroom, personal cleaning or getting dressed

Also, it’s worth noting that you or your loved one can leave hospice at any time. Some do so because their condition stabilizes, others because they want to try treatments again. Hospice can also be re-entered as needed.


Who is Eligible for Hospice?

Hospice care is covered by many insurance providers, as well as Medicare. To qualify for hospice Medicare (Medicare Part A and Medicare Advantage (Part C)), your doctor (if you have one) and a hospice doctor must certify that you have 6 months or less to live. By electing hospice, you also agree to seek comfort care instead of care to cure your illness. You can choose to leave hospice at any point to go back into treatment or if your condition improves.

To receive Hospice through Wellspring, you must reside in Michigan in one of the following:
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    Bay County

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    Genesee County

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    Lapeer County

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    Saginaw County

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    Sanilac County

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    Tuscola County

What Hospice Can Assist With

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    Physician care in the home

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    On-site nursing at home or facility

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    Medications for symptom and pain control

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    Physical, occupational and speech therapy

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    Medical supplies and equipment

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    Caregiver support and training

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    Nutritional counseling

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    Assistance with personal hygiene and light housekeeping

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    Spiritual care, bereavement and grief counseling services for all ages

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    Volunteer services for companionship and respite for families

Hospice FAQs

How much does hospice cost?

Medicare, veterans benefits, Medicaid and many insurance plans cover hospice with little or no out-of-pocket costs. Contact us and we can help you understand your hospice care benefits and guide your decision.

How long can we have hospice care?

Typically, hospice care is for six months or less, but it can be extended beyond six months.

Considering Hospice?