The Growing Need for Quality Hospice Care

The aging Baby Boomer generation is rapidly increasing the population of Americans aged 65 and older. According to the U.S. Census Bureau, this demographic grew by 34% from 43.1 million in 2012 to 57.8 million in 2022. By 2040, this number is projected to reach 78.3 million, and by 2060, an estimated 88.8 million Americans will be 65 or older. (Source: U.S. Census Bureau, 2020 Decennial Census, Population Estimates and Projections)

As this population grows, the demand for high-quality hospice care continues to rise. However, many families face significant challenges in accessing the compassionate, comprehensive care their loved ones need. Too often, patients and their caregivers must navigate complex medical decisions without adequate support.

The Impact of Hospice Care on Patients and Caregivers

With over 20 years of experience as a nursing home administrator and senior living executive, I have seen firsthand how hospice care improves both patient outcomes and caregiver well-being. Hospice is more than comfort care—it is a crucial component of a well-functioning healthcare system. Studies show that hospice services reduce hospitalizations, enhance symptom management, and provide peace of mind to both patients and their families. Yet, access remains inconsistent, leaving many families without the necessary resources to navigate end-of-life care.

Addressing the Hospice Care Coverage Gap

A major issue in the U.S. healthcare system is the gap in hospice care coverage. Many families are forced to rely on emergency rooms and hospitals for symptom management instead of receiving timely, in-home, or community-based hospice services. This lack of access increases caregiver burden and can lead to unnecessary discomfort for patients.

The Caregiver Action Network (CAN) is committed to advocating for caregivers and their loved ones. Every family deserves access to a full spectrum of care, including hospice services that provide pain relief, emotional support, and coordinated care for individuals facing serious illnesses.

Real Caregiver Experiences: The Good and the Challenges

We asked caregivers about their experiences with hospice care, and the responses were overwhelmingly positive. Many shared heartfelt testimonials:

• “My hospice team were angels. I don’t know how I would have survived without them.”
• “They were a godsend when I was taking care of my husband. They weren’t just there for him; they were there for me.”
• “Hospice was a blessing for our family during a challenging time. Their support allowed us to focus on precious moments with our loved one.”​
• “The hospice team provided not only medical care but also emotional support, guiding us through every step.”​
• “Having hospice care meant we were never alone; they were there day and night, ensuring comfort and dignity.”

However, some families reported challenges, including inadequate supervision of hospice providers, administrators prioritizing profits over patient care, and a lack of overnight support for caregivers. Additionally, some caregivers expressed the need for better training on how to move and care for their loved ones.

Key Considerations When Choosing Hospice Care

When selecting a hospice care provider, it is essential to evaluate several key factors to ensure the best possible care for both patients and caregivers:

• Accreditation & Quality Ratings – Look for providers accredited by organizations such as The Joint Commission or the Community Health Accreditation Partner (CHAP).
• Integration with Healthcare Providers – Choose a hospice provider that collaborates with hospitals, skilled nursing facilities, and home health agencies to ensure seamless care transitions.
• Family & Caregiver Support – A strong hospice program should provide comprehensive caregiver training, respite services, and grief counseling.
• Service Availability – Confirm whether hospice services include 24/7 support, emergency visits, and in-home care options.

Expanding Access Through Policy and Advocacy

One critical step in expanding hospice access is addressing the Certificate of Need (CON) process, which regulates new healthcare services. Ensuring that hospice care providers meet community needs is essential for improving access and maintaining high standards of care. This is especially relevant in states with high concentrations of older adults, such as Florida, Arizona, and Pennsylvania, where the demand for hospice care is steadily increasing.

In states like Florida, where nearly 21% of the population is 65 or older, policymakers must prioritize hospice expansion initiatives. By integrating hospice services with broader healthcare networks, such as managed care organizations and accountable care organizations (ACOs), the burden on family caregivers can be reduced significantly.

We have an opportunity to reshape hospice care by prioritizing quality, experience, and innovative care models. Policymakers, healthcare leaders, and advocates must work together to improve hospice services nationwide, ensuring that all families—regardless of location—receive the dignity, support, and compassionate care they deserve.

The Future of Hospice Care: Supporting Patients and Caregivers

Families need hospice care that not only comforts patients but also provides essential support for caregivers. By addressing access gaps, advocating for policy changes, and prioritizing quality care, we can create a healthcare system where every family facing serious illness receives the compassionate support they need.

Join the Movement

Advocate for better hospice care policies and help raise awareness about the importance of expanding access. Together, we can ensure that every patient and caregiver receives the support they deserve in their time of need. Join CAN’s Caregiver Insight Panel to share your caregiver story and lend your voice.

By: Marvell Adams Jr., CEO, Caregiver Action Network