Starting hospice in Los Angeles can feel overwhelming — not just emotionally, but logistically. You might wonder what’s next, who shows up, what changes, and how quickly everything happens.
This guide breaks down the first week of hospice care so you know what to expect, day by day.
Day 1: Admission Visit
Once your loved one is referred to hospice, the process moves fast. On day one, a hospice nurse typically comes to the home to:
- Review the patient’s condition and medications
- Explain how hospice works
- Get consent forms signed
- Start developing a personalized care plan
This visit may take 1–2 hours. After that, the care officially begins.
Day 2–3: Equipment and Medications Arrive
Based on the care plan, hospice staff will arrange for delivery of medical supplies — things like a hospital bed, oxygen, commode, or wheelchair.
Medications for pain, anxiety, or breathing issues will also be delivered, along with instructions on how and when to use them.
Day 3–4: Meet the Hospice Team
You’ll begin meeting other members of the hospice team:
- Home Health Aide – helps with bathing and personal care
- Social Worker – helps with emotional support, planning, and resources
- Chaplain (optional) – provides spiritual support regardless of religion
- Volunteers – may help with companionship or errands
Everyone’s role is to support both the patient and the family.
Day 5–7: Settling In and Adjusting
As the week progresses, you’ll begin to feel the rhythm of hospice care. Nurses visit regularly based on the patient’s needs, and they’re always on-call 24/7 if symptoms worsen.
This is when you might start to feel the relief — knowing help is just a phone call away and you’re not alone anymore.
The Hospice Timeline Doesn’t End After a Week
While this article focuses on the first 7 days, know that hospice care continues as long as it’s needed. Most patients receive care for weeks or months, and the plan can adjust as the situation changes.
Final Thoughts
Starting hospice in Los Angeles isn’t just a medical decision — it’s a deeply human one. That first week sets the tone for everything to come: calm, support, and presence.
Not sure if now is the right time? We’re here to help. Reach out to our hospice team to ask questions and learn more about the process.