My wife has 3 months to live and I work. What services are available for her care?

If you live in a close-knit community pick up that phone and reach out while hospice care and other services come through. Don't forget relatives. Also, look for bereavement support groups in your area. They might connect you with services a lot quicker and give you strength after the eye of the storm has passed you by. Wish you the best.

-- ED

Hospice services are wonderful but they do not cover caregivers to be there while you work. However many Hospice services have an inpatient facility and since you wife has only a few months she should qualify to be in one. My heart is with you.

Hospice services are a godsend of a service that will come in and help with any advice, comfort, meds and pyshical needs. My heart goes out to you...be strong...!

Hospice cares will be paid for by medicare if she has this. They are very helpful in these situations

I am sorry to read of your situation. I'll share my experiences with you and hope you can glean something that's useful. Without a bit more info it's hard to know where to start. Is your wife in a hospital now? If yes, please contact the social services office and put this question to them. They can connect you with all kinds of services to help you, your wife and your family.

Payment for her care will depend on your insurance. Contact your agent to understand if palliative (basically keeping the patient comfortable) or hospice care are covered. If she's been working and is insured, she may have some coverage or it could include short term disability since she can't return to work. Example: My uncle was diagnosed with inoperable lung cancer and with no way to predict how long he'd have. He was declared disabled and received about $1200 per month for 5 months before passing away. Due to COBRA his health insurance was paid by his employer for 6 months after the disability declaration. This also meant his life insurance was still in effect at the time of his passing. So - "disability" might come through her employer or social security - you'll have to talk with each to understand what's possible. Her employer might also make use of the family leave to keep her insured but not pay her wages. A friend is currently retaining her medical insurance this way as she deals with terminal stomach cancer. Though, her participation in life insurance ended when her family leave started.

If you don't have insurance, medicare or medicaide are options, depending on your income. Again, the social services at your local hospital, hospice or your local Area Agency on Aging can help you understand those qualifications. Medicaide is paid through your state, generally the department of health and welfare, and is intended for low income patients. Medicare is intended for folks over 62 or 65, depending on your birth year.

I would also encourage you to contact your local hospice care provider(s). They are usually very kind and respectful in these situations. They can give you advice, recommendations and provide care for your wife. Hospice is also set up to handle various scenarios - care in your home, in a rehab center or a specialized hospice facility.

Best regards to you and your family.