My husband is in the moderate stage of Alzheimers/dementia. When is the appropriate time to begin hospice care?

A lot of people think hospice sends someone to stay at your house, for hours at a time. This is not normally the case. Mac is correct. They normally help set up supplies, Like special beds and diapers, ect and drugs to make things more comfortable for the Pt. Maybe someone to help with bathing a time or so a week ( at least in our area). They normally don't hang out all day to "take over" everyday things or "babysit" the Pt. So I am not sure you would really "get a break" Do you have any friends or family who would be willing to come over for a few hours a week or so? Or church friends? You could call your local ageing council/agency and see what resources they could offer.

A diagnosis of dementia doesn't really qualify one for hospice care unless there are other disease processes at work. One can live for decades with dementia. You do not mention age, but I am assuming, as you are 84, your hubby may be about that age. I think you should consided placement for your husband, because I cannot imagine, even with hospice care, that you can long continue in his care. You would be free then to relax, and to visit when you are able. Certainly you could discuss this with his doctor. He may be willing to order palliative care and hospice.