Simple Guide for Families & Caregivers
Caring for a loved one on hospice can feel overwhelming, especially if you’re not sure what supplies you actually need. The goal of hospice care is comfort, dignity, and peace—and having the right essentials at home can make a big difference.
This guide will walk you through the must-have hospice supplies in a simple and easy way.
🛏️ 1. Comfort & Positioning Supplies
These help prevent discomfort, pain, and skin breakdown.
Hospital bed (adjustable) Pressure-relief mattress or overlay Pillows (lots of them!) Wedges for positioning Soft blankets
💡 Tip: Reposition your loved one every 2–3 hours if they are bed-bound.
🧼 2. Personal Care & Hygiene Supplies
Keeping your loved one clean helps with comfort and dignity.
Disposable gloves Bath wipes / no-rinse cleansers Shampoo caps Towels and washcloths Moisturizing lotion Oral care swabs / mouth moisturizer
💡 Tip: Oral care is especially important when patients stop eating or drinking.
🚽 3. Incontinence Supplies
Many hospice patients lose bladder or bowel control.
Adult briefs (diapers) Bed pads (chux) Waterproof mattress cover Disposable wipes
💡 Tip: Change frequently to prevent skin breakdown.
💊 4. Medication & Symptom Management Supplies
Hospice will often provide medications, but you’ll need basic tools.
Medication organizer Oral syringes or droppers Small cups or spoons Gloves for medication handling
💡 Common meds may include pain relief, anxiety meds, and secretion control.
🩹 5. Skin & Wound Care Supplies
Barrier creams (zinc-based) Foam dressings Gauze and tape Skin prep wipes
💡 Check skin daily for redness or breakdown.
🌬️ 6. Breathing Comfort Supplies
Oxygen (if prescribed) Humidifier Fan
💡 A simple fan can ease shortness of breath.
🍽️ 7. Feeding & Hydration Support
Small cups or sips of water Straws or sponge swabs Easy-to-swallow foods (if tolerated)
💡 Never force food—follow your loved one’s cues.
🧘 8. Emotional & Comfort Items
Favorite blanket Family photos Soft music Religious or spiritual items
💡 Comfort is not just physical—it’s emotional too.
❤️ Final Thoughts
Hospice care is about quality of life, not quantity. Having these essential supplies ready can help you focus on what truly matters—being present with your loved one.
Many home health supplies—including mobility aids, hygiene products, and safety equipment—are designed to support comfort, independence, and dignity at home.
🛒 Helpful Resource for Hospice Supplies
You can explore a wide range of medical and caregiving supplies here:
Leave a Reply