United States hospice organizations see patient increase

(KERO) — More families are taking in terminally ill loved ones rather than having to say goodbye to them at a hospital or nursing home.

National hospice organizations say facilities are reporting big increases in the number of patients being cared for at home. One facility in Maryland said it has seen up to a 40-percent spike in demand for home care.

Hospice organization officials say it's likely because people are home more now and able to take on the responsibility. Many people also feel unsafe visiting hospitals right now.