Stage 1: What’s Happening? — Recognizing a Major Change in the Illness

When a loved one is living with a terminal or life-limiting illness, the earliest signs of decline can be confusing, subtle, and emotionally overwhelming. Families often begin this journey noticing changes they cannot fully explain—more medical complications, sudden weakness, new symptoms, loss of appetite, difficulty breathing, or increased time in bed. They may be unsure if these changes are “normal,” part of the disease progression, or indicators that their loved one is nearing the final stage of life.

This early stage is filled with questions such as:
“Is this still treatable?”
“What should we expect now?”
“Who can guide us through these decisions?”

Silverado Hospice helps families understand what a life-limiting illness looks like clinically and emotionally. We explain the difference between curative treatment, palliative care, and hospice care, and we help families understand the signs that a transition to comfort-focused care may be appropriate. Our team provides educational resources on common indicators of terminal decline, prognosis communication, and how to begin discussing goals of care with physicians, specialists, and family members.

This stage is rooted in clarity—bringing understanding, compassion, and direction to families who are just beginning to recognize the shift toward end-of-life care.