What is Hospice Care?

Hospice care is a holistic approach to end-of-life care that aims to improve the quality of life for patients with life-limiting illnesses and their families. It provides comprehensive physical, emotional, social, and spiritual support, tailored to the patient's needs and wishes. By focusing on comfort and quality of life, rather than cure, hospice care can help patients live their final days with dignity and peace.

Hospice care is based on the philosophy that  

• Each person has the right to die pain-free and with dignity 

• Their families should receive the necessary support to allow them to do so 

Hospice care involves: 

•  Physical management 

• Managing patient's symptoms to ensure they are as comfortable as possible  

• Emotional support 

• Fear 

• Anxiety

• Grief 

• Bereavement care often continues for the family following the patient's death

• Social support 

• Help patients maintain their relationships and stay connected with their loved ones            

• Helping the patient maintain their independence for as long as possible 

• Providing opportunities for meaningful social interactions 

• Spiritual care 

Recognizing that each person has their own unique spiritual needs and beliefs

In conclusion, hospice care is a specialized form of medical care that focuses on improving the quality of life for patients who are facing a life-limiting illness, and their families. It is a comprehensive approach that includes physical, emotional, social, and spiritual support, tailored to the patient's needs and wishes.