Geriatrics Nursing, Gerontology and Aging

Hospice Care

Hospice care is mostly aimed at patients who have been diagnosed with a terminal illness whose doctor believes he or she has 6 months or less to live if the illness runs its natural course & provides them a dignified, pain-free death. Hospice is an approach to care, so it is not tied to a specific place. It can be offered in two types of settings: at home or in a facility such as a nursing home, hospital, or even in a separate hospice center.

Hospice care brings together a team of people that includes nurses, doctors, social workers, spiritual advisors, and trained volunteers. Everyone works together to provide the medical, emotional, and spiritual support needed. A member of the hospice team visits regularly, and someone is always available by phone-24 hours a day, 7 days a week.