Hospice care is a type of end-of-life care, but it is not exclusively for patients who are actively dying. Hospice care is intended for individuals with a terminal illness and a life expectancy of six months or less, regardless of how close they are to death.

Hospice care is typically provided in the patient’s home, a hospice facility, or a nursing home. It may include various services, such as pain management, symptom control, emotional and spiritual support, and bereavement counseling. The hospice team works closely with the patient and their family to develop a care plan that meets their needs and goals and provides ongoing support and guidance throughout the hospice care process.

It’s important to note that hospice care is not intended to cure the underlying illness or extend the patient’s life but to improve the quality of life for the patient and their family during this difficult time. Hospice care can provide comfort, dignity, and peace of mind to the patient and their loved ones and help ensure that the patient’s final days are as comfortable and meaningful as possible.