Choosing the right setting for hospice care is an important decision for individuals and their families facing end-of-life needs. Understanding the differences between hospice care in a facility and hospice care at home can help you make an informed choice that best meets your unique needs and preferences.

Let’s explore the distinctions between these two options…

Hospice Setting in a Facility

• Hospice care provided in a facility, such as a hospice center, hospital, or skilled nursing facility, offers a dedicated environment specifically designed to provide end-of-life care and support.
• In a facility setting, individuals receive round-the-clock medical supervision, access to specialized equipment and resources, and comprehensive care from a multidisciplinary team of healthcare professionals, including physicians, nurses, social workers, and spiritual counselors.
• Facility-based hospice care may be appropriate for individuals with complex medical needs, symptoms that require intensive management, or those who prefer the support of a structured environment with 24-hour staffing and specialized services.
• While facility-based hospice care can offer a high level of medical expertise and support, some individuals may feel more comfortable and at ease in familiar surroundings, such as their own homes.

Hospice at Home

• Hospice care provided at home allows individuals to receive end-of-life care in the comfort and familiarity of their residence, surrounded by loved ones and personal belongings.
• Home-based hospice care emphasizes personalized, family-centered support, with a focus on enhancing quality of life and promoting dignity and comfort.
• In a home setting, individuals have the flexibility to maintain their daily routines, preferences, and autonomy, with the assistance of a hospice team that visits regularly to provide medical care, symptom management, emotional support, and assistance with activities of daily living.
• Home-based hospice care may be preferred by individuals who wish to remain in a familiar and supportive environment, maintain close connections with family and friends, and have greater control over their end-of-life experience.
• While home-based hospice care offers many benefits, ensures that the home environment is safe, accessible, and conducive to providing high-quality care. Families may need to make adjustments to the home environment or access additional support services to meet the individual’s needs effectively.

The difference between hospice care in a facility and hospice care at home lies in the setting and approach to care delivery. Both options aim to provide compassionate end-of-life care and support, tailored to the individual’s needs and preferences. By understanding the distinctions between these two settings, individuals and their families can make an informed decision that honors their wishes and promotes comfort, dignity, and peace during the end-of-life journey.