Today hospice refers to a concept of compassionate care for people in the final phase of an incurable illness. If you have a life expectancy of 6 months or less, hospice or home health care may be a better choice for your care than a hospital. Also, if your family or friends can no longer look after you at home, you might want to consider hospice. Usually referrals to hospice are made by your primary physician. Referrals can also be made by family, friends, clergy, or other health care professionals.
Hospice seeks neither to hasten nor postpone death.
The emphasis is on quality of life and dignity. Hospice recognizes not only your physical needs by controlling pain, but also your social, emotional, and spiritual needs. Hospice hopes to prepare you for a peaceful death at home or in a homelike setting. Treating the whole person Hospice includes you and your entire family as the unit of care. You and your family are directly involved in making decisions.