Support is extended to the patient' s loved ones, as well.
At the center of hospice is the belief that each of us has the right to die pain-free and with dignity, and that our families will receive the necessary support to allow us to do so. The focus is on caring, not curing and, in most cases, care is provided in the patient' s home. Hospice care also is provided in freestanding hospice facilities, hospitals, and nursing homes and other long-term care facilities. Hospice services are available to patients of any age, religion, race, or illness. Typically, a family member serves as the primary caregiver and, when appropriate, helps make decisions for the terminally ill individual.