Navigating serious illness can be overwhelming. Two terms you'll likely encounter are hospice and palliative care. While both focus on improving quality of life, they differ significantly.
Palliative care provides relief from the symptoms and stress of a serious illness, regardless of the stage or prognosis. It can be received alongside curative treatments. Think of it as an extra layer of support, helping you manage pain, fatigue, and emotional distress.
Hospice care, on the other hand, is a specialized type of palliative care for individuals with a terminal illness and a prognosis of six months or less. It focuses on comfort and dignity in the final stages of life. Curative treatments are typically no longer pursued. Hospice provides comprehensive support, including medical care, emotional support, and spiritual guidance for both the patient and their family.
Knowing the difference between hospice vs. palliative care empowers you to make informed decisions about your care and find the most appropriate support for your needs.
