Wondering what hospice does not tell you?
The word “hospice” brings up a lot of emotions and thoughts.
When people hear the term, they often think “the last days of life.”
That’s partly true — hospice is a form of specialized care for patients facing life-limiting illnesses. But that doesn’t capture the full depth and scope of care that hospice really offers.
Here at Envision Hospice, we’re committed to providing comprehensive care and services that are designed not only for end-of-life care but also for enhancing patients’ quality of life and supporting families every step of the hospice journey.
What Hospice Does Not Tell You: Unveiling the Truth
Many patients and their families have misconceptions about hospice care that can overshadow the heart of hospice care. Let’s talk about what hospice really is and explore the spectrum of services hospice providers offer.
Myth #1: Hospice Care Is Just for the Last Few Days of Life
*Reality: Hospice Supports Patients Throughout Their Remaining Days
When you hear “hospice care,” you might think mostly of the last several days of life. But actually, hospice supports patients and their loved ones throughout their remaining days. Typically, hospice provides services to patients facing life-limiting illnesses with a life expectancy of six months or less. Whenever the focus shifts from curative treatment to quality-of-life care, it’s a good time to reach out to a hospice provider (like Envision Hospice). During this time, hospice care meets the medical, emotional, and spiritual needs of patients and their loved ones. Understanding what hospice does not tell you can help patients access care when it’s needed.
Hospice isn’t only for the last few days of life. Here at Envision, our services are designed to help patients spend their remaining time (whether it’s months, weeks, or days) in the way that matters most to them — with dignity, comfort, and peace.
Myth #2: Hospice Care Means Stopping Treatment
*Reality: Hospice Care Is All About Quality of Life
Does hospice mean that you stop all treatment? It actually doesn’t. It’s true that during hospice, patients don’t pursue treatments to cure their condition (like chemotherapy, for instance). What hospice does NOT tell you is that you have to stop comfort care! Hospice treatments focus on relieving symptoms, managing pain, and improving a patient’s quality of life. There are many medicines, treatments, integrative therapies, and forms of emotional and spiritual support to provide this care.
Myth #3: Hospice Services Are the Same for Everyone
*Reality: Hospice Care Is Personalized to an Individual’s Needs
When it comes to healthcare, one size DOESN’T fit all! Quality hospice care (like the services at Envision Hospice) is highly customized and always adapts to meet the unique needs and wishes of each patient. From adjusting medications for more comfort and pain control to tailoring a care plan that fits a patient’s wishes and beliefs, our team is committed to providing care that meets their individual needs and enhances their quality of life.
The Emotional Journey: What Hospice Does Not Tell You
Hospice care can be a very emotional time — both for patients and their loved ones. But it can also be a powerful opportunity to make memories together. It’s difficult to overemphasize the importance of emotional support during hospice. Our team (including spiritual care coordinators, if desired) can help people process their feelings and support them as they grieve.
Myth #4: Hospice Support Is Just for Patients
*Reality: Families Also Get Valuable Support!
Did you know that hospice offers support for families as well as patients?
Caring for a loved one facing a life-limiting illness can be exhausting, overwhelming, and emotionally draining. Caregiver burnout is real.
As a caregiver to a loved one nearing the end of their life, sometimes it becomes too much.
Envision Hospice understands that patients’ loved ones need support as well. That’s why we offer caregiver support services (including respite care) to provide much-needed breaks and bereavement support to help you in the grieving process.
We provide care in whatever setting is best for the patient: in the comfort of your own home, an assisted living facility, or a nursing home. Our team works with your circumstances to relieve the burden of caregiving — and allow patients and loved ones to focus on making the most of their time together.
A Different Perspective About What Hospice Does Not Tell You
Hospice care isn’t just preparing for life’s end — it’s maximizing each moment. It’s about dignity, support, and prioritizing quality of life. We hope that by shedding light on what hospice does not tell you (and correcting misconceptions!) you can have clarity as you consider this process.
Here at Envision Hospice, we’re committed to providing world-class care and support to patients and their loved ones. In life’s final chapter, we’re here to help make each day as meaningful as possible.
Still have questions about hospice care? We’re here for you. Our team at Envision Hospice would love to help you get the answers you need as you consider your hospice options.