Hospice Care - Elder Care Glossary

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Hospice Care

Hospice care, or palliative care, is end-of-life care provided by health professionals and volunteers who give medical, psychological, and spiritual support and try to control pain and other symptoms so a person can remain as alert and comfortable as possible.[1] The goal of the care is to help people who are dying, or expected to live six months or less, have peace, comfort, and dignity. Hospice programs also provide support services to a patient's family. Hospice care can take place at a patient's home or at a hospice center, hospital or skilled nursing facility.[1]

For More Information

Learn more about hospice and palliative care at Emeritus.

References

1. MedlinePlus. (February 28, 2009) Hospice Care. Retrieved July 3, 2009, from http://www.nlm.nih.gov/medlineplus/hospicecare.html.

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