When you hear the word “hospice,” what comes to mind? For many, they view hospice as giving up, care only in the final days of life, something for just older individuals, or care that no longer includes medical treatment. This is far from reality. Hospice isn’t about giving up. It’s about care that puts comfort, clarity, and quality of life first. Hospice helps people and families feel supported during one of life’s hardest times. It’s not less care; it’s the right care. Following are eight common myths surrounding hospice care.
MYTH #1: Hospice is only for the last few days of life.
Fact: Hospice can support patients for several months before a person passes away. Getting care earlier can bring more comfort, support, and peace of mind.
MYTH #2: Hospices is only for older adults.
Fact: Hospice care is for people of all ages, even children, who have a serious illness.
MYTH #3: You can’t receive any medical care in hospice.
Fact: Patients in hospice still get medicine, equipment, and medical help to manage pain and feel more comfortable.
MYTH #4: Hospice is a physical place.
Fact: Most hospice care happens at home, wherever “home” is, with support for both the patient and their family.
MYTH #5: Families are left to figure out everything on their own.
Fact: Hospice also supports families with emotional, spiritual, and practical help. This includes 24/7 support, grief counseling, and ongoing support for at least 13 months after their loved one’s passing.
MYTH #6: Hospice means giving up hope.
Fact: Hospice focuses on quality of life — enhancing comfort and dignity. It’s not about giving up; rather it is a redirection of care from disease-focused to patient-focused.
MYTH #7: Hospice hastens death.
Fact: Hospice neither speeds up nor delays death. The goal is comfort and dignity. In fact, studies show that some people live longer under hospice care due to effective symptom control and reduced stress.
MYTH #8: Once you choose hospice, you can’t leave it.
Fact: Patients can revoke hospice at any time if they wish to pursue curative treatments again or if their condition improves.
At Community Nursing Services, we take great pride in helping patients and families navigate through an emotional and difficult time with compassion, understanding, and care. Each person’s journey is different, and so is their care. We make sure our care meets more than physical needs, including emotional, cultural, and spiritual needs. That’s what whole-person care looks like. Click here to learn more about CNS’s Hospice services.