People sometimes perceive hospice and palliative care as a neglect, but these vital services actually offer life-affirming benefits in difficult times. Let’s take a look at how former President Jimmy Carter’s decision to opt for hospice care at his Georgia ranch exemplifies a shift in understanding. Instead of enduring more hospitalizations and aggressive treatments, Carter prioritized comfort and took advantage of meaningful moments with his wife of 77 years and enjoying his favorite treat, peanut butter ice cream.
Choosing hospice does not mean abandoning medical care, but rather focusing on finding comfort in the care you receive. It’s about having the freedom to be at home with your loved ones, enjoying your favorite shows, your meals, and the company of your pets, instead of being confined to a hospital. It’s an opportunity to paint a picture of what you want the end of life to be like and make decisions that align with your values.
To better understand your options, it is important to differentiate between hospice and palliative care. Palliative care aims to provide symptom relief and support to people who are seriously ill at any stage, not just at the end of life. It can be combined with curative treatments and offers an additional layer of support for patients, families and the healthcare team. Hospice, on the other hand, focuses on making the dying process more comfortable for people with serious illnesses, often those with a life expectancy of six months or less.
Palliative care can be provided at home or in a hospital unit, dedicated facility, or nursing home, depending on the level of support needed. The palliative care team ensures that patients have the necessary equipment, medications and support around the clock when needed. They take a holistic approach, addressing physical, spiritual, emotional and social pain to support patients as whole individuals.
Research has shown that palliative care can prolong life and improve overall well-being. By incorporating palliative care alongside cancer treatment, patients have experienced longer survival times, better symptom management, and improved quality of life. However, aggressive medical care near the end of life remains common, often due to a combination of hope for a miracle, fear, and uncertainty. Engaging in discussions about living well and understanding personal values can help people make informed decisions that prioritize comfort and quality of life.
One of the greatest benefits of palliative care is the ability to focus on personal priorities. The palliative care team works with patients to understand their wishes and supports them in achieving their goals, whether that means attending important family milestones or simply enjoying everyday activities. Creating meaningful memories and engaging in conversations that conclude life’s journey can be deeply healing.
If you or a loved one has been predicted to live six months or less, it is advisable to consider palliative care. It is essential to have open conversations with the care team, ask about enrollment procedures, seek recommendations from others who have experienced hospice, and contact a hospice agency for more information. It is also essential to evaluate the layout and equipment needs of your home. Remember, accepting palliative care is not a failure, but rather the beginning of a new chapter in life, and there are experienced professionals available to support you through this process.
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