Hospice

What is hospice

Hospice is a concept of caring derived from medieval times, symbolizing a place where travelers, pilgrims, and the sick, wounded or dying could find rest and comfort. Today, hospice offers comfort to people as they near the end of life's journey.  

What is hospice?

It is primarily a concept of care, not a specific place of care. 

• Treats the physical, emotional and spiritual needs of patients

• Takes place in the patient's home, or in a home-like setting

• Concentrates on managing pain and so they can make the most of the time that remains to them

• Considers support of family members an essential part of its mission

• Believes the quality of life to be as important as the length of life

• Involves the family is in making decisions and in helping a person they love

• Enables people with terminal illnesses to make decisions about how and where they want to spend the rest of their lives

Care can be provided in several settings

Home is the usual care setting. A family member or friend assumes the role of primary caregiver. He or she receives support from hospice personnel. Hospice can also provide care to patients in a hospital, free-standing independent facility or nursing home. 

• About Mercy Hospice

• The hospice concept

• The hospice team

• Frequently asked questions

• Bereavement

• Volunteer 

• Contact us

• A nurse's calling

• A different kind of volunteer
  

• Mercy Health Library

• Advance directives