What is hospice care

Hospice care supports a person whose physician believes the illness is nearing its final months if it follows its usual course. The aim is relief from pain, shortness of breath, nausea, anxiety, and the strain on the people who love the patient. Treatment aimed at curing the illness is no longer the plan.

Hospice is not the same as earlier palliative care. Palliative care can start while treatment of the illness continues. The comparison is on the palliative care and hospice page.

A nurse visits on a schedule and comes when symptoms change. Aides help with bathing and personal care. A social worker helps the family sort roles, supplies, and questions. Medicines that ease symptoms continue. The plan names who to call at night.

In Dallas–Fort Worth, that care usually happens in a house, apartment, assisted living community, or nursing facility. The Richardson office is the base. The cities are listed on the service area page.

Choosing hospice does not mean stopping every medicine. It does not mean the family steps aside. And it does not require waiting for a crisis. A physician still determines eligibility. Families can call with questions before that decision.

If you want the longer picture of visits at home, read what hospice care at home looks like, or send a message through the contact page.