Myths & Facts about Hospice

Fact: Hospice is for any individual in an end of life situation, regardless of diagnosis. Cypress Hospice works with individuals over the age of 18 who may have up to six months to celebrate life’s journey.

Fact: Hospice is a philosophy of care that encompasses many services which include pain management, spiritual guidance and support; as well as grief and bereavement support. Cypress Hospice works with an individual’s doctors, caregivers and loved ones to develop a personalized care plan that honors the dignity of the individual.

Hospice care may take place in an individual’s home, at a care facility, or wherever makes the most sense for the individual and their loved ones.

Fact: Hospice offers supportive services to help an individual enjoy and embrace life to the fullest. Sometimes continuing current treatment can impede the quality of life. Hospice care helps to relieve uncertainty and enhance personal choice, dignity and focused moments with friends and family.

Fact: Hospice can be recommended for individuals who are experiencing an end of life situation. This means that hospice can be called for a young or older person with a life-threatening illness or recommended by a doctor or family member simply when they feel it’s time to seek support and comfort in preparing to celebrate life’s final moments.

Fact: Just like receiving hospice care is not about giving up, it’s also not only reserved for the last few days of an individual’s life. In fact, when possible, care can begin when life expectancy is around six months. This allows the hospice team and the individual’s doctors to develop a plan of care that can address any needs or medical concerns.

Occasionally in long term hospice care, conditions may improve. In these cases, the individual may be discharged from hospice and re-admitted at a later time.

Overall, hospice is really about living every day to its fullest. Whether an individual and their family needs medication management, social support, or even just a hand to hold, hospice helps provide care and support during times of uncertainty.