Navigating hospice vs palliative care: Embracing quality of life at every stage

Caring for your loved ones during their final stages of life can be an incredibly challenging experience. It's often the most difficult part of the dying process for family, friends and caregivers. You may feel helpless, wishing you could make their journey easier and more comfortable, however there are just some things in this life that are beyond our control.

However, there is something you do have control over and that is to ensure their comfort and well-being during their final days, months or years.

Finding the right hospice service or palliative care facility can play a crucial role in providing them with a restful, warm and positive end-of-life experience.

Who is hospice care for?

Hospice care is suitable for individuals with a life expectancy of approximately 6 months. It is a form of care designed for short-term needs.

Hospice care is best for those who prefer to remain at home during their final days or months. A nurse will regularly visit the patient to ensure their comfort. In this type of care, day-to-day responsibilities are primarily handled by the family and friends, and medical treatments are usually discontinued.

Who is palliative care for?

Palliative care is most appropriate for those who require additional assistance in their day-to-day activities and prefer not to spend their final moments at home. Typically, palliative care is provided in dedicated facilities or aged care homes, where staff work around the clock to support and care for the patient.

The goal of palliative care is to create a supportive and comforting environment for the dying, offering them a sense of community in their final days. This can alleviate the feeling of isolation and provide the family with the support of professionally trained caregivers during this challenging time.

Unlike hospice care, individuals in a palliative care facility may still undergo treatments to prolong their life. It's a decision that depends entirely on the individual and their family, whether to continue or discontinue treatment during this period.

Which option is better: hospice care or palliative care?

Unfortunately, there is no simple answer to this question. Choosing the most suitable care method for your loved one depends on their specific needs, preferences and the guidance of their care team. Here are some questions to consider when deciding between hospice and palliative care:

Can the individual be cared for at home?

• If yes, hospice care may be considered. They can receive care at home, with regular visits from a hospice nurse to ensure their comfort.
• If no, palliative care is a better option. They can move into a dedicated facility that can provide all the necessary support during their final stages of life.

Do they require 24/7 support from medical professionals and nurses?

• If yes, palliative care is recommended. At a palliative care facility, they will receive dedicated support from nurses and doctors around the clock.
• If no, hospice care can be considered. Most day-to-day care will be provided by loved ones rather than medical professionals  

Do they want to pass away at home?

• If yes, hospice care can be considered, as long as 24/7 care from a nurse or doctor is not required.
• If no, palliative care may be a suitable option.

Will treatment be continued?

• If yes, palliative care should be considered. They can continue treatment while residing in a palliative care facility.
• If no, hospice care can be considered, but treatment must be stopped before arranging for hospice services.

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Will they need short-term or long-term care?

If short-term care (up to 6 months) is sufficient, hospice care can be considered. If longer-term care is required, palliative care is recommended, as hospice care is typically provided for a defined, short-term period.

Is hospice or palliative care essential for a dying loved one?

No, hospice or palliative care is not essential, but it is often recommended. Research shows that individuals who receive additional care (either hospice or palliative) generally experience a better quality of life during their final days compared to those who do not.

According to the New England Journal of Medicine, improved symptom management and stabilisation can reduce anxiety and stress for both the dying individual and their family.

"With earlier referral to a hospice program, patients may receive care that results in better symptom management, leading to stabilisation of their condition and prolonged survival."

Beyond the additional care your loved one will receive, hospice or palliative care can provide them with certainty and stability during a time that may feel overwhelming and scary. Doing everything you can to keep your loved ones comfortable and supporting your family's coping during the end-of-life period is crucial.

Making decisions when a loved one is approaching the end of their life is challenging. Discuss your options with a trained healthcare professional and make your choice based on what feels right and appropriate for the patient, their care team and yourself.

Disclaimer: The content of this article is intended to provide a general guide to the subject matter. It should not be relied upon as medical advice.