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For many families, the word “hospice” can feel frightening. It may bring up emotions, worry, or a sense of finality. But hospice care is not something to fear. In fact, it exists to support individuals living with serious, incurable illnesses such as advanced Alzheimer’s, and to help their families through this time with compassion, dignity, and comfort.
Hospice care focuses on helping a person live as fully and comfortably as possible. Rather than trying to cure illness, hospice teams manage symptoms, reduce discomfort, and ensure quality of life — day by day, moment by moment.
And importantly: Choosing hospice does not mean giving up.
It means choosing support, comfort, and a better experience for your loved one and your family.
What Is Hospice Care?
A common misconception is that hospice is a location. In reality, hospice is a philosophy of care. It prioritizes comfort, dignity, and emotional well-being during the advanced stages of illness.
Hospice focuses on:
- Pain relief and symptom management
- Emotional, psychological, and spiritual support
- Respecting personal wishes and values
- Supporting family members and caregivers, too
The goal is not to prolong life or hasten death. Instead, the goal is to make each day meaningful and as comfortable as possible.
Support for the Whole Family
Hospice includes services not only for the person receiving care, but also for those who love and care for them. This may include:
- Counseling and emotional support
- Guidance with difficult decisions
- Help navigating closure and end-of-life planning
- Volunteer companions to keep your loved one company, giving caregivers time to rest or attend to personal needs
Caregiving can be emotionally and physically exhausting. Hospice acknowledges that, and provides real relief.
Where Does Hospice Care Happen?
Hospice care is flexible and personalized. It can be provided in:
- A person’s home
- Assisted living or memory care communities
- Senior living or retirement apartments
- A hospice house or care facility (if needed)
If your loved one lives in assisted living or memory care, hospice providers can come directly to them — providing additional support and medical oversight without requiring a move.
Why Hospice Care Is Often Delayed
Many families hesitate to consider hospice because they believe it means there is no hope left. But hospice is not about giving up — it is about choosing comfort and quality of life.
It is also true that:
- Some hospice patients live longer than those who do not use hospice
- Some people graduate out of hospice if their condition stabilizes
- Doctors cannot always predict how an illness will progress
Because of this, hospice can be appropriate earlier than many people think.
Hospice can be started — and stopped — at any time.
Asking Questions Is Encouraged
There are myths and misunderstandings about hospice, especially online. Asking questions early helps families avoid unnecessary stress or suffering.
Consider asking:
- What care would be provided through hospice?
- How often will the hospice nurse visit?
- How will hospice support the primary caregiver?
- How does hospice coordinate with the assisted living or memory care community?
Your care team — including your Executive Director or Registered Nurse if your loved one is in memory care or assisted living — can help you understand your options and connect you with trusted hospice care partners, including those available here in Wisconsin if applicable.
Hospice is not about dying — it is about living well during the time that remains. It offers comfort, support, and dignity, not only for the individual receiving care, but for the entire family.
If you believe your loved one may benefit from hospice, the best next step is simply to start the conversation. You don’t have to navigate this alone.