A specialized type of care designed to provide support and comfort to individuals with terminal illnesses, typically when curative treatment is no longer an option or desired. The primary goal of hospice care is to enhance the quality of life for patients in their final months, weeks, or days by managing symptoms and providing emotional, spiritual, and practical support.

Hospice care is holistic and patient-centered, focusing on the needs and preferences of the patient and their family. It encompasses various services, including pain and symptom management, assistance with daily activities, emotional and psychological support, spiritual care, and bereavement support for families. Care is typically provided by an interdisciplinary team that may include doctors, nurses, social workers, chaplains, counselors, therapists, and trained volunteers.

Hospice care can be provided in various settings, such as the patient’s home, hospice centers, nursing homes, or hospitals, depending on the patient’s needs and preferences. The emphasis is on creating a comfortable, dignified, and supportive environment for both the patient and their loved ones, helping them navigate the challenges of end-of-life care with compassion and respect.