End of life Care

End of life Care

Many patients and their caregivers wonder about the next steps when cancer is very advanced and treatment is no longer working or has been stopped. In this section, you can find information about hospice care, what may happen when the end of life is near, and managing feelings of grief and loss.

Hospice Care

Hospice care gives people comfort and support in the last phases of a disease that cannot be cured and during end of life. It focuses on helping a person live as fully and comfortably as possible, with dignity. Knowing about what hospice care offers can help you decide if it’s right for you.

What is hospice care?

Hospice is a special kind of care that focuses on a person’s quality of life, comfort, and dignity as they near the end of life. The philosophy of hospice is that death is an important stage of life. Hospice care focuses on helping people live as fully and comfortably as possible, surrounded by their loved ones, for the time they have left.

This care is given by a team of healthcare professionals. They work together to manage symptoms, distress, and spiritual needs. You will have access to their support 24 hours a day, 7 days a week.

Hospice is also family-centered. The hospice team helps the person with cancer and their loved ones to plan care and make decisions together. They also support loved ones by helping with medical care, planning, and decision-making.

Am I eligible for hospice?

You are eligible for hospice care when cancer can no longer be controlled with treatment and you are expected to live 6 months or less. This care focuses on making your quality of life the best it can be during the last few months, weeks, or days of life. Care during this time is about making sure you are comfortable so you can spend time with people you love or do things you love. Hospice care also gives your family or loved ones extra support during this difficult time.

What is the criteria to be eligible for hospice?

A person is eligible for hospice if certain criteria are met. This includes if they are expected to live for 6 months or less if the disease takes its normal course.

What services does hospice provide?

Hospice can provide many different services that include medical care, personal hygiene or care, spiritual care, help with care planning, respite for caregivers, and bereavement support for family and loved ones. Each of these is tailored to personal needs.