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Geriatrics & Palliative Medicine: Palliative Care vs. Hospice

An in depth look at comprehensive care for older adults and the decisions made at the end of life.

Palliative Care

Palliative Care - specialized medical care focused on improving the quality of life for individuals with serious illness.  A patient and family centered approach that addresses physical, emotional, social, and spiritual needs, aiming to relieve suffering and enhance well-being.  Palliative Care can be provided at any stage of an illness, including during treatment, and can be a part of hospice care. 

Hospice - a type of healthcare that focuses on providing comfort and support for people with terminal illnesses and their family, especially in the last stages of life.  It prioritizes symptom management, pain relief, and quality of life rather than curative treatments

Palliative Care & Hospice

National Institute on Aging