Hospice Myths

There are many myths about Hospice Care and we’d like to dispel a couple for you.

The first myth is that Hospice Is Only for Cancer Patients

Many people believe that patients who choose to enter hospice have given up hope, but the fact is that those living with a life-limiting illness choose to re-evaluate their hopes. At one time a patient may have hoped for a cure, but now he or she might hope to live without pain. For other hospice patients, hope might mean reconnecting with an old friend or relative or taking a walk in the park. And there are others who hope to spend as much time as possible with loved ones or staying at home rather than going to the hospital or a nursing home. Hope does looks different in hospice care but it’s not lost. Our team helps patients complete goals, fulfill wishes, and maintain hope during their remaining time.

The Second Myth is Hospice Care Means Giving Up Hope

While cancer is the most common diagnosis, the fact is, according to the National Hospice and Palliative Care Organization, as of 2018, 70% of patients were admitted to hospice with non-cancer primary diagnoses such as heart disease, dementia, lung disease, and stroke. While our nurses are very skilled at managing the symptoms of cancer, they are equally skilled at managing the symptoms of many other forms of chronic illness.