In-Home Hospice vs. Palliative Care: What’s the Difference?

Hospice and palliative care have similarities and are often confused with one another. Both in-home services offer comfort care and symptom management. However, knowing which option may be most appropriate for your loved one isn’t always obvious. Understanding the differences can help you choose the best option for care.

What is in-home hospice care?

Hospice is a program of care and support for individuals when a cure is no longer likely or the patient has chosen not to pursue aggressive curative treatment. The focus is on the patient’s quality of life. Hospice cares for the patient, as well as assists their caregivers.

What is in-home palliative care?

Palliative care is a medical specialty focused on the needs of people who are living with serious, often life-threatening illness. A physician or nurse practitioner focus on treating uncontrollable symptoms.

How do hospice care and palliative care services differ?

Hospice services provide a team equipped to handle physical, emotional, spiritual and personal care needs will visit patients as often as needed. Services include physician services, nursing care, social work, spiritual counseling, medical equipment and supplies, volunteer visits, bereavement care for families and more.

Palliative care is scheduled with a physician or nurse practitioner, typically based on a 3-5 week schedule. They will focus on treating uncontrollable symptoms.

How do I know if hospice or palliative care is right for my loved one?

If the patient’s stage of illness is…

• Serious, with declining health, hospice may be appropriate.
• Serious, but health is stable or may improve, palliative care may be appropriate.

If the patient’s long-term recovery is…

• Not probable, hospice may be appropriate.
• Possible and the patient has the potential to improve, palliative care may be appropriate.

If the patient is focused on…

• Quality of life and meeting personal goals, hospice may be appropriate.
• Seeking and continuing aggressive curative treatment, palliative care may be appropriate.

Where can I learn more about Elara Caring’s in-home services?

Contact us to learn more about hospice, palliative care and other in-home services offered in your community.

Are you a health care provider with a patient who may benefit from in-home care? You can make a secure online referral.

Interested in working at Elara Caring? View open jobs and apply online.