What is Palliative Care vs. End of Life Care?
Planning for care during a serious illness or after being diagnosed with a life-limiting condition can be very challenging. Many older adults choose hospice or palliative care to support pain management or alleviate discomfort. Nearly 2 million older adults receive hospice care or palliative care each year, and the number continues to grow. While end of life care (hospice) and palliative care are similar, there are some key differences.
It’s important for older adults to plan ahead and let their caregivers, family members and doctors or health care professionals know their care wishes in advance. Knowing the specific differences between these options can help someone decide what level of care is best to support their wishes.
Click to listen to this episode:
Tune in for insights and resources from home health and hospice professional Jackie Lleverino, Brand President – PRO Health Home Care Services and Boost Home Healthcare.
About Jackie:
Jackie Lleverino is the Brand President of Boost Home Healthcare. She has held leadership positions in home health and hospice care for over 15 years. She joined Boost Home Healthcare with an extensive background in operations and business development in the healthcare and IT industry. Jackie is passionate about providing excellent care and resources to the diverse community.
Show Notes
- Learn about the differences between palliative care and end of life care (hospice care)
- Typical services that are provided to those who are receiving palliative care or hospice care
- Ways to pay for palliative care or hospice care
- Care options for older adults when selecting these services
- Tips for caregivers to start the conversation about support to meet the care needs and end of life wishes of their loved ones
- Questions older adults and caregivers should ask their doctor or healthcare professional regarding whether palliative care or hospice care is appropriate for their condition
- Helpful resources for older adults and caregivers to access when selecting a palliative care or hospice care provider
Episode Resources
- 20 Signs Your Loved One Needs More Help
- 8 Mistakes Families Make When Looking for Senior Care
- Respite Care
- Care Compare (Medicare.gov)
- What are Palliative Care and Hospice Care (Caring.org)
- What is Palliative Care (National Institute on Aging)
- Hospice Facts and Figures (NHPCO)
- End of Life: Helping with Comfort and Care (PDF from National Institute on Aging)