The term “HOSPICE” comes from the root word HOSPITALITY.  The concept has been around for centuries. Its earlier forms focused on shelter and rest for travelers, and later in the 19th century the concept evolved into a place of refuge for the sick and dying. Today, hospice services administer humane and compassionate care to help provide comfort for those who are suffering from incurable diseases or conditions.

The Hospice Care philosophy seeks neither to hasten death nor prolong life, but provides support through the last phases of an incurable illness so that each person can live as fully and comfortably as possible.  Hospice care (sometimes referred to as end-of-life care) focuses primarily on improving the quality of life of a terminally ill individual. The care is palliative, it is not intended to be curative, but is a philosophy aimed at relieving physical, emotional, social, and spiritual suffering. When you or a loved one is faced with a life-limiting illness, hospice care can help offer comfort, peace, and relief. 
Hospice care often takes place in the home, but can also be provided in assisted living facilities, nursing homes, hospitals, private hospice facilities, or anywhere else a patient feels comfortable. The location of the care is not important and caregivers are flexible in their ability to meet the individual needs of the patient.
The treatment strives to be holistic in nature. In the final stages of a life limiting illness the patient and their families are faced with a wide range of challenges and needs. Professional hospice care helps assure that these needs are being met and help make this difficult phase of life as pleasant as possible for the patient as well as their families.