Ending Life Well
Understanding Palliative and Hospice Care What They Mean, Who They Help, and How to Choose the Right Care When serious illness touches our lives, knowing the right kind of care can make all the difference. Many people hear the terms palliative care and hospice care and wonder what they
• Team: Doctors, nurses, social workers, nutritionists, chaplains, and more, all working together to support the patient and their family. Palliative care does not mean giving up. It can begin at diagnosis and continue alongside treatment aimed at curing the illness. Adriana's Story Adriana developed anemia while she was being treated for breast cancer. A palliative care specialist suggested she get a blood transfusion to manage the anemia and relieve her fatigue. Controlling her symptoms helped Adriana to continue her curative chemotherapy treatment. Treating her anemia is part of palliative care.
mean and how they might apply to themselves or a loved one. Both forms of care focus on quality of life, dignity, and comfort, but they differ in timing, approach, and goals. This guide offers a clear overview of what each type of care provides, who benefits, and how to start important conversations about end-of-life and advance care planning. Palliative Care • Focus: Improving quality of life for people with serious illnesses. • When: Available at any stage of illness, even alongside curative treatment. • How: Manages pain and symptoms, coordinates care and supports families. • Who: Anyone with conditions including cancer, heart failure, COPD, Parkinson’s, dementia, or other serious health issues.
QUESTION
PALLIATIVE CARE
HOSPICE CARE
Who is eligible?
Anyone with a serious illness, any age. People with serious illness expected to live 6 months or less.
Can I continue treatment to cure my illness?
Yes, if you choose.
No, only comfort care is provided.
Home, hospital, assisted living or skilled nursing facility, clinic. Medicare, Medicaid, or private insur- ance (varies with plan).
Home, hospital, assisted living or skilled nursing facility, hospice center. Medicare, Medicaid, and many private insurers. As long as the person meets hospice criteria.
Where is care provided?
Who pays?
How long does care last?
As long as needed.
Page 14 | November & December 2025, Never Too Late
Pima Council on Aging
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