Hospice care focuses on the care, comfort, and quality of life of a person with a serious illness who is approaching the end of life.

At some point, it may not be possible to cure a serious illness, or a patient may choose not to undergo certain treatments. Hospice is designed for this situation. The patient beginning hospice care understands that his or her illness is not responding to medical attempts to cure it or to slow the disease's progress.

It's important for a patient to discuss hospice care options with their doctor or local hospice. Sometimes, people don't begin hospice care soon enough to take full advantage of the help it offers. Starting hospice early, may be able to provide months of meaningful care and quality time with loved ones.