MYTH:

Hospice starves people and does not care about weight loss.

 

FACT:

Hospice views eating as a factor in quality of life rather than a curative nutritional intervention. Food and fluids are always offered. Weight loss is considered part of the natural dying process.

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MYTH:

Hospice is only for the last days of life.

 

FACT:

In order for hospice care to be the most effective, hospice should be involved in the patient’s care as soon as treatment is no longer an option.

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MYTH:

Hospice provided 24 hour attendant care.

 

FACT:

Hospice care is intermittent. When 24-hour care is required, the hospice assists the family in finding placement for the patient.

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MYTH:

People who live alone are ineligible for hospice.

 

FACT:

People may live alone as long as it is safe. When it becomes unsafe hospice staff will help them arrange in home assistance or other placement.

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MYTH:

Hospice provides euthanasia to their patients.

 

FACT:

Hospice does nothing to prolong or shorten life, but allows the disease process to take its natural course.

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MYTH:

People must have a chosen a DNR (Do Not Resuscitate) to be on Hospice.

 

FACT:

While a DNR decision is not required for admission, the hospice educates the patient and family in understanding the benefits and burdens of CPR at this stage in the illness.

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