Many people mistakenly believe that choosing hospice means giving up, but really, hospice focuses on providing comfort through end-of-life care. Hospice care supports individuals with life-limiting illnesses by focusing on treating the whole person and enhancing their quality of life. While hospice is not intended to cure the disease, some scientific studies have shown that patients who choose hospice may actually live longer than those who continue aggressive treatment. 

Through a holistic approach that cares for the body, mind, and soul, hospice creates an environment where patients can feel more at peace. Sometimes, that peace can extend their lives.

This blog explores why some people may outlive their original prognosis in hospice care and how choosing comfort can be a life-giving decision.

What the research says 

Several scientific studies have been conducted to examine the relationship between individuals in hospice care and those who did not receive hospice care. 

According to an article by PubMed, some people diagnosed with Congestive Heart Failure and specific types of cancers lived on average 29 days longer. A similar study published by American Family Physician saw an increased lifespan of approximately three months for those with health problems and life-limiting illnesses like lung cancer, pancreatic cancer, or metastatic melanoma. 

While it’s not guaranteed your loved one will live longer, studies show that hospice can have a positive impact on lifespan. 

How hospice can give your family member more time 

Life expectancy in hospice is determined by a multitude of factors, including: 

• Reduced hospital visits 
• Less physical stress
• Focus on quality of life and care instead of curative treatments 

If your loved one is spending a significant amount of time in and out of the hospital, they may be at greater risk of developing illnesses or infections. By spending more time at home or in a hospice facility, they can feel more comfortable in a familiar environment.

When your family member chooses to stop curative treatments, it can reduce the physical and emotional stress caused by ongoing medical procedures. Since hospice focuses on comfort care, they no longer undergo aggressive treatments that may leave them feeling weaker.

Additionally, when hospice staff shift focus to comfort care, it can improve overall physical and mental health. If your loved one’s physical, emotional, and spiritual needs are being met, they can feel more at ease, which in turn improves their quality of life. 

Hospice isn’t about giving up–it’s choosing to focus on comfort and quality of life 

By stepping away from aggressive treatment options, your loved one can spend more time doing what matters most to them. Being at home, surrounded by loved ones, and living life on their own terms can bring peace. Personalized care from their hospice care team can enhance their quality of life, offering comfort and dignity throughout their journey.

While it’s important to remember that hospice isn’t a guarantee of extended life, it gives your family members the chance to make the most out of their remaining time. For those facing a life-limiting illness, hospice is a compassionate decision focused on comfort, dignity, and control. 

Northern Illinois Hospice is here to provide compassionate end-of-life care for your loved one 

As the first hospice provider in the region, Northern Illinois Hospice has been helping people transition to hospice care for more than 45 years. Our team provides compassionate end-of-life care to individuals with life-limiting illnesses.

We honor patients and their wishes by providing specialized care that treats the person, not the disease. We offer a wide range of palliative and hospice care to improve your loved one’s quality of life in their final months.

Our experienced team of healthcare professionals, social workers, and volunteers is here to ensure your loved one’s comfort and support.

Since hospice care has so much to offer patients, families, and providers, it can be confusing at times. That’s why we created The Reading Room.

The Reading Room is a special place where people can learn and grow in their understanding of hospice and palliative care, any time and anywhere. It’s like having a whole library in the palm of your hand or with a click of your mouse. With dozens of articles and helpful how-to videos in both English and Spanish, The Reading Room can serve as another helpful guide. 

To learn more about our hospice or palliative services or how we can help you navigate end-of-life care for your loved ones, call us today at (815) 398-0500.